Field Visual Observer - Drone Flight Safety (Austin)

Zipline; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 26,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Zipline's Flight Operations team in Austin seeks a Visual Observer to ensure safe, repeatable autonomous aircraft operations that deliver medical supplies. You will maintain line-of-sight, report hazards, and support safe launches and landings with the RPIC and site crew.

On-site day, night and weekend shifts at the Dallas site, with part-time or full-time options. FAA Part 107 or aviation experience preferred; training provided. Starting pay is $23/hour, reflecting market norms for this role.

Qualifications

• Must be 18+ and able to pass background and pre-employment checks.
• Available for day, night and weekend shifts at the Dallas site; full-time or part-time.
• Comfortable working outdoors for extended periods in varying weather.
• Clear, calm radio and face-to-face communication under stress; English fluency required.
• Ability to enforce safety rules and make decisive hazard calls during operations.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or aviation experience preferred; training available.

Responsibilities

• Own visual observation for assigned flights from pre-launch through recovery with unbroken line-of-sight.
• Detect non-cooperative air traffic, hazards, and call out risks; escalate and stop operations if needed.
• Monitor weather and environmental conditions; provide go/no-go inputs to RPIC and site lead.
• Conduct pre-operational site checks; verify clear launch/recovery corridors and safety gear.
• Communicate observations in real time with RPIC and crew during briefings and events.
• Complete incident reports and logs; support safety reviews and corrective actions.
• Assist with routine site setup/teardown and maintain site readiness.
• Maintain readiness for varying shifts and participate in required trainings.

Skills

Safety compliance

Clear communication

English fluency

Outdoor/field work

Attention to detail

FAA Part 107 (preferred)

Job description

Zipline's Flight Operations team in Austin seeks a Visual Observer to ensure safe, repeatable autonomous aircraft operations that deliver medical supplies. You will maintain line-of-sight, report hazards, and support safe launches and landings with the RPIC and site crew.

On-site day, night and weekend shifts at the Dallas site, with part-time or full-time options. FAA Part 107 or aviation experience preferred; training provided. Starting pay is $23/hour, reflecting market norms for this role.