UAS Development Engineer & Pilot

Job Summary: The UAS Development Engineer & Pilot This role will lead the hands-on development, integration, testing, and piloting of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The role spans the full UAS development lifecycle, including design, fabrication, system integration, flight test execution, performance evaluation, and aircraft maintenance in support of defense and commercial applications.

Job Duties:

• UAS Development & Integration:
  Design, build, and integrate developmental UAS platforms, including frame construction, electronics installation, ground control system setup, and ArduPilot configuration and tuning. Develop flight test plans, aircraft limitations, and ground safety procedures in coordination with engineering and safety teams.
• Flight Test Execution & Operation:
  Pilot unmanned aircraft in both manual and autonomous modes. Execute flight tests and operational missions with real-time troubleshooting, live tuning, and telemetry monitoring. Analyze post-flight data logs to validate system performance and identify root causes of anomalies or failures.
• System Integration & Payload Testing:
  Integrate third-party payloads (EO/IR, LiDAR, RF, etc.) into UAS platforms and validate compatibility with ArduPilot systems. Work closely with software, mechanical, and systems engineers to ensure smooth sensor integration and mission functionality.
• Fleet & Maintenance Management:
  Maintain a fleet of developmental test aircraft in continuous airworthy condition. Build, instrument, and document test configurations. Track aircraft maintenance, firmware versions, parameter sets, and system logs to ensure mission readiness and safe operations.
• Engineering & Test Documentation:
  Develop and execute engineering ground and flight test procedures. Contribute to test planning, configuration management, data analysis, and formal reporting. Maintain an open issue tracker to document and resolve system-level problems.
• Field Operations & Demonstrations:
  Support field tests, customer demonstrations, and off-site flight operations. Travel may be required domestically and internationally.

This position will be based out of St. Petersburg, FL, candidates must be able to frequently travel to our facility.