Flight Test Operator I

Pivotal; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental benefits

Vision plans

401k plans

Job summary

Pivotal is seeking an engineering professional to join our team in Palo Alto, CA, where you'll execute test plans on our innovative eVTOL aircraft. Candidates should have hands-on experience and a detail-oriented mindset.

You will be responsible for maintaining and optimizing aircraft operations, troubleshooting issues, and contributing to ongoing design improvements. The role emphasizes teamwork and effective problem-solving in a dynamic environment, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated hands-on experience through work or personal projects.
• Strong attention to detail and safety-oriented mindset.
• A clear and concise writing ability.

Responsibilities

• Execute test plans with unmanned aircraft.
• Assemble, preflight, and maintain aircraft and ground equipment.
• Perform repairs and upgrades on aircraft.

Skills

Attention to detail

Safety-oriented mindset

Data management

Clear documentation

Tools

Electronics

CNC equipment

Job description

Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly aircraft the world’s first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.

Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal aircraft are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt‑aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years. Last year we announced our next‑generation aircraft, the Helix, which is rapidly progressing toward general release and scalable production in 2026.

Mobility is one of the most highly‑valued areas of modern technology investments. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. If you are ready for adventure, we invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.

Responsibilities

• Execute test plans with unmanned aircraft to test and optimize BlackFly’s operational system and validate new hardware and software changes
• Assemble, preflight, and maintain aircraft and ground equipment at flight testing sites
• Become immersed in the design, operation, and maintenance of our aircraft
• Develop hands‑on experience with aircraft subsystems
• Strategize with the team to coordinate logistics and validate aircraft
• Maintain aircraft airframe, electronics and other components for operational
• Troubleshoot and perform repairs and upgrades
• Cooperate with the team as pilot-in-command (PIC) for Part 107 operations
• Suggest and/or implement design and process improvements
• Compile and document findings, results of tests, quality or safety concerns
• Conduct UAV flight testing with Flight Testing Team at test sites (you may do up to 25% travel, surveying sites or training
• A flexible work schedule may be an option Ex: 10hrs -12 hrs/day for 4 days/week

Qualifications

• Demonstrated hands‑on experience through past work, training and/or personal projects
• Strong attention to detail and safety‑oriented mindset
• Comfortable managing and manipulating data and documentation
• Able to write in a clear and concise manner

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with electronics, batteries, motors, sensors and composites used in UAVs
• Part 107 Certificate
• Private Pilots License a plus
• A&P Mechanic a plus
• Interest in RC planes, quadcopters, or aviation

Personal Attributes

• Thrive in a fast‑moving, stimulating, and collaborative team environment
• Resourceful, curious, never satisfied with the status quo
• Strong work ethic, organized, detail‑oriented, and able to multitask
• Always thinking about how to increase efficiency and improve processes
• Proactive about solving problems and suggesting solutions
• Strong work ethic and detail‑oriented
• Love for learning and being challenged

Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.

Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.

Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non‑disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.