Flight Test Engineer

Zone 5 Technologies; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 184,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401k with company-match

4 weeks paid time off

12 company holidays

Job summary

Zone 5 Technologies is seeking experienced Flight Test Engineers to plan, certify, and fly UAVs (UAS) across test ranges in California and CONUS/OCONUS locations. The role emphasizes developing test plans, executing tests, and analyzing data to ensure safety, performance, and reliability of Level I–IV UAS.

Travel to test sites and occasional demonstrations at various locations are expected; comfort with outdoor environments and weather while maintaining rigorous safety standards is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical engineering or related field.
• 5–8 years in aerospace engineering with 3–5 years in UAV flight testing or related field.
• Proven experience planning and conducting flight tests for unmanned systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed flight test plans with objectives, methodologies, safety protocols, and resources.
• Collaborate with design, systems, and software teams to define test requirements.
• Coordinate with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with aviation regulations and standards.
• Lead or participate in flight test execution, including piloting UAVs remotely when required.
• Monitor and analyze flight data to ensure test objectives are met and report findings.

Skills

Analytical skills

Flight test software

Telemetry knowledge

Communication skills

Teamwork

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in aerospace/mechanical/electrical engineering

Tools

Data acquisition systems

Telemetry

Flight control systems

Job description

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting‑edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next‑generation flight systems, you belong here.

We are seeking experienced Flight Test Engineers to assemble, certify, and fly groups 1 to 4 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). You will play a crucial role in the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). You will work with cross‑functional teams to develop test plans, conduct flight tests, and ensure that UAV systems meet performance, safety, and reliability standards. This position requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, a deep understanding of UAV systems, and experience in flight testing.

Zone 5 maintains a weekly flight test cadence at test ranges local to the San Luis Obispo, CA area. In addition, there will be occasional flight test demonstration events at both CONUS and OCONUS locations that will require travel to support. Flight testing requires significant time spent outdoors in various weather conditions.

Responsibilities:

• Develop detailed flight test plans, including objectives, methodologies, safety protocols, and resource requirements.
• Collaborate with design engineers, systems engineers, and software developers to define test requirements and procedures.
• Coordinate with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations and standards.

Flight Test Execution:

• Conduct pre‑flight inspections and system checks to ensure the readiness of UAVs for testing.
• Lead or participate in the execution of flight tests, including piloting UAVs remotely if required.
• Monitor and analyze flight data in real‑time to ensure the achievement of test objectives.
• Troubleshoot issues that arise during testing and implement corrective actions.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Collect, analyze, and interpret flight test data to assess the performance of UAV systems.
• Prepare comprehensive test reports documenting results, findings, and recommendations for design improvements.
• Present findings to engineering teams, management, and external stakeholders.

Safety and Risk Management:

• Implement and enforce safety protocols during all phases of flight testing.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies to ensure safe operations.
• Lead post‑test debriefs to identify lessons learned and incorporate them into future testing.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of test methodologies and procedures.
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in UAV flight testing.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to team members.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5-8 years of experience in aerospace engineering, with at least 3-5 years in UAV flight testing or a closely related field.
• Proven experience in planning and conducting flight tests for unmanned systems.
• Experience with data acquisition systems, telemetry, and flight control systems.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in flight test software and simulation tools.
• Knowledge of FAA regulations and airworthiness standards for UAVs.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Primarily office‑based with significant time spent at test sites
• May include environments in hot, cold, and/or wet conditions.
• May involve travel to various test locations and working in outdoor environments under various weather conditions.

Pay Range by Level:

Level III - $125,000 - $151,000

Level IV - $151,000 - $184,000

Pay range for this role

$125,000 - $184,000 USD

What's in it for you:

• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
• 401k with company-match
• 4 weeks of paid time off each year
• 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting‑edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.