UAS Flight Test Operator

NGV Talent; Bay Point (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid parental leave

Wellness reimbursement programs

Commuter benefits

Paid time off and paid sick leave

Disability and life insurance

Mental health and employee assistance

Additional company-sponsored benefits

Job summary

NGV Talent is seeking a UAS Flight Test Operator to support testing, validation and development of autonomous drone systems. You will execute test flights, collect data, and assist engineering teams in a fast-paced setting.

Ideal candidates are FAA-certified pilots with hands-on testing experience, capable of outdoor operations and documentation, and willing to travel up to 20% across field locations in the United States.

Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 certification is required.
• 100+ logged drone flight hours in varied environments.
• Experience with FPV and/or Acro Mode.
• Strong understanding of FAA regulations and safe flight operations.
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather.
• Willingness to travel up to 20%.
• Flexibility to work testing-driven schedules.

Responsibilities

• Execute structured drone test flights in manual and autonomous modes.
• Adjust flight parameters based on test plans and feedback.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections and readiness checks.
• Manage batteries, charging equipment, and flight support hardware.
• Support flight testing, troubleshooting, and data collection.
• Collaborate with engineering to improve system performance.
• Document flight observations, anomalies, and test results.
• Assist with field logistics and test site setup.
• Operate safely in outdoor environments and varying weather.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of autonomous drone systems.

Skills

Drone flight ops

Troubleshooting

Documentation

Communication

Education

FAA Part 107 Certification

Tools

PX4

ArduPilot

Auterion

Herelink

Job description

Job Overview

We are hiring UAS Flight Test Operators to support the testing, validation, and development of advanced autonomous drone systems. This role focuses on executing flight tests, collecting operational data, supporting engineering teams, and helping improve the performance, safety, and reliability of next-generation autonomous aviation technology.

This position is ideal for FAA-certified drone pilots who enjoy hands‑on testing, field operations, troubleshooting, and working closely with engineering teams in a fast‑paced development environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute structured drone test flights in both manual and autonomous flight modes
• Adjust flight parameters based on evolving test plans and engineering feedback
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections and readiness checks
• Manage batteries, charging equipment, and flight support hardware
• Support flight testing, troubleshooting, and data collection activities
• Collaborate with engineering and flight operations teams to identify issues and improve system performance
• Document flight observations, anomalies, and test results
• Assist with field logistics and test site setup
• Support testing at external facilities and field locations as needed
• Operate safely in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions
• Contribute to continuous improvement of autonomous drone systems and operational procedures

Requirements

• FAA Part 107 Certification required
• 100+ logged drone flight hours in various operating environments
• Experience flying FPV and/or Acro Mode
• Strong understanding of FAA regulations and safe flight operations
• Experience operating drones in manual and autonomous flight modes
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions
• Strong communication and documentation skills
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive drone handling activities
• Willingness to travel up to 20%
• Ability to work flexible schedules based on testing needs

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with PX4, ArduPilot, Auterion, or Herelink systems
• Experience supporting drone development, aerospace, robotics, or autonomous systems programs
• Experience conducting flight testing and data collection
• Familiarity with engineering validation and hardware testing environments
• Experience identifying, documenting, and communicating technical issues
• Strong analytical mindset and attention to detail

Schedule

• 8:00am - 4:30pm | Monday - Friday

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid parental leave
• Wellness reimbursement programs
• Commuter benefits
• Paid time off and paid sick leave
• Disability and life insurance
• Mental health and employee assistance programs
• Additional company-sponsored benefits

Additional Details

• Onsite role in Bay Point, CA
• FAA certification will be verified during the interview process
• Must be authorized to work in the United States