Role & seniority: Experimental UAV Test Pilot (prototype-focused; hands-on, mid-to-senior level)

Stack/tools: PX4/ArduPilot tuning; multi-rotor UAVs; structured test cards; flight logs/telemetry; propulsion, avionics, batteries, GSE; safety/checklists

Top 3 responsibilities

Conduct disciplined experimental flight tests to expand flight envelope; maintain full logs and data for engineering analysis
Tune controllers (PID) and demonstrate measurable stability improvements; record parameter deltas and effects
Diagnose flight issues (vibration, tuning, propulsion, sensors); collaborate with engineering to refine builds and inform iterations

Must-have skills

FAA Part 107 certification; strong prototype UAV piloting judgment
PID tuning proficiency (PX4/ArduPilot); structured troubleshooting and log analysis
Technical documentation; safety discipline and pre/post-flight routines
Knowledge of propulsion, avionics, batteries, GSE; hands-on building/modifying UAVs
Ability to operate outdoors in variable conditions; travel to test sites

Nice-to-haves

Ownership mindset; end-to-end project execution
Ability to balance speed and quality; attention to detail
Efficient, organized workflow; iterative problem solving
Collaboration and humility; cross-functional teamwork
Location & work type: Outdoors, variable conditions; travel to test sites; Part 107-compliant operation environment

Full Description

The Job

We’re hiring an Experimental UAV Test Pilot to accelerate development of next-generation heavy-lift UAV prototypes.
Your mission is to own safe, disciplined flight testing that generates high-quality data and actionable engineering feedback, enabling rapid iteration and flight-envelope expansion on new platforms.
You’ll be hands-on flying experimental multi-rotors in varied configurations and conditions, tuning PX4/ArduPilot systems, validating new builds, and diagnosing flight behaviors.
This role requires comfort operating prototype aircraft, executing structured test plans, and collaborating directly with engineering to refine hardware, software, and controls.

What You'll Do

Execute experimental flight tests to meet envelope-expansion goals (payload, wind, modes), following structured test cards and maintaining full logs.
Tune PX4/ArduPilot controllers and show measurable stability and responsiveness improvements; record parameter deltas and impact after each flight.
Run disciplined pre/post-flight routines (checklists, airworthiness, debriefs).
Diagnose flight issues—vibration, tuning, propulsion, sensor faults—and provide concise findings that reduce engineering turnaround time.
Capture high-quality data and ensure all logs, anomalies, and tuning changes are usable for engineering analysis.
Maintain safe operations under Part 107, proactively identifying hazards and managing range conditions.
Collaborate with engineering to refine builds, troubleshoot hardware/software, and inform design iterations based on flight behavior.

What We’re Looking For

FAA Part 107 certification
Strong piloting judgment with prototype and non-consumer UAVs
PID tuning proficiency (PX4, ArduPilot)
Skilled in structured troubleshooting, log analysis, and technical documentation
Checklist-driven safety discipline
Solid understanding of propulsion, avionics, batteries, and GSE
Hands-on experience building or modifying custom UAVs
Willing to work outdoors in variable conditions and travel to test sites

Beyond technical skills, we value

Ownership mentality — take projects from idea to execution
Balance of velocity and quality — move fast, but with rigor; high standards and attention to detail
Efficiency & follow-through — keeps operations unblocked and organized
Iterative problem solving — breakdown complex problems, prototype, and refine
Kindness and humility — thrive in collaborative, mission-driven cross-functional teams

Experimental UAV Test Pilot