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Allen Control Systems
Actively hiring

Flight Test Engineer & Pilot

Workplace
Hybrid
Commitment
Contract
Posted
Location
San Francisco, United States

We are looking for a Flight Test Engineer & Pilot to help organize and execute flight testing of a high-performance fixed-wing UAV. The role involves owning flight test operations end-to-end: identifying safe and legal test locations, preparing flight plans and safety processes, and serving as or supporting remote Pilot-in-Command (PIC).

Responsibilities

  • Manually fly and land a high-performance fixed-wing UAV (~20 kg, ~100 mph) in both FPV and line-of-sight configurations; perform pre-flight checks and make go/no-go calls with confidence on early, less-than-fully-tuned airframes.
  • Lead flight operations in compliance with Part 107 and applicable regulations; serve as or support remote Pilot-in-Command; provide feedback on airframe and controller performance after each flight.
  • Identify and secure suitable test locations; coordinate with landowners or relevant authorities as needed; help design and implement takeoff and landing solutions (catapult, truck launch, or landing gear).
  • Develop flight plans and safety processes for each test event; support the engineering team in translating test objectives into structured, safe flight profiles.

Requirements

  • Demonstrated experience manually flying high-performance fixed-wing UAVs of significant mass and speed; comfort with both FPV and line-of-sight flight on aircraft that are not fully automated or tuned.
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate with recent, active experience leading business flight operations and serving as remote PIC.
  • Strong safety mindset with the judgment to make independent go/no-go calls and identify risk before and during flight operations.

Nice to have

  • Experience with experimental or prototype UAV platforms where automation and tuning are still in development.
  • Background in defense, aerospace, or autonomous systems development.
  • Experience siting and permitting flight test areas, or familiarity with airspace authorization tools such as LAANC.
  • Engineering background or ability to read and interpret avionics, telemetry, and flight control data.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary
  • ACS Equity Package
  • Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off