Ground Test Operator, Esparto (Contract-to-Hire)

Zipline•Esparto, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Zipline is the world’s largest and most experienced drone delivery service, aiming to serve all humans equally by ensuring access to food, medicine, and essential goods. They design, build, and operate the world’s largest autonomous logistics system, making deliveries on four continents and completing millions of deliveries. Zipline's system strengthens supply chains, reduces congestion, and gives people time back. The company operates at a global scale and seeks practical problem solvers motivated by building systems with a meaningful impact and scaling the future of logistics. They are looking for individuals who sculpt from first principles, enjoy facing adversity, and can achieve the impossible at record speeds. This role supports the flight testing and operational validation of autonomous delivery aircraft in a high-tempo test environment. The Ground Test Operator will execute test procedures, prepare delivery packages, operate ground infrastructure, and coordinate with engineering, flight operations, and maintenance teams for safe and reliable testing. The role also involves supporting the installation and servicing of Zipping Point Autokiosk systems, aircraft ground handling, and incident response operations. Deployments to mobile or remote test sites may be required to support field testing and large-scale operational campaigns.

Requirements

Strong attention to detail and ability to follow operational procedures in a safety-critical environment
Ability to work outdoors
Ability to work any shift and any day of the week to support continuous flight test operations

Nice To Haves

Experience in aviation, UAV operations, or flight test environments
Familiarity with autonomous systems or robotics platforms
Experience operating industrial or heavy equipment such as forklifts, lifts, or other machinery
Experience troubleshooting mechanical or operational systems

Responsibilities

Prepare, label, and process test packages for partner operational validation.
Load test packages through automated kiosks and Zipping Point infrastructure.
Safely move Zip aircraft around the test site between docks, operational areas, and maintenance facilities.
Install, inspect, and maintain Zipping Point Autokiosk systems to ensure operational readiness.
Support flight operations in capacities such as Visual Observer, Zipping Point Operator, or Technician.
Respond to operational incidents, including aircraft or field equipment recovery and assisting with safety containment procedures.
Identify and document operational issues.
Collaborate with engineering teams to support troubleshooting efforts.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of procedures, testing workflows, and operational documentation.