Flight Test Operator II

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. (ESAero); San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 48,904 - 62,680; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness plans

120 hours of PTO

401(k) with company match

Casual dress code

Job summary

A leading aerospace company in San Luis Obispo is seeking a full-time Flight Test Operator II. This role combines technical maintenance and active flight operations for experimental aircraft. Responsibilities include supporting UAS flight missions, operating ground control software, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Applicants should have a high school diploma, 2+ years in UAS operations, and a safety-first mindset. The position offers comprehensive benefits and is fully on-site.

Qualifications

• 2+ years’ experience in UAS operations required.
• Basic understanding of aircraft systems essential.
• Part 107 Certified (current) or ability to acquire.

Responsibilities

• Support building and maintaining aircraft for flight.
• Execute flight missions and conduct system evaluations.
• Operate ground control software during testing.

Skills

UAS operations

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Basic troubleshooting

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Summary

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. is seeking a full‑time Flight Test Operator II to work within our project teams. ESAero is a growing aerospace company in the San Luis Obispo area and provides various services which include rapid system development, on‑demand niche engineering, hands‑on development/testing, and small UAS aerospace system manufacturing. The Flight Test Operator II role is a hybrid of technical maintenance and active flight operations, where you will support the entire lifecycle of experimental aircraft—from the initial assembly and programming of Group I–III vehicles to the execution of critical flight missions. Working directly alongside Flight Test Engineers, you will support performing complex system calibrations, operating ground control software (GCS), and support pilot operations for demonstrations. This position requires a “safety‑first” mindset, a willingness to operate in dynamic field environments, and the technical agility to troubleshoot sophisticated hardware under shifting test schedules.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Support building, programming, and maintaining aircraft for flight vehicles including Group I–III UAS including rocket or jet propulsion
• Execute flight test missions, system evaluation, and live customer demonstrations
• Act as a pilot during testing on a range of experimental aircraft platforms
• Operate ground control software (GCS) and launcher systems during testing
• Assist technicians with technical tasks such as cabling prep, assembly installation, and component configuration
• Execute vehicle checkouts to accomplish system calibration and validation before testing
• Work alongside Flight Test Engineers to meet engineering goals through flight execution, material preparation, and the development of test plans and checklists
• Understand all procedures and hazards associated with the test procedures
• Capture flight data, logs, and system performance observations to assist with post‑flight debriefs and root‑cause analysis
• Perform equipment setup, hardware maintenance and troubleshooting at test sites, ensuring all supporting hardware is mission ready
• Operate in field environments, staying flexible and responsive to shifting schedules and variable hours based on test requirements
• Ensure strict compliance with FAA regulations, airspace requirements, and internal safety standards
• Open to about 25% travel

Required Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years’ experience in UAS operations
• Basic understanding of aircraft systems and test operations
• Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and communication skills
• Basic troubleshooting and data acquisition skills
• Ability to work in a team‑oriented, fast‑paced test environment
• Willing to work flexible hours and support extensive field testing when required
• Willing to relocate to San Luis Obispo or surrounding area
• Part 107 Certified (current) or ability to acquire
• U.S. Citizen

Desired Qualifications and Skills

• Associate or relevant technical degree
• Experience supporting military UAS flight test or systems testing in a regulated environment
• Experience with FAA, military, or civil flight test practices
• Experience with customer service
• Familiarity with flight controllers and autopilot logic
• Ammo‑62 Certified
• Tripoli Rocketry Certification

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks

• Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans—including a 100% employer‑paid option covering both employees and their families
• Paid Time Off: 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay, and paid holidays on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day
• Life Insurance: $25,000 employer‑paid life insurance policy, with an option to purchase additional coverage for employees and families
• Supplemental Coverage: Optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Tax‑advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match
• Paid Holidays: 9 paid holidays throughout the year
• Work Environment: Casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture
• Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life—a perfect place to live, work, and play

Company Overview

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high‑quality, innovative, and cost‑effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting‑edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on‑time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services. At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel the aerospace industry forward.

Location and Employment Details

This position is fully on‑site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA.

EEO Statement

ESAero is an equal opportunity employer. E‑Verify participation required for employment. Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States. Must be able to pass background check and drug test. Hiring Range: $35.50–$45.50 hourly, non‑exempt.