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Sr. Flight Test Engineer

Job in San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California, 93403, USA
Listing for: Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc
Full Time position
Listed on 2026-07-20
Job specializations:
  • Engineering
    Aerospace / Aviation / Avionics, Test Engineer, Systems Engineer, Mechanical Engineer
Salary/Wage Range or Industry Benchmark: 110000 - 140000 USD Yearly USD 110000.00 140000.00 YEAR
Job Description & How to Apply Below

Senior Flight Test Engineer

We are seeking a self-motivated

Senior

Flight Test Engineer to join our team.

The engineer willassistin the multi-functional product development ofnew designs while collaborating with other engineering disciplines and project personnel.

You will play a crucial role inthe planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). You will work with cross-functional teams to develop test plans, conduct flight tests, and ensure that UAV systems meet performance, safety, and reliability standards. This position requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, a deep understanding of UAV systems, and experience in flight testing.

Thisrole involves working on multiple platforms and vehicles, supporting both ground andflight-testing operations.

Responsibilities and Duties
  • Provide testing and flight-testing support for company projects.
  • Develop andmaintainhigh-quality testing documentation to include detailed test plansthat describe objectives, methodologies, safety protocols, and resource requirements
  • Represent testing interests when collaborating with project teams.
  • Work with design engineers,systems engineers, and software developers to define specific test requirements and procedures and develop engineering test strategies for new and existing products.
  • Collaborate with assembly and engineering personnel to test prototype units and ensure proper execution and documentation.
  • Conduct pre-flight inspections and system checks to ensure the readiness of UAVs for testing.
  • Lead orparticipatein the execution of flight tests.
  • Monitor and analyze flight data in real-time to ensure the achievement of test objectives.
  • Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies to ensure safe operations.
  • Lead post-test debriefs toidentifylessons learned and incorporate them into future testing.
  • Work with field service personnel and engineers to create test procedures addressing specific product issuesobservedin the field.
  • Act as an engineering interface to resolve production test issues.
  • Train personnel in proper testing techniques.
  • Look for improvements throughout the testing process to reduce costs or improve test coverage.
  • Support the creation of system requirements, trade studies, sub-component, and flight test plans.
  • Coordinate with suppliers, internal and external integrated product teams.
  • Provide manufacturing,component test, and ground/flight test support.
  • Investigate anddetermineroot cause ofcomponentfailures and recommend corrective actions.
  • Develop engineering drawings, schematics, and design specifications.
  • Ensure circuit protection, isolation, redundancy, and fault tolerance for flight systems.
  • Present results through technical drawings, written reports, and oral presentations to customers and senior project management.
  • Mentor and guide junior flight test engineers
Required Qualifications and Skills
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent.
  • 5-8 years of experience in aerospace engineering, with at least 3-5 years in UAV flight testing or a closely related field. Hands-on experience in planning and conducting flight tests for unmanned systems.
  • Experience with power distribution systems theory, design, test, or analysis.
  • Experience with electric motor and controller/inverter theory, design, test, or analysis.
  • Able to work with high voltage (>500V).
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in flight test software and simulation tools.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Understanding of structures, mechanisms, system layout, materials, and processes.
  • Experience with data collection and reduction software (Lab View,Mat Lab).
  • Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Experience with Solid Works and Solid Works PDM (or similar).
  • Structural or thermal analysis of structures and systems.
  • Part 107pilot qualified, or ability to obtain
  • US Citizenship Required.
Desired Qualifications and Skills
  • Master’s degree in Aero or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent and/or 5+ years of experience.
  • Familiarity with electronics testing.
  • Experience with digital communication protocols such as SPI,…
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