Internal UAV Pilot - Flight Test and Validation

ESP Engineered; Karnataka; On-site; INR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

ESP Engineered in Karnataka, India is looking for an experienced Internal UAV Pilot for flight test and validation of UAV platforms. This role involves executing test flights and collaborating with engineering teams to ensure operational readiness. Candidates should have extensive experience in UAV piloting, knowledge of Pixhawk and QGroundControl, and possess a related degree.

The ideal applicant will demonstrate superior decision-making skills and the ability to thrive in high-pressure environments.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of hands-on UAV piloting and flight test experience.
• Proven expertise with UAV flight operations and testing.
• Current DGCA UAV pilot certification or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Perform UAV flight testing across diverse platforms.
• Develop and execute complex missions using ground control software.
• Conduct comprehensive pre-flight readiness checks.

Skills

UAV piloting

Flight testing

Pixhawk expertise

QGroundControl

Telemetry knowledge

Decision-making under pressure

Education

Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Pixhawk

PX4 firmware

Mission Planner

Job description

Internal UAV Pilot - Flight Test and Validation

3-5

Full-Time

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Internal UAV Pilot to be a key contributor in the validation and operational readiness of our cutting‑edge UAV platforms. This pivotal role involves the expert execution of test flights, rigorous system validation, and close collaboration with our integration, engineering, and testing teams to uphold the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Expertly perform UAV flight testing across diverse platforms, including multirotor, fixed-wing, and hybrid systems.
• Develop, plan, and execute complex missions using advanced ground control software such as QGroundControl and Mission Planner.
• Operate and configure UAVs utilizing industry‑standard Pixhawk flight controllers and PX4 firmware.
• Meticulously configure and optimize flight parameters, robust failsafe protocols, and precision mission waypoints.
• Conduct comprehensive pre‑flight readiness checks and detailed post‑flight performance analysis.
• Diagnose and proficiently troubleshoot flight anomalies, performing essential on‑site UAV maintenance and calibration.
• Maintain impeccable flight logs, detailed test documentation, and contribute to standard operating procedures.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electronics, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• 3–5 years of demonstrated, hands‑on UAV piloting and flight test experience.
• Proven expertise with Pixhawk, PX4, QGroundControl, and Mission Planner environments.
• In‑depth understanding of complex UAV systems architecture, telemetry, and advanced communication links.
• Exceptional capability to execute both fully autonomous and precise manual flight operations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in high‑stakes defence or demanding industrial UAV flight operations.
• Solid foundational knowledge of RF systems, antenna theory, and communication link optimization.
• Current DGCA UAV pilot certification (India) or an equivalent international certification.

Soft Skills

• Superior situational awareness, rapid decision‑making ability, and a strong commitment to safety.
• Proven ability to perform effectively and maintain composure in dynamic, high‑pressure environments.
• Excellent technical communication, documentation, and collaborative teamwork skills.
• Comprehensive Flight Test Reports and accurate flight logs.
• Detailed Performance Validation and System Compliance Reports.
• Systematic Issue Tracking and Resolution Documentation.
• Guaranteed safe, compliant, and efficient execution of all UAV missions.