---
title: 'Electrical Engineer V/VI at Zone 5 Technologies'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/electrical-engineer-v-vi-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-ewfxc5yh9ef5'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-11-10'
---

# Electrical Engineer V/VI at Zone 5 Technologies

- **Company:** Zone 5 Technologies
- **Location:** San Luis Obispo, CA
- **Compensation:** $199k–$284k
- **Posted:** 2026-06-08
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-11-10
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies/jobs/5251620008

## Job description

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in precision weapons and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Our team of engineers and innovators are developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions to deliver affordable and scalable precision weapons, interceptors, and UAS.

We're building the next generation of munitions and unmanned systems for the United States and its allies. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on defense technology, you belong here.

The Electrical Engineer V/VI is a senior-level role focused on leading the development and optimization of complex electrical systems for UAS platforms. This position includes driving innovation in circuit design, leading cross-disciplinary projects, and mentoring junior engineers to ensure the delivery of high-quality systems.

Responsibilities:

- Leadership in Electrical Design: Lead the design, development, and testing of advanced electrical systems for UAS platforms.

- Project Management: Oversee small-to-large-scale electrical engineering projects, ensuring on-time and high-quality deliverables.

- Advanced Circuit Development: Develop and debug complex microcontroller systems, circuits, and power supply designs.

- Wire Harness Production: Oversee and optimize wire harness production and documentation, utilizing Altium.

- System Integration: Collaborate with mechanical and software engineers to ensure seamless integration of electrical systems.

- Troubleshooting Expertise: Diagnose and resolve advanced circuit issues and provide guidance to junior engineers.

- Flight Test Support: Lead electrical system integration and testing for UAS flight tests.

- Mentorship: Train and mentor junior engineers, fostering a collaborative and innovative engineering environment.

- Compliance and Documentation: Ensure all designs meet industry standards and maintain detailed technical documentation.

Qualifications:

- Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.

- Experience: 10+ years of experience in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years in UAS or aerospace systems.

- Skills:

- Expertise in Altium and circuit design tools.

- Advanced knowledge of analog and digital circuits, power systems, and CAN bus communication.

- Proven ability to address and close non-conformance issues.

- Strong leadership and project management skills.

- Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.

- Preferred Qualifications:

- Experience in production environments and avionics systems.

- Proven track record of leading successful UAS-related electrical projects.

- Knowledge of advanced electrical testing procedures and tools.

Pay Range by level for San Luis Obispo, CA

Level V - $199,000 - $248,000

Level VI - $248,000 - $284,000

## #LI-CR1

Pay range for this role $199,000—$284,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits:

- Competitive total compensation package
- Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
- 401k with company-match
- 3 weeks of paid time off each year
- 40 hours of sick time
- 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

- Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
- Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
- Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

## About Zone 5 Technologies

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Zone 5 Technologies develops advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and next-generation munitions for U.S. Department of Defense customers, with a focus on modular, open-architecture designs and rapid prototyping.
- **Entity Type**: Private (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace; prior to acquisition was privately held)
- **Headquarters**: San Luis Obispo, California, United States
- **Founded**: 2011
- **Founders**: Not publicly available

## Core Business
- **Primary Industry**: Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing; Defense Technology
- **Target Customers**: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), and allied military forces (B2G)
- **Mission Statement**: "Create the future" – focused on enabling modularity, collaboration, and rapid deployment of unmanned systems and munitions.

## Products & Services
- **Paladin UAS**: A multi-mission, TAK-integrated unmanned aircraft system that serves as an autonomous wingman. Capabilities include counter-UAS interception, precision munitions drop, and rifle takedowns. Listed on the DIU Blue UAS Refresh list, ensuring NDAA compliance and cybersecurity. (Hardware + Software)
- **White Spike Interceptor**: A modular, open-C2 missile and launcher system available in surface‑ and air‑launched configurations. Designed for counter-UAS and precision strike missions. (Hardware + Software)
- **Air Launched Effects (ALE)**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered effects for affordable mass and precision strike from mobility, bomber, and tactical aircraft. (Hardware + Software)
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Low‑cost containerized missile systems, including the Extended Range Attack Munition. (Hardware)
- **Engineering Services / R&D**: End‑to‑end system development including CONOPS, vehicle design, avionics, embedded hardware/software, ground control stations, and mission planning software.

## Market Standing
- **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not publicly disclosed (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace)
- **Key Metric**: Total headcount of 183 (LinkedIn, 2026‑07), representing +241.1% year‑over‑year growth
- **Notable Investors/Partners**: Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (acquirer); DIU (multiple contract awards); U.S. Air Force
- **Growth Signals**:
  - 241% headcount growth in the last year
  - Selected for multiple DoD/DIU programs: Blue UAS Refresh, Low‑Cost Containerized Missiles, Counter UAS Next, Extended Range Attack Munition, Enterprise Test Vehicle
  - 108 active job postings (260% year‑over‑year increase)
  - 13,284 LinkedIn followers (+62% yearly)

## Competitive Advantages
- **Vertical Integration**: Concept‑to‑production capability – design, manufacturing, testing, and sustainment in‑house.
- **Open Systems / Modularity**: MOSA/WOSA architectures enable rapid adaptation of vehicles, sensors, and weapons.
- **Blue UAS Listing**: Provides an Authority to Operate (ATO) for all DoD operators, a key differentiator for government contracts.
- **Flight‑Proven Hardware**: Paladin and White Spike have undergone extensive flight testing (SIL, HIL, flight tests).
- **Agile Prototyping**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered designs allow for fast iteration and unit‑cost discipline.

## Strategic Focus
- **Expanding DoD & Allied Contracts**: Leveraging recent DIU and Air Force wins to secure production orders for Paladin, White Spike, and missile systems.
- **Scaling Workforce & Capabilities**: Rapid hiring across engineering (GNC, embedded, avionics, flight test) to support increasing program loads.
- **International Expansion**: Acquisition by Kongsberg may open access to NATO and allied markets.
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Emphasis on affordable mass – developing low‑cost missiles for high‑volume procurement.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture & Ratings**: Employer rating 4.2/5 on LinkedIn (based on 8 reviews); Work‑Life 4.0, Compensation 3.6, Culture 3.4, Career 3.8.
- **Growth Opportunity**: 108 open positions across software, hardware, flight test, and manufacturing – strong upward mobility in a rapidly expanding company.
- **Technical Environment**: Tech stack includes Python, MATLAB, C++, CUDA, PyTorch, Docker, Kubernetes, PostgreSQL, React, GitLab, Jenkins, and more – modern engineering tools.
- **Mission‑Driven Work**: Directly contribute to defense technology that is fielded today (Blue UAS, interceptor programs).
- **Location**: San Luis Obispo, CA – a vibrant college town near the Central Coast with outdoor lifestyle.
- **Hybrid/Remote**: Not specifically stated; most roles appear on‑site at one of three U.S. offices (San Luis Obispo, Fort Walton Beach FL, Fort Worth TX).

## Sources
1. [LinkedIn – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.linkedin.com/company/zone-5-technologies)
2. [Company Website – zone5tech.com](https://www.zone5tech.com/)
3. [Greenhouse Careers Page](http://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies)
4. [robotics.press – Company Profile](https://robotics.press/news/zone-5-technologies-company-profile/)
5. [YouTube – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.youtube.com/@Zone5Technologies)

## Other roles at Zone 5 Technologies

- [Recruiter - Production & Manufacturing](https://feeny.ai/job/recruiter-production-manufacturing-zone-5-technologies-fort-worth-dmj50erga4g4) — Fort Worth, TX / San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Flight Test Site Manager](https://feeny.ai/job/flight-test-site-manager-zone-5-technologies-united-states-g55qawthhzgh) — United States
- [Supply Chain Director](https://feeny.ai/job/supply-chain-director-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-v0n6552haaw6) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Procurement Director](https://feeny.ai/job/procurement-director-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-ep812aqwwey2) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Industrial Security Analyst II/III](https://feeny.ai/job/industrial-security-analyst-ii-iii-zone-5-technologies-fort-worth-pdjdaqxb36n2) — Fort Worth, TX
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