Solutions Engineer, International

Company Overview

Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions.

Now, we're entering a new phase of growth and are looking for an experienced and technically skilled Solutions Engineer (International) to join our Go-to-Market (GTM) team and play a pivotal role in supporting international engagements. This customer-facing position requires advanced knowledge of unmanned systems, familiarity with unmanned Concept of Operations (CONOPS), project management skills, and a proven ability to work collaboratively with clients, internal teams, and leadership.

As a Solutions Engineer, you will leverage your in-depth expertise in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), integrated systems, and CONOPS to bridge the gap between technical capabilities and customer mission requirements. Working closely with U.S. Department of War (DoW), law enforcement, international military, and commercial customers, you will design and deliver tailored, high-quality solutions. This role includes leading technical activities from pre-sales demonstrations to post-deployment support, evaluating emerging UAS technologies, and mentoring Junior Solutions Engineers.

What You'll Do

• Apply unmanned Concept of Operations (CONOPS) to design and execute domestic and international UAS solutions aligned with customer mission requirements.
• Partner with Account Executives to support U.S. and international accounts through technical discovery, solution design, and customer-facing engagements.
• Lead technical demonstrations and field deployments of unmanned systems globally, ensuring operational safety, professionalism, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage international operational planning, including logistics coordination, customs documentation, shipping, and HAZMAT requirements for UAS equipment.
• Design and oversee scalable, efficient, and compliant unmanned solutions across multiple regulatory environments.
• Coordinate domestic and international airspace authorizations, including FAA, international Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA), and host-nation approvals.
• Support RFIs and RFPs by developing technically accurate responses that reflect international regulatory, operational, and logistical considerations.
• Lead pre-deployment, execution, and post-deployment activities for domestic and international field operations.
• Evaluate emerging UAS technologies and regulatory changes to expand PDW's global solutions portfolio.
• Mentor Junior Solutions Engineers in UAS operations, CONOPS development, international deployment planning, and compliance.
• Ensure solutions and deployments comply with ITAR, EAR, and host-nation export and data-handling requirements.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience implementing, operating, and integrating unmanned systems, including international deployments.
• Proven expertise in UAS system design, payload integration, and flight operations across varied operational environments.
• Strong experience developing and executing CONOPS for domestic and international unmanned operations.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate; experience working with international CAAs strongly preferred.
• Ability to pass FAA Class 2 Medical
• Demonstrated knowledge of international logistics, including customs clearance, shipping coordination, and HAZMAT compliance for UAS equipment.
• Advanced understanding of UAS hardware, software, payloads (LiDAR, cameras, sensors), and Ground Control Software.
• Experience supporting airspace authorization processes domestically and internationally, including host-nation coordination.
• Strong project management, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills in customer-facing environments.
• Valid driver's license, active passport, and willingness to travel domestically and internationally (50-75%).
• Demonstrated ability to operate effectively across cultures, languages, and international stakeholder groups.
• Experience working with sensitive or classified customers is preferred.
• The ability to obtain/maintain a DoD security clearance.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift/carry up to 75 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment such as computers, printers, and phones. Must be physically capable of walking between the office and production areas and attending events or meetings off-site as needed.

Work Environment
This position typically operates in an office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and will require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross-differential collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities.

ITAR Requirement

In compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders), or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation: Base salary for this role is $120,000-$150,000 per year, based on experience, plus commission, up to $50,000.

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match
• Paid Parental Leave
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options
• On-site fitness center.

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.