Autonomous Flight Test Pilot

Pyka Inc.; California, Northern (MO, KY); Hybrid; USD 47,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k)

Paid time off

Equity eligibility

Free catered lunch

Job summary

Pyka Inc. is seeking a Flight Test Operator to advance autonomous aircraft operations and scale testing across our California sites. You’ll validate new hardware and software while supporting customer deployments globally.

The role requires hands-on testing of aircraft and ground systems, collaboration with engineering teams, and the ability to relocate to locations as needed to support programs.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of experience flying fixed wing UAVs / model aircraft or large multirotors.
• Experience with ground control and mission planning software.
• 1–5 years of experience working with and troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems.
• Basic high voltage safety knowledge and comfortable working on 120 VDC, 20 ~ 30 kW systems.
• Knowledge of aircraft systems, maintenance, and manuals.
• Independent and motivated, able to self-direct and manage time.
• Extreme thoroughness and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Located in Solano or Contra Costa County.
• Part 61 pilot certificate.

Responsibilities

• Execute continuous operations at Pyka’s test sites by identifying and troubleshooting issues, with the remote help of Pyka’s engineering teams.
• Conduct reliability test campaigns with Pyka’s autonomous aircraft and ground support infrastructure.
• Provide detailed technical feedback to operations and engineering teams to improve Pyka’s product for customer deployment.
• Fly and test new hardware and software features.
• Conduct diverse fleet site maintenance activities, involving the aircraft itself and ground infrastructure.
• Serve as Pilot In Command or Ground Control Operator of experimental / developmental unmanned aircraft.
• Option to deploy customer test sites to support Agricultural and Cargo Operations.

Skills

UAV flight experience

Ground control software

Electrical/mechanical troubleshooting

Part 61 pilot certificate

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Self-directed

Safety awareness

Job description

Pyka Inc. is seeking a Flight Test Operator to advance autonomous aircraft operations and scale testing across our California sites. You’ll validate new hardware and software while supporting customer deployments globally.

The role requires hands-on testing of aircraft and ground systems, collaboration with engineering teams, and the ability to relocate to locations as needed to support programs.