Flight Test Intern - Summer 2027

Socket.dev; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

Skydio is seeking a Flight Test Intern to validate and advance the next generation of products. You will collaborate with multiple teams, supporting tests and validation across software and hardware platforms, while collecting flight data for benchmarking and improving system reliability.

The role emphasizes hands-on testing across drone software and hardware, with opportunities to work on end-to-end dock experiences and customer-facing features.

Qualifications

• Software/hardware testing background.
• Part 107 Certification.
• Demonstrated debugging of hardware and software systems.
• Experience operating Linux-based systems.
• Experience testing web-based applications.

Responsibilities

• Perform smoke and regression tests to ensure reliability.
• Run daily tests on the master branch to maintain quality.
• Support validation of new software features for customer-facing apps.
• Collect flight data for benchmarking.
• Execute wireless testing on new software and hardware platforms.

Skills

Software testing

Part 107 Certification

Debugging hardware/software

Linux systems

Web testing

Outdoor work

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 inspectors to first responders, soldiers in battlefield scenarios, and beyond.

About the role:

Skydio is looking for an enthusiastic Flight Test Intern to help validate and advance the next generation of Skydio products. As a leader in developing cutting-edge aerial platforms and the software that powers them, Skydio offers an exciting environment for hands‑on work with all our products. In this role, you will collaborate closely with various teams across the organization, providing support across multiple projects on the flight test team. This is a unique opportunity to play an essential role in shaping Skydio’s innovative products.

How you’ll make an impact:

• Conduct smoke and regression tests to ensure system reliability and confidence

• Perform daily testing on the master branch to maintain software quality

• Enhance the end-to‑end Skydio Dock experience by working closely with engineers to identify and resolve key issues

• Support the validation of new software features for customer‑facing applications

• Identify and communicate product limitations early in the development cycle to improve performance and market fit

• Verify software updates to maintain a stable and reliable flying platform

• Collect flight data to support competitive benchmarking efforts

• Execute wireless testing on all new software and hardware platforms

What makes you a good fit:

• Software/hardware testing background

• Part 107 Certification

• Consider yourself a jack of all trades

• 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 performanceBasic 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

• Interest in spending time outdoors

• Experience testing web based applications

• Wireless testing experience preferred

Compensation Range:

The annual base salary range for this position is $41/hr for students*. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. In addition to base salary, Skydio full‑time employees are eligible to enroll in our benefit plans and take advantage of a variety of incentives and stipends.

*For some positions the pay may be dependent upon the individual’s regional location.

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 veteran status, 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/