Sr. Flight Test Operator

VideoRay; Lawrence (KS); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

AeroVironment in Lawrence, KS seeks a Senior Flight Test Operator to join the Flight Test & Evaluation team in testing uncrewed systems for defense and commercial applications.

You will plan, coordinate, and report on flight test activities, acting as Pilot-in-Command and safety pilot while coordinating with engineers and leadership to solve complex developmental flight test challenges. Travel may be required, and you must maintain FAA certifications and be willing to work on weapon systems.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of developmental test experience.
• 5+ years of RC helicopter experience.
• Hold a private pilot license (PLL).
• Willing to travel and obtain security clearance.
• Ability to fly and maintain large RC helicopters safely.
• Willing to work on weapons systems.
• Part 107 certification to operate SUAS is preferred or obtainable.

Responsibilities

• Prepare mission test cards and assist in planning flight missions.
• Act as safety pilot of a semi-autonomous RC helicopter via GCS and RC transmitter.
• Direct crew to maintain a safe posture during operations.
• Perform Pilot-in-Command duties during flight tests and manage associated responsibilities.
• Coordinate with AeroVironment and internal/external teams and leadership.
• Travel on short notice to fulfill operational needs.
• Maintain required training and FAA certifications.
• Provide training and professional development to coworkers.

Skills

Developmental test experience

RC helicopter experience

Private pilot license

Operate large RC helicopters

Willing to travel

Willing to security clearance

Willing to work on weapons systems

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

Summary

The Sr. Flight Test Operator position located in Lawrence, KS, works with the Flight Test & Evaluation (T&E) team to test innovative uncrewed systems for defense and commercial applications.

This position is to be filled with a highly motivated Test Pilot with a passion for developmental flight test in support of delivering uncrewed systems. You will work with program leadership and multi-disciplinary engineers to help solve complex problems. This role will be responsible for assisting with planning, coordination, execution and reporting on all aspects of the flight test program.

Position Responsibilities

• Maintain a high degree of professionalism including punctuality and culpability.
• Prepare mission test cards and assist in planning the flight missions to meet Engineering requirements.
• Act as a safety pilot of a semi-autonomous remote piloted helicopter by means of a Ground Control Station (GCS) laptop, tablet, and a Radio Control (RC) transmitter.
• Observe and direct crew/team members in their positions and actions to always maintain a safe posture.
• Perform duties as Pilot in Command during flight test operations and manage the responsibilities associated with that position.
• Cross communicates with multiple teams, internal and external to AeroVironment, including Senior Leadership or Customers.
• Travel on short notice to fulfill operational needs if and when those needs arise.
• Maintain all required training and certifications required to perform your job, both internal and external such as FAA certifications.
• Provide training and professional developmental support to coworkers under the guidance of AeroVironment as needed.
• Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 5 years of developmental test experience
• 5 years of RC Helicopter experience
• Currently hold a private pilot license (PLL)
• Ability to proficiently, safely fly and maintain large RC helicopters.
• Willing to work on weapons systems.
• Willing to travel as required.
• Willing to receive and maintain a security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications & Desired Competencies

• Currently have or can obtain Part 107 Certification to operate small, unmanned aircraft Systems (SUAS