Production Flight Test Pilot I

Red Cat Holdings; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 27,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous annual equity package

Potential bonuses

Job summary

Red Cat Holdings is looking for a dedicated Flight Test Pilot in Torrance, CA, to support flight operations and quality control testing for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This role focuses on conducting flight tests, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating closely with engineers on system performance.

Qualified candidates should have 2 years of drone pilot experience, a strong attention to detail, and possess an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. The position offers competitive compensation and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• 2 years of Drone Pilot Experience (Hobby or Commercial).
• 300 hours of verifiable commercial drone experience.
• Familiarity with basic electronics and mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Conduct functional testing and quality control flights.
• Operate as a remote pilot or visual observer during flight tests.
• Identify and help troubleshoot technical issues during testing.

Skills

Drone Pilot Experience (Hobby or Commercial)

Commercial drone experience

Hands-on experience with UAS platforms

Attention to detail

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a technical field

Tools

PX4

ArduPilot

QGroundControl

Mission Planner

Job description

Position Summary

FlightWave is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Flight Test Pilot to support operational and quality control testing of our unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). We are a growing drone technology company focused on serving defense, public safety, and other government security organizations.

In this role, you’ll support daily flight test operations — including vehicle preparation, mission execution, post‑flight data collection, and issue resolution. While the job requires hands‑on technician skills, it is primarily focused on flight testing and flying — making it ideal for someone with strong UAV experience and a passion for flight operations.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Conduct functional testing and quality control flights for new and production aircraft
• Operate as a remote pilot or visual observer during flight test operations
• Prepare UAS platforms for flight, including pre‑flight inspections and setup of ground control equipment
• Identify, document, and help troubleshoot technical issues found during flight testing
• Maintain detailed records of flights, test results, and any discrepancies
• Work closely with engineers to provide feedback on system performance, reliability, and usability
• Assist with basic repairs, calibrations, and hardware swaps as needed
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Required Qualifications

• 2 years of Drone Pilot Experience (Hobby or Commercial)
• 300 hours of verifiable commercial drone experience
• Hands‑on experience operating and flying both quadrotor and fixed‑wing UAS platforms
• Familiarity with basic electronics, tools, wiring, and mechanical systems
• Strong attention to detail, process discipline, and documentation habits
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Additional Desired Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a technical field
• Experience with PX4, ArduPilot, or similar flight control systems
• Prior experience supporting structured flight test or engineering test programs
• Familiarity with GCS tools like QGroundControl or Mission Planner
• Basic knowledge of telemetry systems, log analysis, or test instrumentation
• Military or government flight operations experience is a plus

Physical Requirements And Working Conditions

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work outdoors in varied field environments, including heat and direct sun exposure.
• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and move across uneven terrain for extended periods.
• Requires fine motor skills for equipment setup, wiring, and mechanical adjustments.
• Visual acuteness needed for both close detail work and monitoring aircraft in flight.
• Must be able to hear and communicate clearly in dynamic test environments, including over radios or comms equipment.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post‑offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export‑restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: $26.50 - $43, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.