Drone Visual Observer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Who we are

Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We design and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are tested in combat, iterated at startup speed, and built at massive scale. Our team culture is fast, hands-on, and obsessed with closing the gap between design and deployment.

As drones transform the character of warfare, Neros is delivering the systems the West needs to compete on the modern battlefield and deter the adversaries of democracy. We're hiring engineers, operators, and builders who want to move fast, take on extreme ownership, and get capability into the hands of warfighters in months, not years.

What you will be doing

Neros is seeking FPV Technicians to support our R&D and flight testing. This position focuses on building and maintaining prototype aerial systems, and supporting flight test campaigns in the field. You'll work closely with Test Pilots and engineers to ensure that all equipment is prepared, tests are thoroughly documented, and act as Visual Observer in flight tests.

The ideal candidate has a strong FPV drone background, is comfortable building a variety of drone sizes, has excellent organizational skills, and a genuine passion for UAV technology. This role plays a large part in advancing product reliability, streamlining flight test operations, and maintaining the performance of our drone fleet and equipment.

Responsibilities

R&D Equipment

• Build, repair, and maintain FPV drones and R&D test articles
• Support the maintenance and improvement of flight testing tools, equipment, and lab organization
• Providing feedback to engineers on user experience, durability, field testing success
• Perform soldering, wiring, and mechanical assembly of FPV drones
• Track and organize R&D drones and parts, and keep serialization and equipment records accurate

Field Operational Scope

• This is not a Pilot-in-Command role. Test flights are flown by designated pilots.
• Assist pilots and test leads during flight testing as visual observer and ground support
• Evaluate and provide feedback to improve test operations
• Pre-flight and post-flight inspections and functional checks on testing equipment
• Record test notes, observations, and flight data; finalize the test record with blackbox and DVR attached
• Site setup and teardown: staging area, charging, equipment layout, comms check
• Equipment accountability for the duration of the test; every drone, GCS, battery, and peripheral is tracked
• Follow internal safety protocols and applicable FAA regulations; evaluate and improve operational safety practices on site

Travel

• Field-heavy role with multi-day deployments to remote test sites, including overnights during the week
• Sites include desert environments with sustained high heat and long operating days
• Occasional out of state travel may be required
• Valid driver's license required; lift and carry up to 50 lbs

You should have the following

• Strong understanding of UAV components
• Skilled in soldering and mechanical assembly
• Comfortable operating power tools and shop machinery
• Proven experience setting up and running field operations
• Ability to operate in unpredictable outdoor environments
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills
• Strong communication skills and attention to detail
• Ability to drive large vehicles in off-road environments

Nice to have

• Strong hands-on FPV drone build experience
• Experience building larger FPV drones (10", 13", and up)
• Knowledge of Betaflight and ESC software
• Acro FPV drone piloting
• Experience with CAD and 3D printing
• FAA Part 107 certification

US Salary Range

$70,304 - $91,500 USD

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are considered part of Neros' total compensation package.

We're an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all applicants without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.