AV · 5 hours ago
Hardware Engineer II
AeroVironment is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems and tactical missile systems, seeking a highly skilled Hardware Engineer II to join their team in San Diego. The role focuses on hardware repair, warranty, and service activities, while also supporting manufacturing readiness and technology improvements by designing and developing new components and techniques.
AerospaceAir TransportationDronesElectric VehicleElectronicsEnergyGovernmentManufacturing
Responsibilities
Receive, log, and triage incoming hardware returns, defective units, and upgrade requests
Perform detailed diagnostics and troubleshooting to isolate faulty subsystems or components (mechanical, electrical, firmware, connectivity, etc.)
Repair assemblies, connectors, cables, sensors, mechanical subassemblies, etc
Support production team by performing firmware updates, calibration, alignment, burn-in, and validation testing after repair
Collaborate with engineering (mechanical, electrical, systems) to obtain schematics, test procedures, engineering change notices (ECNs), and tolerances
Implement corrective modifications or retrofits as directed (e.g. engineering change orders)
Refurbish, rework, or upgrade units per specification or customer request
Document repair steps, root causes, and lessons learned; maintain repair logs and databases
Provide input to failure analysis and continuous improvement programs
Ensure all repairs adhere to quality, safety, and regulatory requirements (e.g. ESD control, cleanroom, certification, internal standards)
Maintain spare parts, consumables, and tooling inventory relevant to repair operations
Suggest process optimizations, tooling improvements, and test fixture enhancements
Occasionally assist engineering with prototype debug, mechanical modifications, or system-level integration tasks as needed
Qualification
Required
Associate's degree (or equivalent trade school training) in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Mechatronics, or equivalent technical discipline (or strong equivalent hands-on experience)
At least 5–7 years of experience in hardware repair, technical debugging, or defect analysis in an electronics / systems environment
Strong mechanical aptitude; proficient with hand tools associated with electronics unit assembly and repair
Strong electronics troubleshooting skills. (Proficient with the use of multimeters.)
Experience with soldering and connector rework
Familiarity with system-level and functional testing
Experience reading schematics, block diagrams, mechanical drawings, and understanding system integration
Ability to isolate mechanical, electrical, and firmware faults, and correlate symptoms to root cause
Excellent hands-on skills, attention to detail, and methodical approach to debugging
Strong documentation, communication, and general computer skills
Ability to work closely with engineering staff, accept direction, and follow test procedures and change control
Ability to manage multiple repair tasks concurrently and meet throughput goals
Commitment to quality, safety, and process discipline (e.g. ESD protocols, clean environment)
This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”)
Preferred
Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Mechatronics, or equivalent technical discipline (or strong equivalent hands-on experience)
Experience with the assembly and repair of ruggedized / hardened computer systems (e.g., MILSTD, vibration, EMC, harsh environment electronics)
Experience with failure analysis tools (microscope, thermal imaging)
Experience with mechanical repair or alignment (e.g. micromechanics, precision assemblies)
Experience debugging electronics systems
Familiarity with version control, defect tracking systems, and repair databases
Prior exposure to manufacturing test, acceptance test, or field-return programs
Certification(s) such as IPC soldering, IPC rework, or other electronics repair credentials
Prior work in aerospace, medical, defense, or rugged electronics industries
Benefits
Medical
Dental vision
401K with company matching
A 9/80 work schedule
A paid holiday shutdown
Company
AV
At AV, we build shoulder-to-shoulder with our customers, delivering systems shaped by real-world missions, not theoretical requirements.
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$1.68B2025-07-01Post Ipo Equity· $875M
2025-07-01Post Ipo Debt· $650M
2023-09-19Post Ipo Equity· $109.01M
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