Autonomous UAS Integration Technician - Prototype Focus

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 34,853 - 68,880; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Medical, dental, vision

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD seeks an experienced UAS Integration Technician to build, modify, and test autonomous aerial systems. You will work with engineers to translate CAD models and wiring diagrams into functioning hardware, performing hands-on assembly and checkouts in a multidisciplinary team.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma, practical fabrication and electronics skills, and a track record of reliable hardware.

Qualifications

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Have hands-on experience as a technician in aerospace, aviation, robotics, or related fields.
• Have built, modified, repaired, or maintained mechanical or electrical systems.
• Demonstrate workmanship in soldering, crimping, wiring, and inspection.
• Understand electronics, computer hardware, hand tools, and safe work around prototype hardware.
• Capable of transforming sketches or CAD concepts into working hardware.
• Capable of documenting work using standard office software.

Responsibilities

• Build, modify, integrate, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain prototype UAS and ground support equipment.
• Collaborate with engineers to turn CAD models and wiring diagrams into functioning hardware.
• Perform hands-on mechanical and electrical integration of UAS platforms and payloads.
• Fabricate and modify airframe components using composites and machines.
• Identify buildability and safety issues early and propose improvements.
• Support testing by preparing vehicles, conducting pre-flight checks, and returning systems to test-ready condition.
• Assist engineers with system checkout and diagnostics using standard tools and software.
• Maintain laboratories and inventories, ensuring calibration and availability.
• Document build configurations, deviations, repairs, and lessons learned.

Skills

Hands-on fabrication

Soldering

Crimping

Wiring

Electrical systems

Mechanical assembly

CAD interpretation

Documentation

Lab safety

Testing and troubleshooting

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical degree or related certification

Tools

CNC machinery

Laser cutters

3D printers

Waterjets

SolidWorks

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD seeks an experienced UAS Integration Technician to build, modify, and test autonomous aerial systems. You will work with engineers to translate CAD models and wiring diagrams into functioning hardware, performing hands-on assembly and checkouts in a multidisciplinary team.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma, practical fabrication and electronics skills, and a track record of reliable hardware.