Flight Test Engineer III/IV
About The Position
Zone 5 Technologies is seeking experienced Flight Test Engineers to assemble, certify, and fly Group 1–4 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). The role supports planning, execution, and analysis of UAV flight tests, working with cross-functional teams to develop test plans and verify that systems meet performance, safety, and reliability standards. It requires a background in aerospace engineering, knowledge of UAS, and flight-testing experience. The position supports a weekly flight-test cadence at test ranges near San Luis Obispo, California. Occasional demonstrations at CONUS and OCONUS locations require travel. Flight testing involves significant outdoor work in varying weather conditions. The work is primarily office-based, with substantial time at test sites and possible exposure to hot, cold, and wet conditions.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- 5–8 years of experience in aerospace engineering, including at least 3–5 years in UAV flight testing or a closely related field.
- Proven experience planning and conducting flight tests for unmanned systems.
- Experience with data acquisition systems, telemetry, and flight control systems.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in flight-test software and simulation tools.
- Knowledge of FAA regulations and airworthiness standards for UAVs.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Nice To Haves
- Part 107 pilot certification.
Responsibilities
- Develop detailed flight-test plans covering objectives, methods, safety protocols, and resource requirements.
- Collaborate with design engineers, systems engineers, and software developers to define test requirements and procedures.
- Coordinate with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with aviation regulations and standards.
- Conduct pre-flight inspections and system checks to ensure UAV readiness.
- Lead or participate in flight tests, including remotely piloting UAVs when required.
- Monitor and analyze flight data in real time to assess whether test objectives are being achieved.
- Troubleshoot test issues and implement corrective actions.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret flight-test data to assess UAV performance.
- Prepare test reports documenting results, findings, and recommendations for design improvements.
- Present findings to engineering teams, management, and external stakeholders.
- Implement and enforce safety protocols throughout flight testing.
- Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for safe operations.
- Lead post-test debriefs and incorporate lessons learned into future testing.
- Contribute to developing and refining test methodologies and procedures.
- Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and UAV flight-testing best practices.
- Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to team members.
Benefits
- Competitive total compensation package.
- Comprehensive benefit package options, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and more.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Three 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
