Job Description: Drone R&D Test Pilot

We are seeking a highly skilled and safety-conscious Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Test Pilot to lead developmental flight test operations for next-generation UAS platforms. This position is core to our R&D team, with a mission-critical focus on rapid prototyping, system validation, and high-risk developmental flight on VTOL platforms under 50 pounds

The ideal candidate combines technical flight knowledge with hands-on engineering intuition, and has deep familiarity with Pixhawk flight stacks, test protocols, and airspace coordination. You will work alongside engineers, autonomy developers, and program leadership to ensure safe, efficient, and insightful flight testing in both controlled and expeditionary environments.

This is not a drone operator role—it’s a systems-level test pilot position intended for a professional who understands the why behind every airframe maneuver and the how of translating test flights into actionable design improvements.

Key Responsibilities

Flight Test Execution & Safety

Plan, execute, and log complex test flights for UAV platforms in early-stage development.
Conduct pre-flight risk assessments, test card reviews, range safety coordination, and airworthiness validation.
Serve as pilot-in-command (PIC) or safety pilot for autonomous and semi-autonomous missions, with rapid decision-making authority in-flight.

R&D Collaboration

Work closely with engineering teams to develop test plans that validate novel sensors, software behaviors, or custom airframes
Translate pilot feedback into system updates—particularly around control algorithms, tuning, and mission execution.
Capture flight data and provide debriefs, performance evaluations, and design feedback loops to avionics and autonomy teams.

Systems Integration

Lead tuning, troubleshooting, and integration of Pixhawk-based platforms; modify parameters for different airframes, mission types, and test objectives.
Manage payload integration, telemetry systems, and remote GCS (Ground Control Station) operation.
Use companion tools like Mission Planner, QGroundControl, or custom GCS interfaces.
Experience with configuring and installing components: motors, props, ESC, batteries, etc

Minimum Qualifications

5+ years of UAV flight experience, with a strong record of safe and autonomous flight operations.
2+ years of experience supporting UAS R&D programs (DOD, academia, commercial prototype environments).
Full remote pilot (RC) capability – ability to safely fly with minimal flight controller assistance (RC helicopter, FPV drone in ‘rate’ stabilized mode).
Demonstrated mastery of Pixhawk and related GCS software
In-depth understanding of aircraft dynamics, flight envelopes, and autonomous system behavior.
FAA Part 107 certified (or higher-rated pilot certification).

Proficiency in flight log analysis tools (e.g., Flight Review, DataFlash logs).

Pay: $60,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Red Sky Engineering

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