Senior Motor Control Engineer

Role Overview

Pyka is looking for a Sr. Motor Control Engineer to join our experienced and enthusiastic team of engineers. In this role, you will be responsible for system level and component level design and testing across a wide range of subsystems. Below is a list of current hardware projects that you will contribute to. Your role s and responsibilities will vary significantly from one week to the next.

• High power density motor controller (30kW ~ 100kW)
• Electronics for airplane spray and pump system
• Air data board
• Various PCBs to streamline testing of the above hardware

Candidates who thrive in fast‑paced environments working with a small team will love this role.

• Familiar with high power motor controller hardware design (120V, 30 kW). Able to select key components and sensors for the motor controller based on system requirements.
• Hands‑on experience in embedded system designs and familiarity with writing C or C++ code for microprocessor based embedded systems.
• Deep understanding of different motor control algorithms such as field oriented control (FOC), six step control and different modulation schemes such as SPWM (Sinusoidal Pulse Width Modulation) and SVPWM (Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation).
• Complete the entire PCBA design cycle including architecture selection, component selection, schematic design, PCB layout, and working with manufacturers.
• Test and validate the design to meet performance and reliability requirements.
• Work with cross‑functional teams (Mechanical Engineering, Software, and Flight Testing) on aircraft integration and system level testing.
• Occasional travel (approximately one week every 2-3 months) to customer sites to support new aircraft deployments or EE subsystem debugging.
• Write design and testing documents.

• 3-7 years of hands‑on experience designing and testing microprocessor based high power motor controller for EVs or electric aircrafts.
• Experience designing power electronics systems such as motor controllers, DC‑DC converters, and BMS.
• Experience designing safety critical systems, considering system redundancy as well as failure mode and effects analysis.
• Familiarity with general schematic design and PCB layout tools such as Altium, OrCAD, Allegro, Eagle, KiCad, etc.
• Willingness to travel internationally for up to 10% of the time.
• An inquisitive attitude with an ability to quickly and deftly research new topics and develop mastery of new subjects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; the ideal candidate is not afraid to ask for clarification or give feedback.
• We understand that candidates bring different strengths and experiences, and you don’t need to meet every qualification to be considered. If this role excites you, we’d love to learn more about you. You may be a great fit even if your background doesn’t align perfectly with the list.

• $143, per year base salary + equity. Compensation will vary depending on location, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. Salary ranges are subject to change.
• Employer‑sponsored health, dental and vision insurance.
• FSA with employer matching.
• 401(k).
• Paid holidays, generous PTO, and additional unpaid time off.
• Voluntary short‑term disability, long‑term disability, and life insurance.
• Pre‑tax commuter benefits.
• Free catered lunch and plenty of snacks.