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UAS Test Pilot - Contract
UAS Test Pilot - ContractGrid Aero, Inc. • San Leandro, CA, US
UAS Test Pilot - Contract

UAS Test Pilot - Contract

Grid Aero, Inc. • San Leandro, CA, US
1 day ago
Job type
  • Permanent
  • Quick Apply
Job description

About Us :

  • Grid.aero is a VC-backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense and commercial markets.
  • We are focused on solving real-world problems that will shape the future of the industry.
  • Led by aerospace veterans and supported by leading venture firms, Grid is at the forefront of developing autonomous systems that will revolutionize how goods move through the skies.
  • Be part of a fast-growing, high-impact startup from day one.
  • At Grid, your work will shape critical industries, driving innovation at the intersection of national security and global commerce.

Role Overview :

  • Grid Aero is seeking an Experimental Test Pilot (Contract) to execute the flight testing of our large, fixed-wing autonomous aircraft.
  • You will operate cutting-edge systems from the ground control station, help shape test plans, and execute developmental and envelope-expansion flights that push the frontier of autonomous aviation.
  • Working closely with engineering, operations, and safety teams, you’ll turn prototypes into proven aircraft, translating flight data into insights that accelerate Grid’s path to certification and deployment.

    • You will champion a “test often, test safely” culture, driving disciplined, high-frequency testing that balances learning velocity with flight test safety best practices and process.  What You’ll Do :

  • Operate Grid’s fixed-wing autonomous aircraft from the ground control station during flight test campaigns.
  • Develop and execute detailed test plans, support FRR preparation, and lead daily brief and debrief sessions.
  • Take part in simulation, training, and flight rehearsals to validate aircraft systems and test procedures.
  • Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to plan, execute, and document developmental flight testing.
  • Contribute to the creation and refinement of flight procedures, test cards, and operational checklists.
  • Provide feedback on aircraft handling qualities, human factors, automation behavior, and system performance to guide iterative improvements in the aircraft and interfaces.

    • Who You Are :

  • A mission-driven test pilot who thrives on pushing the edge of what’s possible in large, uncrewed  aircraft.
  • A disciplined aviator who balances technical precision with safety-first judgment in dynamic test environments.
  • A collaborative teammate who communicates clearly across engineering, operations, and program management.
  • A self-starter comfortable with the ambiguity and problem-solving pace of prototype development.

    • Required Qualifications :

  • FAA Commercial Pilot (AMEL) with 1,500+ total fixed-wing hours, including multi-engine experience.
  • Hands-on experience in experimental or developmental flight test programs, including ground testing and test build up.
  • Background in large fly-by-wire aircraft testing, including remote piloting of UAS or optionally piloted vehicles.
  • Broad flight experience across multiple single- and multi-engine aircraft types.
  • Experience authoring or contributing to flight procedures, checklists, and test documentation.
  • Bachelor’s degree in STEM Willingness to travel regularly to the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Valley of California.

    • Preferred Qualifications :

  • Graduation from a recognized Test Pilot School.
  • Experience in a startup aircraft development program.
  • Background as a Instructor / Evaluator or mentor to flight test teams.

    • Why Join Grid.aero :

  • Mission First : Tackle some of the most important national security issues of the day.

    • Ownership :

  • Receive a significant equity stake and help build the future of Grid.aero.

    • Impact :

  • As one of our first hires, you’ll have a direct and visible impact on the success of the company.

    • Innovation :

  • Lead the architecture of a game-changing product that will redefine the air logistics industry.

    • Growth :

  • Work alongside experienced aerospace founders and grow with the company as a key technical leader.

    • Compensation :

  • $80-120 / hr Equal Opportunity Employer : Grid.aero is an equal opportunity employer.
  • We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
  • All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

    • Legal Notice :

  • This position must meet export control compliance requirements.
  • To meet export control compliance requirements, a “U.S.
  • Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.15 is required. “U.S.
  • Person” includes U.S.
  • Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
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