Engineering Integration Technician

Engineering Integration Technician

The Engineering Integration Technician supports the integration and installation of advanced payloads on unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) as part of an innovative, hands-on engineering team. This role focuses on mechanical and electrical integration, system checkout, and troubleshooting to ensure reliable performance of unmanned platforms used in demanding mission environments. The technician works closely with engineering staff in a fast-paced, maker-oriented culture that values craftsmanship, precision, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Integrate mechanical, electrical, and electronic components on UAS platforms in accordance with engineering drawings and specifications.
• Install, configure, and secure mission payloads such as EO/IR sensors, LiDAR systems, RF payloads, and other mission-specific equipment.
• Perform system checkouts, continuity tests, and functional tests to verify proper operation of integrated systems.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and electronic issues using diagnostic equipment, measurement devices, and established procedures.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, schematics, and blueprints to guide integration and installation work.
• Maintain accurate and detailed build records, configuration documentation, and test results for each system and payload installation.
• Follow and enforce safety, Electrostatic Discharge (ESD), and Foreign Object Debris (FOD) control procedures during all build and integration activities.
• Use hand tools, measurement instruments, and test equipment to assemble, install, and validate hardware and wiring harnesses.
• Support integration and installation of payloads on robotic and unmanned platforms, ensuring proper mechanical fit and electrical connectivity.
• Collaborate with engineers and other technicians to refine integration methods, resolve technical issues, and improve build quality.
• Assist with validation activities, including hardware verification and functional testing of integrated systems.
• Contribute to a high-tempo, maker culture by proactively identifying opportunities to enhance build processes, reliability, and efficiency.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience integrating mechanical, electrical, and electronic components on UAS platforms, robotics, or similar systems.
• Proficiency in installing and configuring mission payloads such as EO/IR sensors, LiDAR, RF systems, and related equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, schematics, and blueprints accurately.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems using diagnostic and measurement equipment.
• Skilled use of hand tools, measurement devices, and diagnostic equipment in a technical build or integration environment.
• Understanding of RF systems, sensors, or small aircraft systems and their integration on unmanned platforms.
• Experience with UAS or robotics integration in aerospace, defense, automotive, robotics, or similar technical fields (2–5 years preferred).
• Familiarity with hardware integration, electrical wiring, electronics, validation, and programming concepts related to system integration.
• Ability to maintain accurate build records and follow safety, ESD, and FOD control procedures consistently.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate degree in engineering technology, aerospace, electronics, or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• 2–5 years of experience in aerospace, defense, automotive, robotics, or similar technical fields preferred.
• UAS payload integration experience, including installation and configuration of sensors and mission equipment.
• Familiarity with telemetry systems, data links, or flight operations for unmanned or small aircraft systems.
• Understanding of RF principles, sensor integration, and small aircraft or unmanned system architectures.
• IPC or aerospace workmanship certifications are preferred and demonstrate a strong commitment to quality and industry standards.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, prototype or production environment with a strong maker and problem-solving mindset.
• Comfort working closely with engineering teams and contributing feedback to improve designs and integration processes.

Work Environment

This role is fully onsite in a dedicated engineering and production facility, working closely with the engineering team. The environment supports an up-tempo, maker culture focused on building, integrating, and testing unmanned systems and payloads. Work typically involves hands-on assembly and integration at benches and workstations equipped with hand tools, measurement instruments, and diagnostic equipment. The position follows structured safety, ESD, and FOD control procedures to protect sensitive electronics and ensure a clean, organized workspace. Standard daytime hours apply, with work scheduled on-site during regular engineering shifts. The culture emphasizes collaboration, technical excellence, and pride in delivering high-quality unmanned systems for demanding mission applications.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Madison, AL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $26.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Madison, AL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 15, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.