UAS Test Pilot

The UAS Test Pilot plays a critical role in the testing, training, and deployment of Swift's Unmanned Aerial Systems. This position is responsible for remotely piloting fixed-wing Group I, II, and III UAVs, operating Ground Control Stations (GCS), and developing key documentation. As part of an innovative team, the pilot will support the advancement of Swift's domestic and international UAS programs through hands-on development, flight testing, training, and operational support.

FLSA Status : Exempt

Reports to : Engineering Manager

Salary : $120,000 to $175,000 Annually

Duties and Responsibilities

Remotely pilot Group I, II, and III fixed-wing UAVs during flight testing and customer demonstrations

Operate Ground Control Stations (GCS) for UAS during all stages of flight

Develop and maintain UAS documentation including operations manuals, emergency procedures, and training materials

Conduct training for personnel on UAS operation, piloting, and GCS usage

Exercise independent judgment and problem-solving during manufacturing, flight testing, and operational scenarios

Manage UAS batteries to ensure readiness and safety

Operate and maintain launch and recovery systems as required

Perform site surveys and risk assessments for flight operations

Coordinate with FAA, air traffic control, and local authorities to ensure safe and legal operations

Apply knowledge of airspace classifications, restrictions, and waiver processes

Adhere to and help implement Safety Management Systems (SMS) or similar safety protocols

Respond calmly and effectively to in-flight and operational emergencies

Support system design, integration, and prototype assembly of UAS

Assist with proposal writing, product estimation, and customer interface

Collect, process, or analyze operational data for performance evaluation

Participate in and occasionally lead team meetings

Domestic and international travel required

Qualifications

4+ years of experience operating Group 1–3 UAS (e.g., fixed-wing, VTOL, multirotor

2+ years' experience operating GCS for UAS

Knowledge of UAS flight dynamics, ground control software, and mission planning tools

2+ years' experience in flight test support

Experience flying and supporting Group I, II, and III fixed-wing UAS

Experience developing operational manuals, training materials, and flight documentation

Knowledge of national and international airspace regulations, waiver processes, and compliance

Familiarity with safety systems like SMS

In-depth knowledge of UAS emergency procedures and contingency protocols

Experience with data collection and analysis in UAS mission environments

Hands-on experience building or integrating UAS hardware and systems

Must have a valid passport

Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills in field and mission-critical scenarios

Preferred

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

B.S. in Engineering or related technical field, or equivalent experience

Skills and Abilities

Strong piloting and GCS operation skills

Ability to work independently or as part of a cross-functional team

Capable of meeting time-sensitive milestones under tight deadlines

Excellent communication (written and verbal), documentation, and interpersonal skills

High attention to detail with proactive problem-solving mindset

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite : Excel, Word, Outlook, MS Project

Working Conditions

Primarily Office Environment

Office, shop, and outdoor flight test environments

Periodic weekend or evening work expected

Travel—both domestic and international—is required

Must be "US PERSON" per ITAR requirements due to our contracts.

9 / 80 Schedule

Health Insurance - 100% covered for Employees

Vision Insurance - 100% covered for Employees

Dental Insurance - 100% covered for Employees

Life Insurance - 100% covered by Swift, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.

401k with company match

Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a holiday hiatus in December, and highly competitive PTO plans.

16 weeks of paid Caregiver & Wellness Leave to care for a family member, bond with your baby, or tend to your own medical condition.

Family Planning & Parenting Support : Fertility (eg, IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carrier coverage with additional benefits and resources to provide support from planning to parenting.

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