Senior Electric Motor Propulsion Engineer
TLDR
Model and optimize drone propulsion systems from battery to propellers, integrating motor controls and ESCs.
Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in battlefield scenarios, and beyond.
About the role:
We are looking for an engineer with a focus on electric motors and propulsion systems to help model, architect, optimize, and refine the electric propulsion systems that power our drones.
How you'll make an impact:
Strong mathematical and physical understanding on motor power and loss mechanisms
Excellent knowledge on finite element method
Knowledge on motor thermal modeling
Experience on electric motor loss characterization
Knowledge on motor control theory
What makes you a good fit:
Being able to model, architect, and optimize a propulsion system, from ESCs to motors to propellers
Understanding electric motor losses and flux, develop test plans and perform measurements
Detailed motor design and optimization to optimize performance, efficiency and size
Explore and design innovative motor technologies
Create simulation model for thermal model development and system engineering
Integrate and optimize with motor control team and ESCs
Familiarity with construction and manufacturing techniques of outrunner PMSMs in the ~500W size class
End to end understanding of drone propulsion systems, from battery to ESC to motors to propellors
Obtaining FAA Part 107 certification within the first 60 days of employment is strongly encouraged for all Skydio employees and required for certain positions
Compensation: At Skydio, our compensation packages for regular, full-time employees include competitive base salaries, equity in the form of stock options, and comprehensive benefits packages. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. Relocation assistance may also be provided for eligible roles. The annual base salary range for this position is $170,000 - $277,500*. Fundamentally, we believe that equity is the key to long-term financial growth, and we ensure all regular, full-time employees have the opportunity to significantly benefit from the company's success. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to enroll in the Company’s group health insurance plans. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to receive the following benefits: Paid vacation time, sick leave, holiday pay and 401K savings plan. This position and all associated benefits are subject to applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the Company’s policies and eligibility criteria.
*Compensation for certain positions may vary based on the position’s location.
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At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces the power of diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti-discrimination laws.
For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/
Benefits
Health Insurance
Regular, full-time employees are eligible to enroll in the Company’s group health insurance plans.
401K plan
401K savings plan
Paid Time Off
holiday pay
Stock Options
equity in the form of stock options
Skydio is a pioneer in autonomous flight, building advanced drones powered by AI and computer vision. Serving a diverse range of customers from public safety agencies to military organizations, our drones provide critical real-time data to enhance safety and efficiency. With a commitment to operational excellence and innovation, Skydio is shaping the future of drone technology.
- Founded
- Founded 2014
- Employees
- 500+ employees
- Industry
- aviation & aerospace
- Funding stage
- Series C+
- Total raised
- $850M raised
- Last funding
- Raised April 2026