Director of Flight Test Operations

Grid Aero•San Leandro, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Grid.aero is seeking a Flight Test Engineer to join its small, high-impact team developing autonomous aviation systems for defense and commercial applications. Working closely with the CTO, the engineer will own the execution, instrumentation, and analysis of flight test campaigns involving full-scale and subscale UAVs. The role connects software, hardware, autonomy, and operations to produce high-quality test data, validate system performance, and deliver actionable engineering feedback. As an early hire on the flight test team, the engineer will help establish flight test processes, data validation standards, safety protocols, documentation standards, and reporting frameworks. The position works with leadership and cross-functional engineering teams to help ensure systems are robust, reliable, and mission-ready. It is onsite in San Leandro, California, with regular travel to Merced, California for flight operations and field testing; travel expenses are covered.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
Experience supporting flight tests, robotics field testing, or complex system validation.
Strong data analysis experience using Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.
Familiarity with telemetry systems, onboard instrumentation, and sensor integration.
Understanding of control systems, autonomy stacks, or robotic platforms.
Comfort working with Linux-based systems and embedded platforms.
Candidates must be U.S. persons (U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)) due to U.S. export control requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience in early-stage startups or fast-paced R&D environments.
Interest in autonomy, AI, and aviation; direct aviation experience is a plus but is not required.
Experience with fixed-wing aircraft envelope expansion and performance testing.
A degree or certificate from a Test Pilot School.

Responsibilities

Plan and execute flight test campaigns, including test cards, safety reviews, and post-flight debriefs.
Act as a Test Director or Ground Control Station crew member for ground and flight tests and related simulation rehearsals.
Own onboard and ground-based instrumentation setup for aircraft and support systems.
Validate autonomy, navigation, communication, and control system performance during live operations.
Analyze flight logs and sensor data to identify system-level behaviors, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement.
Collaborate with software, controls, and mechanical teams to connect test results with design iteration.
Establish structured flight test processes, documentation standards, and reporting frameworks.
Travel regularly to Merced, California for flight operations and field testing.