Crew Chief - Flight Test
About The Position
Zone 5 Technologies is seeking an experienced Crew Chief to provide maintenance support for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and related DoD projects. The role supports weekly flight tests at test ranges near San Luis Obispo, California, as well as occasional demonstrations at domestic and international locations that require travel. Flight maintenance involves significant outdoor work in varied weather conditions. The Crew Chief supports preparation and execution of UAS ground and flight test operations, including aircraft inspections, servicing, equipment transport, support vehicle and ground support equipment maintenance, camera system setup, and weight-and-balance activities. The role also supports integration and troubleshooting of aircraft systems, operates ground control stations, and monitors telemetry during test missions under engineer or pilot supervision.
Requirements
- Associate’s degree in Aerospace, Avionics, Electrical, or Mechanical Technology; equivalent hands-on training; or an A&P Mechanic’s License.
- At least 3 years of experience in UAV operations, military or general aviation aircraft service or maintenance, or defense flight test environments.
- Knowledge of aircraft subsystems, including avionics, flight controls, telemetry, and propulsion.
- Familiarity with flight line operations and ground support equipment (GSE).
- Ability to read and interpret basic wiring diagrams, schematics, and test documentation.
- Physically capable of lifting 50 pounds and working in outdoor field test conditions.
- Ability and willingness to travel up to 50%.
Nice To Haves
- Experience supporting DoD UAV platforms or autonomous aircraft.
- Knowledge of data acquisition and telemetry systems.
Responsibilities
- Perform routine pre-flight and post-flight inspections, fueling, flight control rigging, and aircraft servicing.
- Prepare and transport test equipment, spares, and tools for flight test operations at local and remote locations.
- Conduct basic maintenance and servicing of support vehicles.
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot ground support systems and equipment, including aircraft support and towing equipment.
- Install, configure, and maintain airborne and ground-based camera systems used for flight test data capture.
- Assist with aircraft weight-and-balance calculations and ensure proper loading for flight operations.
- Apply proper load distribution practices to trailers during packout and transport.
- Prepare and execute ground and flight test operations for unmanned aircraft systems, including pre-flight and post-flight inspections.
- Support integration of avionics, propulsion, payloads, and autonomy systems onto UAV platforms.
- Operate ground control stations and monitor flight telemetry during test missions under engineer or pilot supervision.
- Perform troubleshooting, corrective maintenance, and hardware swaps during rapid test cycles.
Benefits
- 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.
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
