Autonomous UAV Test Pilot & Systems Engineer

Nokturnal AI

Florida

On-site

USD 85,000 - 115,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

Nokturnal AI seeks a highly motivated UAS Pilot to test, operate, and deploy autonomous aircraft in hands-on environments. You will work with engineers, technicians, and program managers to validate performance and support demonstrations.

Responsibilities include planning missions, conducting PIC/VO flights, collecting data, training users, and ensuring FAA compliance across field deployments in the United States. Strong troubleshooting and communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
Demonstrated experience operating both multirotor and fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems.
Highly proficient in Mission Planner, including mission planning, aircraft configuration, parameter management, and system setup.
Experience with autopilot programming, parameter tuning, and flight controller configuration.
Ability to perform flight log review and analysis to identify performance issues, troubleshoot issues, and recommend system improvements.
Experience configuring and setting up unmanned aircraft systems from the ground up, including avionics, flight controllers, communications equipment, payload integration, and support systems.
Experience with gas-powered UAS engine setup, tuning, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
Skilled Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) pilot with experience operating both multirotor and fixed-wing aircraft safely.
Strong troubleshooting skills involving electrical, mechanical, avionics, software, propulsion, and flight control systems.
Experience performing routine inspections, preventative maintenance, repairs, and component replacement to ensure aircraft mission readiness.
Ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues in both laboratory and field environments with minimal supervision.
Strong understanding of mission planning, operational risk assessment, and flight safety best practices.
Ability and willingness to travel frequently in support of customer demonstrations, flight testing, training events, and operational deployments.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate technical information clearly and professionally to engineers, technicians, leadership, and customers.
Demonstrated ability to provide constructive feedback, actively participate in technical discussions, and foster open, respectful communication within a collaborative team environment.
Ability to document test results, flight observations, maintenance activities, and technical findings accurately and communicate recommendations for continuous improvement.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to lift and transport aircraft, ground control stations, batteries, and support equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

Conducting flight testing of prototype and production unmanned aircraft.
Operating as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Visual Observer (VO) during flight operations.
Planning missions and performing pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections.
Collecting and documenting flight test data for engineering analysis.
Supporting system validation and troubleshooting alongside engineering teams.
Assisting with aircraft assembly, configuration, maintenance, and field repairs.
Conducting customer demonstrations and acceptance flights.
Training customers and internal personnel on aircraft operation and safety procedures.
Supporting field deployments and operational exercises throughout the United States.
Maintaining compliance with FAA regulations, company flight procedures, and customer requirements.
Promoting a strong culture of safety and operational excellence.