Lead Flight Test Pilot, UAS R&D & Endurance Missions

Platform Aerospace; Hollywood (MD); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Platform Aerospace in Hollywood, MD seeks a Flight Test Pilot III to support R&D flight operations for long-endurance unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). You will plan, execute, and analyze flight test activities while ensuring safety, compliance, and mission success.

The role requires independence, strong technical expertise, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and leadership of test programs, with travel up to 50% CONUS/OCONUS as needed.

Qualifications

• Requires FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• PPL required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Willingness to travel up to 50% CONUS/OCONUS.
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute R&D flight test programs for multi-day endurance UAS platforms.
• Develop and refine test plans, procedures, risk assessments, and success criteria.
• Coordinate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Software teams for integration and evaluation.
• Lead post-flight debriefings and document lessons learned for iterative development.
• Analyze flight test data, identify anomalies, and propose corrective actions.

Skills

UAS operations

Leadership

Flight test planning

Part 107 Certification

PPL

Security clearance

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aviation, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Piccolo flight controllers

Quattro Flight Management System

Job description

Platform Aerospace in Hollywood, MD seeks a Flight Test Pilot III to support R&D flight operations for long-endurance unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). You will plan, execute, and analyze flight test activities while ensuring safety, compliance, and mission success.

The role requires independence, strong technical expertise, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and leadership of test programs, with travel up to 50% CONUS/OCONUS as needed.