Flight Test Engineer - Core & Hardware Validation

Skydio; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 119,000 - 168,000; Full time

Job summary

Skydio, a leader in drone technology, is looking for a Flight Test Engineer focused on validating innovative products. The role involves conducting tests, optimizing procedures, and ensuring compliance for various projects. Candidates should have a QA background and experience with UAS systems, as well as a passion for flight.

Benefits

Paid vacation time

Sick leave

Holiday pay

401K savings plan

Qualifications

• Part 107 Certification required.
• Experience operating UAS and understanding subsystems.
• Ability to work in field environments and travel to test sites.

Responsibilities

• Create and run smoke and regression tests to validate systems.
• Track performance metrics across hardware builds.
• Contribute to test readiness reviews and safety assessments.

Skills

Software QA

Debugging

Communication

Documentation

Tools

Linux-based systems

Job description

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users. From utility inspectorstofirst responders,soldiers in battlefield scenariosandbeyond.

About the role:

Skydio is seeking an enthusiastic Flight Test Engineer - Core & HW Validation to help validate the next generation of Skydio products. Skydio builds innovative flying platforms and software to control them. This role will be focused on working with all products that Skydio has to offer. As an FTE Flight Core & HW Validation, you will be responsible for working cross functionally with various teams and will be jumping in to support various projects, sometimes simultaneously. This is an onsite role located in San Mateo.

How you'll make an impact:

• Create and run smoke and regression tests to validate system confidence
• Run and optimize existing test plans to keep inline with the latest features
• Track performance metrics across hardware builds
• Capture and surface product limitation early in the development cycle to improve performance and market fit.
• Validate SW changes to ensure a stable flying platform
• Assist in collection of flight data for competitive benchmarking
• Generate substantial amounts of logged flight data and media that will be used to characterize and improve system performance and reliability
• Design and execute test plans and procedures focused on evaluating core system functionality, including:
• Work closely with systems, software, and hardware teams to define test requirements and success criteria
• Ensure aircraft and ground systems are configured for safe and efficient testing
• Collect and analyze test data using flight logs, telemetry, and onboard sensor data
• Identify, document, and track anomalies or deviations in performance
• Contribute to test readiness reviews, safety assessments, and post-test debriefs
• Support FAA/regulatory compliance and airworthiness documentation as needed

What makes you a good fit:

• Software QA/testing background
• Part 107 Certification
• Solid debugging of hardware and software systems
• Enjoy working on multiple projects at the same time
• Practical experience with UAS
• Understanding of UAS subsystems and their real world performance
• Basic mechanical and electrical system integration knowledge
• Experience operating Linux based systems
• Demonstrated passion for things that fly (bonus points for sUAS Pilot's license)
• Thorough communication and documentation skills
• Ability to work in field environments and travel to test sites as required

Compensation: At Skydio, our compensation packages for regular, full-time employees include competitive base salaries, equity in the form of stock options, and comprehensive benefits packages. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. Relocation assistance may also be provided for eligible roles. The annual base salary range for this position is $119,000-$168,000. Fundamentally, we believe that equity is the key to long-term financial growth, and we ensure all regular, full-time employees have the opportunity to significantly benefit from the company's success. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to enroll in the Company’s group health insurance plans. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to receive the following benefits: Paid vacation time, sick leave, holiday pay and 401K savings plan. This position and all associated benefits are subject to applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the Company’s policies and eligibility criteria.

*Compensation for certain positions may vary based on the position’s location.

LI-WA1

At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces the power of diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color,religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteranstatus, or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti-discrimination laws.

For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/