Flight Test Operator - Mission Autonomy

Anduril Industries, Inc.; San Clemente (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

Anduril Industries, Inc. is seeking a Flight Test Operator in California to fly and certify UAS platforms, operate ground control software, and support system integrations.

The role combines hands-on aircraft work, test execution, and collaboration with engineers, technicians, and project managers in a fast-paced defense tech environment. You will maintain autonomous aircraft, assist with test profiles, and travel to test sites and customer events as required.

Qualifications

• The candidate has RC, RPIC, or PIC experience on Group 1-2 aircraft.
• Strong manual control abilities and comfort with sticks.
• Ability to obtain FAA Part 107 and complete ground school if required.
• Willingness to travel as needed, up to ~50%.
• UAS maintenance experience and familiarity with control software.

Responsibilities

• Act as safety pilot during testing across aircraft platforms.
• Operate ground control software during tests and data collection.
• Build, repair, configure, and maintain autonomous aircraft.
• Support flight test engineers with execution and prep tasks.
• Assist system integrators with cabling, installation, and validation.
• Travel between test sites and to customer test events.
• Support equipment setup and breakdown at test events.

Skills

RC Pilot

Manual control

FAA Part 107

Travel 50%

UAS maintenance

Communication

Security clearance eligibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in aerospace or related field

Tools

QGC

Mission Planner

MavProxy

Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century’s most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril’s family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.

The Test and Evaluation Division is looking for a motivated and skilled Flight Test Operator to support and operate quadcopter, fixed wing, and VTOL group 1 & 2 UAS systems in support of a wide range of programs. Our team conduct operations in support of software development, system level development, and sub-component qualification.

A strong worth ethic is required for success in this role. You will not only fly aircraft during testing, you will participate in a wide range activities such as operating ground control software, RC (remote control) safety pilot operations, and supporting integrations. Excellent communication skills are required as this role requires interaction wide range of personnel including Flight Test Engineers, Software Engineers, System Integrator, and Project Managers.

If you enjoy working in a fast paced and innovative environment, where your work directly impacts and makes a difference, this a fantastic opportunity for you.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Act as safety pilot during testing on a wide range of aircraft platforms.
• Operate ground control software during testing.
• Build, Repair, Configure, and maintain autonomous aircraft for flight.
• Work with Flight Test Engineers on a variety of operational tasks that enable engineering, such as flight execution, material prep, or supporting test profiles.
• Assist System Integrators with tasks such as cabling prep, assembly installation, component configuration, and system validation.
• Travel between test sites depending on testing requirements and team needs.
• Travel to customer test events to support operations.
• Assist with equipment setup and breakdown at test sites and during customer test events.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• RC, RPIC, or Pilot-operator (PIC) experience on fixed wing commercial and/or defense Group 1 - 2 aircraft.
• Strong manual control capabilities and comfortable on the sticks of remote platforms.
• Ability to get and maintain a FAA part 107 certificate, and FAA Part 61 ground school completion (as required).
• Ability to travel on an as needed basis.
• Familiarity with flight controllers and autopilot logic.
• Familiarity with QGC, Mission Planner, or MavProxy
• Significant knowledge and understanding of National Airspace regulations and operating restrictions.
• Must have strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to own a variety of tasks in an autonomous environment.
• Able to work extended hours as required.
• Able to work in inclement weather.
• Strong customer service and organizational collaboration mentality.
• UAS maintenance experience.
• Willingness to travel approximately 50% of the time.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance
• In this role, you will be subject to pre-employment substance screening and randomized substance screening, as required by the Company.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Private Pilot License or Similar Certification.
• Bachelors degree in aerospace, electrical, software, mechanical engineering, or robotics related field.
• Experience with developmental and operational test.

US Hourly Range

$37.50 - $50 USD

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:

At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you’re supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits .