Test Engineer

The Baby Airship team is seeking a dedicated test engineer to contribute to flight test operations of a sub-scale model. The role involves preparing for and executing weekly flight tests, conducting hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) lab testing, and analyzing flight data to improve the fidelity of the sub-scale model. The engineer will work across mechanical, software, and GNC domains, integrating with flight prototyping workflows and collaborating with the team to validate flight software and hardware.

Responsibilities

• Flight Test Operations: Prepare for, execute, and troubleshoot weekly flight test operations of our sub-scale airship model
• HIL Simulation: Conduct and troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) lab testing to validate flight software and hardware integrations
• Flight Data & Analytics: Analyze flight logs and test data to feed performance insights back into the GNC and sub-scale simulation models
• Mechanical: Design and iteration of lightweight structural components for the Baby Airship
• Software: Development of flight control logic, telemetry processing, or embedded systems (C++/Python)
• GNC: Work alongside GNC engineers to author flight test plans and analyze vehicle dynamics

Requirements

• Experience: 3+ years in aerospace, robotics, or high-reliability hardware environments
• Coding Skills: Proficiency in Python or C++ programming
• Flight Software & Protocols: Hands-on experience with PX4 Flight Control Software and CAN communication protocols
• Hardware Aptitude: Working knowledge of DC motors and ESC hardware
• Design Tools: Familiarity with standard CAD software
• Mindset: Proven ability to thrive in a rapid "build-test-fail-fix" iteration cycle with strong cross-functional communication skills

Nice to have

• Experience piloting drones/UAVs or working with flight testing operations
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting low-level electrical hardware issues
• Familiarity with MATLAB and Simulink for system modeling

Benefits

• Relocation assistance
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
• Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
• Parental leave
• Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
• 401(k) matching up to 6%
• Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
• Monthly wellness stipend
• Monthly cell phone stipend
• Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
• Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
• An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields