UAS Fabrication Technician: Build & Integrate Drones

Systems Planning and Analysis; Bowie (MD); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking an entry-level UAS Builder to work full-time on-site in Bowie, MD. You will build Group 1–3 UAS from airframe to wiring and avionics, under supervision of flight crews and engineers.

Prior piloting experience is not required. Responsibilities include fabricating structures, wiring harnesses, and integrating flight control systems, calibrating sensors, and testing aircraft performance.

Qualifications

• Two years of hands-on RC aircraft/UAS build experience or equivalent.
• Two years of UAS maintenance or aviation electronics experience.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and parts lists.
• Proficiency with hand and power tools, and accurate assembly.
• Experience with carbon fiber and fiberglass layups and repair.

Responsibilities

• Build, assemble, and integrate fixed-wing and multirotor UAS using drawings and wiring diagrams.
• Fabricate and repair aircraft structures with composite materials and 3D-printed parts.
• Assemble wiring harnesses and power distribution systems; solder and crimp as needed.
• Install battery systems with safe handling, charging, and storage practices.
• Install and integrate flight control systems, GPS, telemetry, RC, and payload subsystems.
• Configure ArduPilot and PX4 firmware; calibrate sensors and ESCs.
• Test aircraft systems including motor thrust, current draw, controls, and failsafes.
• Document test results and support flight tests with crew.
• Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair airframes after incidents; review logs.

Skills

UAS assembly

Soldering

Engineering drawings

Hand tools

Power tools

Composite fabrication

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

RC aircraft experience

Verbal/written communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

UAS/aviation maintenance program

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

IPC certification / other avionics certs

Tools

SolidWorks

Fusion 360

3D printing

Calipers

Multimeters

Torque drivers

Job description

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking an entry-level UAS Builder to work full-time on-site in Bowie, MD. You will build Group 1–3 UAS from airframe to wiring and avionics, under supervision of flight crews and engineers.

Prior piloting experience is not required. Responsibilities include fabricating structures, wiring harnesses, and integrating flight control systems, calibrating sensors, and testing aircraft performance.