New

AERPAW Vehicle Engineer

North Carolina State University

$105,000 - $110,000

life insurance, flexible benefit account, paid time off

United States, North Carolina, Raleigh

Jul 31, 2025

Posting Information

Posting Number	PG194199EP
Internal Recruitment	No
Working Title	AERPAW Vehicle Engineer
Anticipated Hiring Range	$105,000 - $110,000
Work Schedule	Monday - Friday, schedule determined by supervisor
Job Location	Raleigh, NC
Department	Electrical and Computer Engineering
About the Department	The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering ( ECE) is one of the top 10 suppliers of ECE talent at the BS level in the US, and also ranks in the top 10 ECE Departments in total annual research expenditures ( ASEE). The department is located in state-of-the-art facilities on NC State's Centennial Campus. The University is located in the technology-rich Research Triangle metropolitan area, and ECE faculty members collaborate routinely with local industry. The Research Triangle area is frequently recognized in nationwide surveys as one of the best places to live in the U.S. We enjoy outstanding public schools, affordable housing, and great weather, all in the proximity of the mountains and the seashore.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits	As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. What we offer: Medical, Dental, and Vision Flexible Spending Account Retirement Programs Disability Plans Life Insurance Accident Plan Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs 12 Holidays Each Year Tuition and Academic Assistance And so much more! Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties	We are seeking a skilled and innovative Autonomous Vehicle Engineer to join our team supporting the AERPAW (Platform for Advanced Wireless Research) testbed. This role is ideal for candidates with hands-on experience in autonomous systems and a passion for developing cutting-edge UAV and UGV technologies. Key Responsibilities: Design, implement, and test autonomous vehicles, including large Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) for the AERPAW testbed. Design and integrate custom payloads that are physically, electrically, and software-compatible with vehicle platforms. Maintain, upgrade, and test-fly existing autonomous vehicles to ensure operational readiness and performance. Support ongoing development and deployment of advanced vehicle systems within the testbed environment.
Other Responsibilities

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience	Require post-baccalaureate credentials or a bachelor's degree plus alternative or equivalent professional training and experience may be substituted for the advanced degree on an exceptional basis.
Other Required Qualifications	Proficiency with CAD and CAM software Proficiency operating CNC routers (or similar) and 3D printers Proficiency designing and building multicopters (large multicopters are plus) Proficiency with autopilots (ArduPilot is a plus) Proficiency with drone sensors (IMUs, barometers, magnetometers, GNSS receivers) Proficiency in documenting their work Experience running a workshop or a lab Experience flying a multicopter without GPS at over 400m using direct line of sight, FPV, and instruments. FAA Part 107 certification (or willingness to obtain one within 2 months of the start date)
Preferred Qualifications	Experience designing and building circuit boards Experience writing MAVLink programs Experience working as part of a team Experience designing and building large (>20kg) rovers A healthy touch of perfectionism
Required License(s) or Certification(s)	N/A
Valid NC Driver's License required	No
Commercial Driver's License required	No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date	07/31/2025
Anticipated Close Date	Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants	Please include as attachments a resume, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references.

Position Details

Position Number	00111047
Position Type	Exempt Professional Staff
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)	1.00
Appointment	12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather	Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events	Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID	140401 - Electrical & Computer Engineering
EEO	NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.