UAS Test Pilot, EP

Firestorm•San Diego, CA

4d•$92,000 - $121,000•Onsite

About The Position

Firestorm Labs is seeking a driven and experienced UAS Test Pilot, Emergency Pilot (EP) to join our Flight Test Team. In this high-impact individual contributor role, you'll support flight operations across the full lifecycle of our UAVs, with a focus on aircraft readiness, safe execution, and operational reliability. From build validation and flight testing to field deployment and customer demonstrations, you will pilot UAVs, perform safety pilot duties, assist in test event planning, and help ensure all operations meet rigorous safety and regulatory standards. You’ll be a key contributor to maintaining fleet readiness and supporting flight test execution, working closely with engineering, flight operations, and integration teams. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced, cross-functional environments and enjoys working hands-on with complex, autonomous systems. You’ll play a critical role in ensuring our UAVs are prepared, reliable, and mission-ready in real-world conditions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field; may substitute equivalent hands-on experience in lieu of a degree
Minimum 5 years of experience piloting fixed-wing Group 1-3 UAS, including autonomous, and/or remotely piloted systems
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required
U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
Experience serving as RPIC and/or Safety Pilot in flight operations
Familiarity with flight documentation including checklists, test cards, and post-flight reports
Hands-on experience building, modifying, or maintaining UAS or RC aircraft systems
Strong understanding of flight operations, safety procedures, and airspace coordination
Experience working cross-functionally with engineering and operations teams
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
Strong technical writing skills for documentation, SOPs, and manufacturing procedures
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Nice To Haves

7+ years of experience piloting fixed-wing Group 1-3 UAS, including autonomous, and/or remotely piloted systems
Experience supporting or participating in defense or military flight test environments
Familiarity with UAS simulation tools and environments used in autonomous systems development
Working knowledge of FAA Part 91 and relevant military airspace regulations
Background in startup or high-growth environments

Responsibilities

Pilot fixed-wing UAVs in support of flight testing, training, and operational activities
Perform Safety Pilot duties during test and evaluation of new and existing UAS platforms
Ensure aircraft are flight-ready through pre-flight validation, configuration checks, and functional verification
Conduct Functional Check Flights (FCF) as needed to validate aircraft readiness
Partner with Flight Test Engineers and Test teams to support flight test planning and execution
Maintain continuous readiness and accountability of assigned UAS fleet and support equipment
Support end-to-end logistics for demos, deployments, and field exercises, including transport and setup
Track aircraft status, maintenance needs, and configuration control across platforms
Perform basic troubleshooting, maintenance, and coordination of repairs to ensure operational availability
Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, airspace requirements, and internal flight safety standards
Coordinate with test ranges and internal stakeholders to support safe and efficient operations
Collect and document flight data, observations, and discrepancies; provide actionable feedback to Engineering and R&D
Maintain accurate records of flight operations, maintenance, and training activities
Support training of pilots and operators on procedures, safety protocols, and system operation
Respond to operational needs in dynamic environments, ensuring mission success and fleet availability
Continuously identify opportunities to improve safety, readiness, and operational execution

Benefits

We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
Equity grants for new hires
Unlimited PTO
Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
Generous Parental Leave
Lifestyle Spending Account
FSA
DCFSA
HSA
Hospital Indemnity insurance
Critical Illness insurance
Accident insurance
Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.