Director, UAS Flight Ops — Lead Drone Testing & Validation

Homerun B.V.; New York (NY); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation stipend

Job summary

Vermeer is seeking an experienced UAS Flight Operations Director to lead flight testing and validation for next-gen GPS-denied navigation. You will head testing across various UAS types, manage pilots, and ensure documentation and aircraft maintenance are up to date.

The role combines in-office and field work in Brooklyn, NY, with relocation support. Proficiency in PX4/Ardupilot and GCS tools is highly valued, and you will collaborate closely with engineers on test activities.

Qualifications

• Legal US citizenship is required.
• FAA Part 107 certification is required.
• Experience planning flight test cards considering hardware, software versions, flight paths, safety protocols.
• 2+ years managing at least one pilot.
• Significant PX4 / Ardupilot autopilot experience and MAVLINK.
• Experience flying Group 2-3 UAS.
• Experience with ground control software (QGroundControl, Mission Planner).
• Strong understanding of 14 CFR Part 107 regulations and FAA waivers.
• Strong understanding of drone electrical, mechanical, and software systems.
• Must possess a driver's license and be willing to operate a motor vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Plan daily flight tests for various Group 1-3 UAS (multirotor, fixed-wing, VTOL).
• Manage a small team of pilots.
• Maintain and manage flight testing documentation.
• Maintain all in-house aircraft.
• Collaborate with software and mechanical engineers; plan, execute and report test activities.

Skills

US Citizenship

FAA Part 107 Certification

Flight testing planning

People management

PX4 / Ardupilot MAVLINK

Group 2-3 UAS experience

Ground control software

FAA waivers & Part 107 regs

Drone systems knowledge

Driver's license

Education

BS in Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace, Aviation or related field

Tools

QGroundControl

Mission Planner

Job description

Vermeer is seeking an experienced UAS Flight Operations Director to lead flight testing and validation for next-gen GPS-denied navigation. You will head testing across various UAS types, manage pilots, and ensure documentation and aircraft maintenance are up to date.

The role combines in-office and field work in Brooklyn, NY, with relocation support. Proficiency in PX4/Ardupilot and GCS tools is highly valued, and you will collaborate closely with engineers on test activities.