UAS Operations Test Engineer

Leidos; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 92,000 - 167,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos Defense Sensors in Huntsville, AL seeks a UAS Operations Test Engineer to join our team responsible for the integration and test of Tactical Uncrewed Aviation Systems. The candidate will be hands-on with UAS operations, capable of working independently in both lab and field environments to ensure reliable, mission-ready solutions.

The role requires testing emerging ground control and flight systems, plus close collaboration with government stakeholders.

Qualifications

• BS in a related field from an accredited institution; 8–12 years UAS ops experience, or HS diploma with 20 years flight ops
• Hands-on experience with various UAS platforms for Air and Payload Operations
• Working knowledge of Unmanned Aviation System components
• Working knowledge of DCMA 8210-1D processes
• Possession or ability to possess Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or private pilot’s license)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for detailed reports and briefings
• US citizenship and Secret clearance
• Residence in Huntsville, AL or willingness to relocate to Huntsville, AL

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop test plans, procedures, and detailed technical reports.
• Conduct lab, field, and flight testing including setup, data collection, and post-test analysis.
• Analyze and troubleshoot system behavior using standard flight control and test systems, including protocol analyzers and flight replay utilities.

Skills

UAS operations

Flight testing

Technical reporting

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

High School diploma + 20 years flight ops

Tools

Protocol analyzers

Flight replay utilities

DCMA 8210-1D processes

Job description

Description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers’ success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

Your greatest work is ahead!

Leidos’ Defense Sensors RF Systems UAS Portfolio is seeking a UAS Operations Test Engineer to join our team supporting a team of engineers to support the integration and test of Tactical Uncrewed Aviation Systems. The ideal candidate is a hands-on test engineer with a strong background in UAS operations, capable of working independently in both lab and field environments. You’ll be responsible for testing emerging UAS ground control and flight systems, and collaborating closely with government stakeholders to ensure reliable, mission-ready solutions.

Leidos Defense Sensors

Leidos Defense Sensors provides a diverse portfolio of systems, solutions, and services covering land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace for customers worldwide. Solutions for Defense include enterprise and mission IT, large-scale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial and data analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is solving the world’s toughest security challenges for customers with “can’t fail” missions.

Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop test plans, procedures, and detailed technical reports.
• Conduct lab, field, and flight testing, including test setup, data collection, and post-test analysis.
• Analyze and troubleshoot system behavior using standard flight control and test systems to include protocol analyzers and flight replay utilities.

Basic Qualifications

• BS in a related field from an accredited institution with 8-12 years of applicable UAS operations experience. In lieu of a degree, a High School diploma with (20) years of applicable flight operations is acceptable
• Hands-on experience with various UAS platforms, performing both Air and Payload Operations.
• Working knowledge of Unmanned Aviation System components.
• Working knowledge of DCMA 8210-1D processes.
• Possession or ability to possess Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or a private pilot’s license).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop detailed technical reports and briefings.
• Must be a US citizen, possess and maintain a Secret clearance.
• Must be a resident of Huntsville, AL or willing to relocate to the Huntsville, AL area.

Preferred Qualifications

• UAS operational experience.
• Experience with testing DoD UAS' .
• Knowledge of UAS command and control protocols.
• Knowledge of UAS ISR payload platforms.

Pay Range

Pay Range $92,300.00 - $166,850.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That’s why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.

Commitment to Non-discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.