UAS Development Engineer & Pilot

Job Description

Job DescriptionDescription:

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.

Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, Mechanical, Electrical, Software Engineering, or equivalent technical discipline
• Minimum 5 years of engineering experience, with at least 3 years in UAS or aircraft system development
• Minimum 3 years of ArduPilot piloting and system integration experience (required), including:
  • Manual and autonomous flight operation using ArduPilot-based systems
  • Flight controller configuration and tuning (PID, failsafe logic, mission profiles)
  • Integration of sensors, payloads, and GCS software (Mission Planner, QGroundControl)
  • Log analysis, troubleshooting, and performance optimization
• Demonstrated experience in engineering test planning, hands-on aircraft development, and field testing
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required or must be obtained within 60 days of hire)
• Proficient in data analysis, flight telemetry review, test documentation, and performance reporting
• Experience piloting UAS or manned aircraft under real-world conditions
• Familiarity with multirotor, fixed-wing, and VTOL aircraft platforms
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Must be a U.S. Person (citizen or lawful permanent resident)
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with payload integration (e.g., EO/IR sensors, LiDAR, RF payloads)
• Background in autonomous flight, GCS scripting, or swarm coordination
• Familiarity with scripting/customization of ArduPilot missions using Lua or MAVLink
• Familiarity with Linux systems and embedded software development
• Knowledge of FAA UAS flight regulations, airworthiness best practices, and safety protocols
• Prior exposure to DoD programs or military flight test environments

Additional Requirement:

You must have, or be eligible to obtain, a Department of Defense Secret clearance. You will be subject to government security investigations and must be able to access classified information. The inability to obtain a security clearance will result in you being ineligible for the position.