Junior Illustrator & Copy Editor

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.

As PDW continues to scale, we are expanding our Technical Publications team to support increasing documentation demands. We are seeking a Junior Illustrator/Copy Editor to support technical illustration, visual documentation, and copyediting across maintenance manuals, user manuals, assembly instructions, and related technical publications.

This role will work closely with technical writers and illustrators to ensure all documentation is visually accurate, consistent, and compliant with internal and regulatory standards.

What You’ll Do

• Support development of 2D technical illustrations, diagrams, and visual assets for manuals and work instructions
• Assist with documentation layout, formatting, and visual consistency across technical publications
• Perform copy editing, proofreading, and content validation to ensure clarity, grammar, and accuracy
• Conduct quality assurance (QA) reviews on documentation, including image validation and content checks
• Review and validate content for technical accuracy and usability
• Collaborate with technical writers, illustrators, and engineers to gather and refine visual and written content
• Assist in managing illustration backlog and documentation updates to improve delivery timelines
• Support cross-functional teams as needed to meet project deadlines
• Ensure adherence to documentation standards, style guides, and compliance requirements
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts to streamline workflows and reduce bottlenecks
• Translate engineering data, CAD models, schematics, and system specifications into clear, user-focused documentation.

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Digital Design, Visual Communications, or related field
• Strong interest or experience in 2D illustration, technical graphics, or visual design
• Experience with photo review, image editing, or visual content validation
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy, consistency, and quality control
• Basic understanding of copy editing, proofreading, and content review processes
• Proficiency or familiarity with tools such as: Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, or Google Workspace
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and support cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent technical writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with strong attention to clarity, consistency, and accuracy.
• Strong written communication and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting technical documentation, manuals, or structured content environments
• Experience with technical photography, including capturing high-quality images of hardware, assemblies, and procedures to support maintenance manuals, work instructions, and technical documentation
• Familiarity with technical illustration standards or engineering drawings
• Exposure to aerospace, defense, or manufacturing environments
• Experience working in Agile or collaborative team environments
• Familiarity with tools such as GitLab, SharePoint, Markup tools or JIRA

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move about regularly throughout the day, and lift/carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment, including computers, printers, and phones. Must be physically capable of walking between the office and production areas and attending events or meetings off-site as needed.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office and manufacturing environment. This role requires the use of standard office equipment and may require occasional local travel. 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 that requires cross-departmental collaboration and both independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard work hours for this position are 8:30 am-5:00 pm CT with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

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.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
• 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.