Flight Test Engineer
About The Position
The Entry-Level Flight Test Engineer supports the planning, execution, and analysis of component, subsystem, and system-level testing for unmanned aircraft systems. This role provides hands-on support for flight test preparation, instrumentation, data collection, troubleshooting, and documentation. This position offers exposure to a steady flight test cadence, collaboration across engineering disciplines, and regular opportunities to participate in outdoor test activities at local and remote flight test ranges. The Entry-Level Flight Test Engineer is eager to learn, comfortable working in dynamic environments, and motivated to develop strong technical and operational skills as part of a rapidly advancing UAS program.
Requirements
- B.S. in a flight/UAV related engineering field (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or similar).
- Coursework or project experience in aerospace systems, UAVs, robotics, or flight-related engineering disciplines.
- Familiarity with data acquisition systems, telemetry concepts, or controls (academic or hobby experience acceptable).
- Ability to follow structured test procedures and maintain clear documentation.
- Basic electrical and mechanical troubleshooting aptitude.
- Ability to work cooperatively with multidisciplinary teams.
- Microsoft Office (especially Word, Excel).
Nice To Haves
- Experience with UAV or RC aircraft operation.
- Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
- Exposure to environmental or system-level testing through internships or academic teams.
- Familiarity with aviation regulations or airworthiness standards applicable to unmanned systems.
- Experience analyzing engineering or flight data using MATLAB, Python, or similar tools.
Responsibilities
- Assist in reviewing design and test requirements to support development of test plans and procedures.
- Support coordination efforts with design, systems, and software engineers during test preparation activities.
- Gain familiarity with aviation regulations, safety standards, and compliance considerations relevant to UAS testing.
- Support pre-flight inspections, system checks, and readiness activities.
- Participate in ground and flight test operations alongside experienced flight test engineers and operators.
- Assist with real-time monitoring of flight data, documenting observations and deviations.
- Help troubleshoot issues that arise during testing and contribute to corrective actions under guidance.
- Collect, organize, and perform basic analysis on flight test data.
- Assist in preparing test reports, documenting results, findings, and preliminary recommendations.
- Present summarized findings to engineering teams as part of post-test reviews.
- Follow established safety protocols during all phases of testing.
- Contribute to risk assessments and mitigation plans for outdoor and remote test activities.
- Participate in post-test debriefs to help identify lessons learned and improvements.
- Support refinement of test methodologies, procedures, and tools.
- Stay informed of industry trends and evolving UAS technologies.
- Collaborate effectively across teams and contribute positively to organizational learning and test discipline maturity.
Benefits
- Matching 401(k)
- Paid PTO
- Paid holidays
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance
- Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
- HSA and FSA Options
- Critical Care Plan
- Accident Care Plan
- Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESSP)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
