Flight Test Intern: Build, Fly Analyze Autonomous Aircraft

Grid Aero, Inc.; San Leandro (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Grid.aero in San Leandro, CA, is seeking a Flight Test Intern to join the flight test team. The role spans subscale aircraft, autonomy test beds, instrumentation, and data analysis, with approximately 50% travel to Merced for full-scale testing.

You will design, build, and operate flight-test tools and procedures, own defined work packages, and collaborate with engineers to translate findings into design improvements.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a technical field.
• Hands-on hardware building or troubleshooting experience.
• Experience with CAD software for mechanical design.
• Basic knowledge of flight mechanics or avionics.
• Proficiency with shop tools and hardware integration.
• Strong communication and safety focus.

Responsibilities

• Support planning and execution of ground and flight tests.
• Design, build, and maintain flight-test tools and data systems.
• Own work packages for subscale aircraft development.
• Develop test plans and procedures for subscale tests.
• Configure and troubleshoot test hardware and software.
• Analyze flight-test data and communicate findings to engineers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement design improvements.

Skills

Hands-on builder experience

Flight mechanics basics

Python or MATLAB

Onsite travel readiness

Test and data analysis

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Aerospace/Mechanical/Electrical/Robotics/CE

Tools

CAD software

CATIA V5/3DEXPERIENCE

Job description

Grid.aero in San Leandro, CA, is seeking a Flight Test Intern to join the flight test team. The role spans subscale aircraft, autonomy test beds, instrumentation, and data analysis, with approximately 50% travel to Merced for full-scale testing.

You will design, build, and operate flight-test tools and procedures, own defined work packages, and collaborate with engineers to translate findings into design improvements.