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Flight Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kelly Services

Flight Test Operator

Bay Point, CA · On-site

UAS Flight Test Operator (I & II), Labs Location: Bay Point, CA for first 2-3 months then Petaluma, CA Contract - 6+ months (possibility for Direct hire based on performance/experience) Openings: 10 ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Operator

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$77K - $120K/yr

Familiarity with flight controllers and autopilot logic. * Significant knowledge and understanding of National Airspace regulations and operating restrictions * Must have strong communication and ...

System Dynamics Intl

MQ-9 Sensor Operator

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$78.94 - $83.73/hr

Sensor Operators will perform duties as flight test crew members employing airborne sensors. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Test Planning and Execution Review test plans, test cards, and other ...

Zipline

Flight Test Operator - Esparto,CA

Esparto, CA · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

About You and The Role You are a hands-on Flight Test Operator focused on executing high-volume flight testing that proves the safety, reliability, and operational readiness of Zipline's aircraft and ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

Flight Test Operator II

Moorpark, CA · On-site

$23 - $35/hr

Worker Type Regular Summary The Flight Test Operator II is responsible for performing functional flight tests of AeroVironment's Unmanned Air Vehicles and equipment for quality assurance purposes.

AeroVironment

Flight Test Operator II

Moorpark, CA · On-site

$23 - $35/hr

Worker Type Regular Summary The Flight Test Operator II is responsible for performing functional flight tests of AeroVironment's Unmanned Air Vehicles and equipment for quality assurance purposes.

Icarus

Flight Operations Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

The Flight Operations Engineer takes our aircraft from the hangar to the sky and back, and owns the ... When Icarus goes to the field, you are both the operator and the engineer in the loop. Mission Re ...

Icarus

Flight Operations Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

The Flight Operations Engineer takes our aircraft from the hangar to the sky and back, and owns the ... When Icarus goes to the field, you are both the operator and the engineer in the loop. Mission Re ...

Icarus

Flight Operations Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

The Flight Operations Engineer takes our aircraft from the hangar to the sky and back, and owns the ... When Icarus goes to the field, you are both the operator and the engineer in the loop. Mission Re ...

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Flight Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$27

$46

How much do flight operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight operator in California is $27.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $28.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flight operator?

Flight Operators are professionals responsible for managing and coordinating the logistical and operational aspects of flights. Their duties typically include flight planning, monitoring aircraft movements, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, and communicating with pilots and air traffic control. They play a crucial role in ensuring flights operate safely, efficiently, and on schedule. Flight Operators may work for airlines, private charter companies, or government agencies, and often work in shifts to provide 24/7 coverage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Operator, you need a solid understanding of aviation regulations, flight planning, and air traffic control procedures, often supported by a relevant degree or certification in aviation management. Familiarity with flight scheduling software, dispatch systems, and weather monitoring tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with pilots, crew, and ground staff. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations in a dynamic and high-stakes environment.

What are some common challenges faced by flight operators and how are they typically addressed?

Flight Operators often face challenges such as coordinating flight schedules amid rapidly changing weather conditions, managing communication between pilots and ground crews, and ensuring strict compliance with aviation regulations. These challenges are typically addressed through advanced planning, the use of specialized flight operations software, and close collaboration with air traffic controllers and maintenance teams. Strong organizational and decision-making skills are essential, as is the ability to adapt quickly to unforeseen events to ensure safety and efficiency.

What cities in California are hiring for Flight Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Flight Operator job openings:

Flight Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,100 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Flight Test Operator

Bay Point, CA • On-site

Kelly Services
See more jobs at Kelly Servicesexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

UAS Flight Test Operator (I & II), LabsLocation: Bay Point, CA for first 2-3 months then Petaluma, CA
Contract – 6+ months (possibility for Direct hire based on performance/experience)
Openings: 10
Benefits: Eligible
Onsite Meal reimbursement up to $25/day
 About the TeamDoorDash Labs is an independent team within DoorDash. We explore robotics and automation to transform last-mile logistics in the long term. If you have a passion for applying autonomous aviation technologies in a service used by millions of people, then we want to talk to you!
About the Role
In this role as a UAS Flight Test Operator I/II, you’ll be part of a hands-on field testing team supporting flight validation of new drone platforms. You’ll work closely with engineering and flight leads to execute test flights safely, efficiently, and with precision—helping shape the future of autonomous aerial systems. You will be reporting to the Flight Test Lead.
  • Execute structured drone test flights in both manual and autonomous modes, adjusting flight parameters in real time based on evolving test plans and feedback.
  • Support daily test readiness by performing pre- and post-flight checks, managing batteries, preparing equipment, and assisting with on-site logistics.
  • Operate in field environments with extended periods of standing, repetitive drone handling, and outdoor exposure to varying weather (heat, dust, cold, wind, etc.).
  • Stay flexible and responsive to shifting schedules, including early mornings, late afternoons, and variable hours based on test conditions. Open to about 20% travel.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to surface observations, flag anomalies, and support iterative improvement cycles during testing.
Please note: This is an onsite role based in Bay Point, CA and will be in Petaluma in the coming months.. Only candidates who are local or within commuting distance will be considered. You’re excited about this opportunity because you will… 
  • Operate and test drones as part of cutting-edge autonomous delivery development.
  • Support flight testing, data collection, and troubleshooting for new drone systems.
  • Work closely with engineering and operations teams to provide feedback and improve drone performance.
  • Gain hands-on experience in emerging technology, working with a team in a fast-paced, iterative environment.
  • Contribute to building the future of drone delivery through curiosity, adaptability, and a proactive mindset.
  • Support daily test readiness by managing batteries, preparing equipment, and spearheading on-site logistics.
 We’re excited about you because… 
  • You’re Certified: You hold a Part 107 certification and have logged over 50+ flight hours in varied environments.
  • FAA certification is a “required qualification”: We collect FAA certification details solely to confirm eligibility for this position
  • You Know the Airspace: You understand FAA regulations, operational risk, and best practices for safe and compliant drone flight.
  • You’re Tech-Savvy and Curious: You’re excited about testing new drone technology and enjoy solving technical problems in real-time.
  • You Think Critically: You bring analytical thinking and attention to detail to identify issues, document results, and iterate on improvements.
  • You know Firmware: You've worked with PX4, ArduPilot, Auterion, or Herelink-based systems. (Preferred not required)
  • You’ve Been on the Frontlines: You've contributed to drone development, aerospace, or robotic testing programs.
  • You Collaborate Well: You work effectively with cross-functional teams—especially engineers, operators, and leadership to drive progress.
  • You have hands on skills: You have the ability to fly different flight modes to help collect data and provide feedback on new drones.
  • You Communicate Clearly: You share insights and updates with clarity and purpose, whether it’s writing flight logs, surfacing blockers, or presenting findings.
Because this position requires an active FAA certificate, we’ll need to verify your license through the FAA Airmen Inquiry system during the interview process. You will be required to provide your FAA certificate number so we can confirm your credentials. We use this information solely to verify eligibility for the role and handle it securely.
Why Join Us?
You'll be on the front lines of aerial innovation, directly contributing to the development and validation of new drone systems. This is a high-impact, high-autonomy role where your field skills, judgment, and communication  directly  shape  product  safety,  performance,  and  readiness.  Expect  meaningful  work,  fast iteration, and a chance to help define the future of drone logistics.
 
As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Please note: The following benefits reflect Kelly's general offerings. Eligibility may vary by assignment, location, and job type. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Why Kelly® Engineering?

Your engineering skills are in demand, but how do you find the right fit? Easy. At Kelly Engineering, our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world’s most critical challenges. We connect you with leading organizations where you can collaborate on innovative projects, work with cutting-edge technologies and accelerate your growth. Whether you prefer the variety and flexibility of short-term projects or are looking for a long-term opportunity, we’re here to guide you to the next step in your engineering career.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
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