Flight Operator

Skyways; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Skyways in Austin, Texas is seeking a Flight Operator to join the Flight Team. In this role, you will be responsible for planning and executing missions, conducting flight tests, and ensuring compliance with FAA regulations. Your contributions directly impact aircraft safety and performance.

The ideal candidate will have an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, experience flying drones for commercial purposes, and strong situational awareness. This position is limited to U.S. citizens and permanent residents due to government contract requirements.

Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required.
• Experience with UAVs and deep understanding of flight regulations is essential.
• Attention to detail and situational awareness are critical.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and document flight tests and operational missions.
• Conduct compliance inspections and operate aircraft safely.
• Troubleshoot field issues collaboratively with engineering.

Skills

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Experience flying drones (non-DJI) for commercial purposes

Strong knowledge of airspace, flight safety, and regulations

Excellent situational awareness and attention to detail

Ability to adapt quickly in dynamic, real world flight environments

Education

Current FAA Third Class Medical or ability to obtain one

Job description

The Opportunity

As a Flight Operator on the Flight Team, you will plan and execute missions, run flight tests, troubleshoot in real time, and provide insights that shape our systems and procedures. Your work directly impacts the safety, reliability, and performance of our aircraft.

What You’ll Do:

• Plan, execute, and document flight tests and operational missions.
• Conduct preflight and postflight inspections and ensure compliance with FAA regulations.
• Operate aircraft safely and effectively in a variety of conditions and mission profiles.
• Support vehicle testing, system validation, and operational readiness reviews.
• Troubleshoot issues in the field and collaborate with engineering to drive improvements.
• Contribute to training materials, flight procedures, and operational best practices.

What You’ll Bring:

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• Experience flying drones (non‑DJI) for commercial purposes.
• Strong knowledge of airspace, flight safety, and regulations.
• Excellent situational awareness and attention to detail.
• Ability to adapt quickly in dynamic, real world flight environments.
• Current FAA Third Class Medical or the ability to obtain one.

Bonus Points If You Have:

• Experience with large (>55 lb AUW) UAVs.
• Experience with ArduPilot or PX4 UAVs.
• FAA Part 61 certificate(s).
• Background in aviation or aerospace.
• Instructional experience in an aviation or other technical context.
• Technical skills in maintenance, troubleshooting, or data processing.

Due to U.S. government contract requirements, this role is limited to U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or candidates from specific countries authorized under applicable export control regulations.

Skyways is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other factor protected by applicable local, state or federal laws.