Director, UAS Flight Operations
$110–$165,000 year
On-siteNew York City, New York, United States or New York, United States
New York City, New York, United States or New York, United StatesOn-siteFull Time$110–$165,000 yearSenior LevelAssociates DegreeLarge
Full TimeSenior LevelAssociates DegreeLarge
Job Summary
Plan daily flight tests on Group 1-3 UAS platforms, including multirotor, fixed-wing, and VTOL systems. Manage a small team of pilots and maintain all in-house aircraft. Interface with software and mechanical engineers to execute, report, and integrate payloads during operations. Maintain flight testing documentation and interpret technical specifications for test activities. Work in-office in Brooklyn, NY, with a relocation stipend provided. Full-time, in-person role requiring FAA Part 107 certification and US citizenship.
Required Qualifications
- US Citizenship
- FAA Part 107 Certification
- Significant experience planning flight test cards, considering test hardware, software versions, flight paths, safety protocols
- 2+ years experience managing at least 1 pilot
- Significant experience - PX4 / Ardupilot autopilot systems and MAVLINK
- Significant experience - flying Group 2-3 UAS
- Significant experience - ground control software including Q Ground Control and Mission Planner
- Strong understanding of 14 CFR Part 107 regulations and FAA airspace, and FAA waivers
- Strong understanding of drone electrical, mechanical, and software systems
- Technology background with troubleshooting skills and analytical research capabilities
- Must possess a driver's license and be willing to operate a motor vehicle
Desired Qualifications
- Proficiency with PX4/Ardupilot flight stacks and various GCS
- Collaboration with our engineering team will be crucial as you plan, execute, and report on test activities
- Success in this role hinges on your ability to adapt to new requirements and manage flight operations across multiple projects
- The ability to be self-sufficient and multi-task efficiently
- While a BS in Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace, Aviation, or a related field is preferred, we will consider equivalent professional experience
- The ability to interpret technical documentation and integrate payloads onto aircraft
- hands-on experience with small power tools, lab test equipment, soldering, and custom wiring harnesses
- Familiarity with basic electronics and troubleshooting (multimeter, oscilloscope etc)
- Qualifications to operate complex civilian or government UAS systems
- Military training as an Air Vehicle Operator (AVO) or Pilot in Command (PIC)
- Experience building custom drones or integrating drone components including custom payloads, cameras, sensing systems, hardware, electronics, wiring, GPS systems, autopilots, firmware, and software
- Background in software or computer science
- Proficiency in operating Linux, Ubuntu, Windows, and/or terminal commands
- Prior experience in software code/script building using programming languages
- Experience with prototype fabrication using 3D printing and/or CNC machining
- Ability to make independent decisions, troubleshoot, and repair electrical faults
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