Full Description

About Us

Grid Aero is a VC-backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense and commercial markets. We are focused on solving real-world problems that will shape the future of the industry. Led by aerospace veterans and supported by leading venture firms, Grid is at the forefront of developing autonomous systems that will revolutionize how goods move through the skies. Be part of a fast-growing, high-impact startup in early days. At Grid, your work will shape critical industries, driving innovation at the intersection of national security and global commerce.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to join our small but high-impact team. In this role, you will work in close collaboration with our CTO and own the execution, instrumentation, and analysis of flight test campaigns on our full scale and subscale UAVs. You will serve as the bridge between software, hardware, autonomy, and operations — ensuring that every test flight produces high-quality data, validated performance insights, and actionable engineering feedback. As an early hire in the flight test team, you’ll help establish Grid’s flight test processes, data validation standards, and safety protocols from the ground up. You’ll work closely with leadership and cross-functional engineering teams to ensure our systems are robust, reliable, and mission-ready. If you're excited about building and testing real autonomous aircraft in a fast-moving startup environment, this role is for you.

What You’ll Do

• Plan and execute flight test campaigns, including test cards, safety reviews, and post-flight debriefs
• Act as a Test Director or Ground Control Station crew member for ground and flight tests, and related simulation rehearsals.
• Own onboard and ground-based instrumentation setup for aircraft and support systems
• Validate autonomy, navigation, communication, and control system performance during live operations
• Analyze flight logs and sensor data to identify system-level behaviors, anomalies, and improvement opportunities
• Collaborate with software, controls, and mechanical teams to close the loop between test results and design iteration
• Establish structured flight test processes, documentation standards, and reporting frameworks
• Travel regularly to Merced, CA for flight operations and field testing (expenses covered)

Who You Are

Mission-Driven: You're passionate about solving big, complex problems through technology and driven by the chance to change industries.

Innovator: You thrive on the challenge of working with cutting-edge technologies and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Builder: You enjoy the excitement and impact of working at an early-stage startup where your contributions directly shape the future.