Electrical Engineer (Multiple Levels)

Hardware FYI; Alameda (CA); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Pyka is seeking an Electrical Engineer to join our experienced team. You will lead system-level and component-level design and testing across autonomous aircraft hardware, including FPGA, microprocessors, power electronics, and sensor interfaces.

You will own the full PCBA design cycle from architecture to layout, work with Manufacturing, and collaborate with Mechanical, Software, and Flight Testing teams on aircraft integration and validation. Travel up to 10% is expected.

Qualifications

• Experience designing and testing microprocessor-based circuitry.
• FPGA knowledge (low to medium speed) is a plus.
• Willingness to travel internationally up to 10%.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop complex electrical subsystems including FPGA, microprocessors, power and sensor integrations.
• Complete PCBA design cycle from architecture to PCB layout and manufacturing liaison.
• Test and validate subsystems to meet performance and reliability goals.
• Collaborate with Mechanical, Software, and Flight Testing teams on aircraft integration.
• Create and maintain design and testing documentation.

Skills

Microprocessor circuitry

FPGA design

Power electronics

Schematic PCB layout

Cross-functional collaboration

Tools

Altium

OrCAD

Allegro

Eagle

KiCad

Job description

Pyka is looking for an Electrical Engineer to join our experienced and enthusiastic team of engineers. In this role, you will be responsible for system level and component level design and testing across a wide range of subsystems.

Below is a list of current hardware projects that you will contribute to. Your roles and responsibilities will vary significantly from one week to the next.

Dual-computer flight computer with multiply redundant power distribution system for actuators and avionics

High power density motor controller (30kW ~ 100kW)

BMS/Contact controller for redundant battery system

Air data board

Electronics for spray systems

Various PCBs to streamline testing of the above hardware

Candidates who thrive in fast-paced environments working with a small team will love this role.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities

• Develop complex electrical subsystems involving FPGA, microprocessors, power, analog, and sensor integrations
• Complete the entire PCBA design cycle including architecture selection, component selection, schematic design, PCB layout, and working with manufacturers
• Test and validate subsystems to meet performance and reliability requirements
• Work with cross-functional teams (Mechanical Engineering, Software, and Flight Testing) on aircraft integration and system level testing
• Write design and testing documents

Job Requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience designing and testing microprocessor based circuitry and interfaces to various peripherals; experience with (low to medium speed) FPGA is a plus
• Experience designing power electronics systems such as DC-DC converters, BMSs, and motor controllers
• Experience designing safety critical systems, considering system redundancy as well as failure mode and effects analysis
• Familiarity with general schematic design and PCB layout tools such as Altium, OrCAD, Allegro, Eagle, KiCad, etc.
• Willingness to travel internationally for up to 10% of the time
• An inquisitive attitude with an ability to quickly and deftly research new topics and develop mastery of new subjects
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; the ideal candidate is not afraid to ask for clarification or give feedback

We understand that candidates bring different strengths and experiences, and you don’t need to meet every qualification to be considered. If this role excites you, we’d love to learn more about you. You may be a great fit even if your background doesn’t align perfectly with the list.