Flight Test Engineer — Autonomous UAVs (Equity)

Grid Aero; San Leandro (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Job summary

Grid.aero seeks a Flight Test Engineer to join a small, high-impact team. You will own the execution, instrumentation, and analysis of flight test campaigns on our UAV platforms, bridging software, hardware, and operations to produce high-quality data and actionable insights.

As an early hire, you’ll help establish flight test processes, data validation standards, and safety protocols while traveling regularly to Merced for field testing. A strong background in aerospace and robotics is required.

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• Experience supporting flight tests, robotics field testing, or complex system validation.
• Strong experience with data analysis (Python, MATLAB, or similar tools).
• Familiarity with telemetry systems, onboard instrumentation, and sensor integration.
• Understanding of control systems, autonomy stacks, or robotic platforms.
• Comfort working with Linux-based systems and embedded platforms.
• Experience in early-stage startups or fast-paced R&D environments.
• Interest in autonomy, AI, and aviation (direct aviation experience is a plus, but not required).
• Experience with fixed-wing aircraft envelope expansion and performance testing is a plus.
• A degree or certificate from a Test Pilot School is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute flight test campaigns, including test cards, safety reviews, and post-flight debriefs
• Act as a Test Director or Ground Control Station crew member for ground and flight tests, and related simulation rehearsals.
• Own onboard and ground-based instrumentation setup for aircraft and support systems
• Validate autonomy, navigation, communication, and control system performance during live operations
• Analyze flight logs and sensor data to identify system-level behaviors, anomalies, and improvement opportunities
• Collaborate with software, controls, and mechanical teams to close the loop between test results and design iteration
• Establish structured flight test processes, documentation standards, and reporting frameworks
• Travel regularly to Merced, CA for flight operations and field testing (expenses covered)

Skills

Data analysis

Embedded Linux

Autonomy/robotics interest

Education

Bachelor/Master in aerospace/robotics/mechanical/computer science

Tools

Telemetry systems

Onboard instrumentation

Job description

Grid.aero seeks a Flight Test Engineer to join a small, high-impact team. You will own the execution, instrumentation, and analysis of flight test campaigns on our UAV platforms, bridging software, hardware, and operations to produce high-quality data and actionable insights.

As an early hire, you’ll help establish flight test processes, data validation standards, and safety protocols while traveling regularly to Merced for field testing. A strong background in aerospace and robotics is required.