Senior Technical Recruiter

Company Overview
Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by 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 a Senior Technical Recruiter to serve as a foundational member of our Denver, CO location. This role will partner directly with engineering, R&D, and executive leadership to define hiring strategy, shape early team composition, and attract top-tier talent across hardware, software, embedded, and systems engineering disciplines.

What You'll Do

• Own end-to-end recruiting for complex engineering roles, including Software Engineers, Hardware Engineers, Embedded Engineers, and Mechanical Engineers
• Partner with Engineering Managers, Technical Leads, and Program Managers to develop robust hiring plans
• Conduct in-depth technical interviewing & screening
• Manage multiple requisitions simultaneously across different disciplines and seniority levels

• Proactively source senior and niche engineering talent
• Build and maintain long-term talent pipelines for critical engineering skill sets
• Develop competitive sourcing strategies for hard-to-fill roles
• Partner with leadership on workforce planning and future hiring needs
• Manage candidate flow and pipeline health in the ATS with high attention to detail
• Identify opportunities to improve recruiting efficiency, candidate experience, and interview quality
• Ensure a consistent, professional candidate experience from first contact through offer and onboarding

Requirements

• 6+ years of technical recruiting experience, with a strong focus on engineering roles
• Demonstrated experience recruiting across hardware, software, and embedded systems
• Proven ability to screen and evaluate highly technical engineering candidates
• Experience partnering with senior engineering leaders and hiring managers
• Strong sourcing skills for passive, senior-level engineering talent
• Ability to manage multiple complex requisitions in parallel
• Excellent communication, organization, and stakeholder management skills

Preferred

• Experience recruiting in aerospace, defense, robotics, automotive, or advanced manufacturing
• Experience recruiting for regulated or compliance-driven environments
• Prior experience in high-growth or scaling engineering organizations

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, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as manufacturing and test equipment, industrial computers, HMIs, and handheld diagnostic tools. Must be physically capable of walking production floors, accessing equipment in constrained spaces, participating in factory acceptance testing, and supporting on-site system deployments.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and may involve exposure to manufacturing equipment, automated machinery, test systems, and industrial materials. 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-departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard work hours for this position are 8:30am-5:00pm, Monday through Friday, with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

ITAR Requirement

In compliance with International Traffic 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).

Benefits

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.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

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.