Flight Test Operator - Data Collector

Flight Test Operator - Data Collector - 12 Month Contract

Skydio is the leading U.S. drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best‑in‑class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users—from utility inspectors and first responders to soldiers in battlefield scenarios and beyond.

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Flight Test Operator to join Skydio’s data collection and flight testing team. In this role, you will conduct drone flight operations across a wide variety of environments and scenarios to gather the critical data that powers Skydio’s cutting‑edge autonomy and AI systems.

Based in Fort Collins, Colorado, this position involves significant travel to different locations across the U.S. and abroad (~95% of the time traveling). You will execute structured flight missions, capture sensor and telemetry data, and contribute to test campaigns that enable continuous improvement of Skydio’s products.

This is an hourly non‑exempt position with a 12‑month contract.

• Safely operate Skydio drones in diverse environments (urban, rural, industrial, forested, etc.) to collect data for product development and validation.
• Execute structured flight test plans, including repeatable scripted scenarios and exploratory flights.
• Collect, label, and manage high volumes of sensor, imagery, and telemetry data.
• Provide clear, detailed feedback on test results, anomalies, and environmental factors.
• Collaborate with Skydio’s engineering and autonomy teams to align on data needs, test objectives, and operational constraints.
• Maintain equipment, troubleshoot hardware/software issues, and ensure readiness for upcoming data collection campaigns.
• Travel 100% of the time to conduct data collection at various sites, test ranges, and field environments.

• Required:
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
  • Quarterly travel to HQ (San Mateo, CA) for Together Weeks
  • Proven experience operating drones in real‑world environments
  • Strong situational awareness and commitment to safe flight practices
  • Ability to follow structured procedures while adapting to changing field conditions
  • Flexibility and willingness to travel extensively across the U.S. and abroad
  • Strong communication and documentation skills
• Preferred:
  • Background in aviation, robotics, or field data collection
  • Experience with UAV flight testing, logging, or technical data capture
  • Familiarity with Skydio platforms or other advanced autonomous drone systems
  • Technical proficiency with computers, sensors, and troubleshooting

This fixed‑term position offers an hourly wage range of $30–$40 per hour. Compensation varies based on factors such as skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, geographic location, and experience. Fixed‑term employees may be eligible to participate in the company’s group health insurance plans after fulfilling tenure and waiting‑period requirements, subject to the terms and conditions of the plans.

At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local anti‑discrimination laws.

For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E‑Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E‑Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..