FPV Drone Technician & Assembler

T3i, Inc.; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Part time

Job summary

T3i, Inc. is seeking an FPV Drone Technician & Assembler to build and test FPV drones, handle soldering, and configure flight controllers. The role covers hardware assembly, firmware updates, and safety checks in a hands-on environment.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate proficiency with FPV software, read wiring diagrams, and perform bench tests to ensure product reliability. This is a part-time, on-site position with strict background screening requirements.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience assembling FPV drones.
• Experience using FPV programming and configuration software (Betaflight, INAV, ArduPilot, PX4).
• Strong soldering skills, including fine-pitch soldering on PCBs.
• Ability to read wiring diagrams and technical documentation.
• Basic understanding of electronics, power systems (LiPo batteries), and signal integrity.

Responsibilities

• Assemble FPV drones from frames, motors, ESCs, flight controllers, cameras, VTXs, and receivers.
• Perform precision soldering of components and wires.
• Program and configure FPV flight controllers using Betaflight, INAV, or similar.
• Flash and update firmware for flight controllers, ESCs, and receivers.
• Configure radio protocols, video transmission, and failsafe settings.
• Conduct bench testing and flight readiness checks.

Skills

FPV drone assembly

FPV software configuration

Soldering

Wiring diagrams reading

Electronics basics

Quality workmanship

Tools

Betaflight

INAV

ArduPilot

PX4

Job description

Job Summary

The FPV Drone Technician & Assembler is responsible for the assembly, configuration, programming, testing, and maintenance of FPV (First-Person View) drones. This role requires hands-on technical expertise with FPV drone hardware and software, including soldering, firmware configuration, and troubleshooting. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in soldering during the interview process.

Responsibilities

• Assemble FPV drones from individual components, including frames, motors, ESCs, flight controllers, cameras, VTXs, and receivers
• Perform precision soldering of electronic components, power leads, signal wires, and connectors
• Program and configure FPV flight controllers using industry-standard FPV programming software (e.g., Betaflight, INAV, or similar)
• Flash and update firmware for flight controllers, ESCs, receivers, and other onboard systems
• Configure radio protocols, video transmission systems, and failsafe settings
• Conduct bench testing and flight readiness checks to ensure proper functionality and safety
• Diagnose and repair hardware, electrical, and software issues
• Maintain build documentation, wiring diagrams, and configuration records
• Follow ESD, safety, and quality control standards during assembly and testing
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to improve build processes and product reliability

Required Skills and Experience

• Hands-on experience assembling FPV drones
• Experience using FPV programming and configuration software (e.g., Betaflight, INAV, ArduPilot, PX4 or similar)
• Strong soldering skills, including fine-pitch soldering on PCBs
• Ability to read wiring diagrams, assembly and sub-assembly guides and technical documentation
• Basic understanding of electronics, power systems (LiPo batteries), and signal integrity
• Strong attention to detail and quality workmanship
• Demonstration Requirement
• Soldering skills must be demonstrated during the interview process, including component-level soldering and wire management
• Candidate will be required to provide an example of their workmanship and assembly technique by bringing one of their FPV builds for review

Desired Skills and Experience

• Experience with multiple FPV/drone autopilot software and radio systems (e.g., ELRS, Crossfire, BetaFlight, ArduPilot, INAV, PX4)
• Experience PID tuning and optimizing flight performance
• Knowledge of FPV video systems (analog and digital)
• Prior experience in a production, R&D, or repair environment
• FAA Part 107 certification (preferred but not required)

Required Background Check:

Criminal Background Check (all candidates are required to complete the HireRight background check & drug screening)

Type of Employment:

Part-Time

Compensation:

$20-$26 per hour

T3i Drug Free Workplace Statement:

As a Federal Government Contractor, T3i is required to strictly adhere to federally mandated drug-free workplace standards. To ensure compliance with this requirement, T3i conducts pre-employment drug screening for all new hire personnel (full time, part time, and independent contractor) and annual random drug screening for all current T3i personnel. All drug screening includes testing for the following drugs, at a minimum: Marijuana (CBD, hemp oil, and other cannabidiol use may result in a positive result), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, 6-monoacetylmorphine, and PCP. Personnel who cannot pass drug screening are not eligible for employment with T3i.