Flight Test Engineer III/IV San Luis Obispo, California, United States

Zone5tech; San Luis Obispo (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dynamic team at an innovative company focused on unmanned aircraft systems. As a Flight Test Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in planning, executing, and analyzing flight tests for UAVs. This position offers the chance to work with cutting-edge technology and collaborate with a team of experts dedicated to overcoming challenges in the aerospace field. Enjoy a flexible work arrangement and a comprehensive benefits package while contributing to advancements that have a global impact. If you're passionate about aerospace and ready to take your career to new heights, this opportunity is for you!

Benefits

Comprehensive benefit package (medical, dental, vision)

401k with company-match

4 weeks of paid time off

12 annual company holidays

Qualifications

• 5-8 years of experience in aerospace engineering with UAV flight testing.
• Proven experience in planning and conducting flight tests for unmanned systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed flight test plans and coordinate with teams.
• Conduct flight tests and analyze data to ensure performance standards.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Flight Test Software Proficiency

Knowledge of FAA Regulations

Communication Skills

Teamwork Abilities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Data Acquisition Systems

Telemetry Systems

Flight Control Systems

Job description

San Luis Obispo, California, United States

Join us at Zone 5 Technologies where innovation and cutting-edge technology drive pioneering advancements in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Based in the vibrant city of San Luis Obispo CA, we're seeking talented individuals to join and contribute to our growing team.

We thrive on pushing boundaries and inventing solutions to real-world challenges. Join a community of forward-thinkers who collaborate to create impactful products with a global reach. Our team, consisting of engineers and professionals, is prepared to overcome new frontiers and deliver innovative solutions in the field of unmanned aircraft systems.

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:

Test Planning and Coordination:

• 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 for this role:

$90,000 - $140,000 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.
• Flexible Work Arrangement: Benefit from a hybrid work environment with the flexibility for remote work.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!