Senior Electric Motor Propulsion Engineer

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. 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.

Responsibilities

Model, architect, and optimize a propulsion system, from ESCs to motors to propellers; Understand electric motor losses and flux, develop test plans and perform measurements; Perform 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

Requirements

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

Nice to have

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 propellers; Obtaining FAA Part 107 certification within the first 60 days of employment is strongly encouraged for all Skydio employees and required for certain positions

Benefits

Equity in the form of stock options; Group health insurance plans; Paid vacation time; Sick leave; Holiday pay; 401K savings plan; Relocation assistance may be provided for eligible roles