Aerial Systems Prototyping & Test Engineer

SiFly; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

SiFly is building a new category of vertical-takeoff, long-endurance drones and associated ground infrastructure. The role focuses on turning concepts into working hardware, assembling prototypes, and documenting failures to drive improvements.

You will work with drawings, BOMs, and test procedures, instrument systems, and build fixtures for lab and field tests. Join a fast-moving, small team to prototype, test, and refine aerospace hardware using AI-assisted methods to streamline testing, data

Qualifications

• Hands-on electromechanical build experience required.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, CAD views, BOMs, wiring diagrams, and test procedures.
• Experience with instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
• Shop fabrication of fixtures and brackets.
• Strong judgment to infer solutions beyond formal procedures.
• Meticulous record-keeping of serial numbers, configurations, and test results.
• Safety awareness around heavy assemblies and outdoor environments.
• Practical use of AI tools to improve workflows and data handling.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, integrate, rework, and maintain prototypes and test articles and related components.
• Fabricate and modify prototype components using shop tools and processes.
• Build and troubleshoot wiring harnesses and electromechanical connections.
• Instrument test articles with sensors and data acquisition equipment.
• Operate automated cycle testers and environmental setups.
• Run tests to approved procedures and safety requirements; document results.
• Record configurations, firmware versions, and observations with photos and logs.
• Identify root causes between product failures and fixture or process issues.
• Support builds, pilots, and field deployments; prepare hardware and spares for remote sites.
• Explore AI-assisted approaches to data reduction, drafting, and documentation.

Skills

Electromechanical build

Engineering drawings

Instrumentation data acquisition

Shop fabrication

Judgment

Record-keeping

Safety around heavy assemblies

AI tooling usage

Tools

CAD software

DAQ hardware

Wiring test equipment

Job description

SiFly is building a new category of vertical-takeoff, long-endurance drones and associated ground infrastructure. The role focuses on turning concepts into working hardware, assembling prototypes, and documenting failures to drive improvements.

You will work with drawings, BOMs, and test procedures, instrument systems, and build fixtures for lab and field tests. Join a fast-moving, small team to prototype, test, and refine aerospace hardware using AI-assisted methods to streamline testing, data