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Fixed Wing UAS Test Pilot job at Swift Engineering. San Clemente, CA.

The UAS Test Pilot plays a critical role in the testing, training, and deployment of Swift’s Unmanned Aerial Systems. This position is responsible for remotely piloting fixed‐wing Group I, II, and III UAVs, operating Ground Control Stations (GCS), and developing key documentation. As part of an innovative team, the pilot will support the advancement of Swift’s domestic and international UAS programs through hands‑on development, flight testing, training, and operational support.

FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports to: Engineering Manager

Salary: $120,000 to $175,000 Annually

• Act as External Pilot for Group I, II, and III fixed‑wing UAVs during flight testing and customer demonstrations
• Operate Ground Control Stations (GCS) for UAS during all stages of flight
• Develop and maintain UAS documentation including operations manuals, emergency procedures, and training materials
• Conduct training for personnel on UAS operation, piloting, and GCS usage
• Exercise independent judgment and problem‑solving during manufacturing, flight testing, and operational scenarios
• Manage UAS batteries to ensure readiness and safety
• Operate and maintain launch and recovery systems as required
• Perform site surveys and risk assessments for flight operations
• Coordinate with FAA, air traffic control, and local authorities to ensure safe and legal operations
• Apply knowledge of airspace classifications, restrictions, and waiver processes
• Adhere to and help implement Safety Management Systems (SMS) or similar safety protocols
• Respond calmly and effectively to in‑flight and operational emergencies
• Support system design, integration, and prototype assembly of UAS
• Assist with proposal writing, product estimation, and customer interface
• Collect, process, or analyze operational data for performance evaluation
• Participate in and occasionally lead team meetings
• Domestic and international travel required

• 5+ years of experience flying RC fixed wing non‑augmented or artificially stabilized aircraft
• Knowledge of UAS flight dynamics, ground control software, and mission planning tools
• 2+ years’ experience in flight test support
• Experience flying and supporting Group I, II, and III fixed‑wing UAS
• Experience developing operational manuals, training materials, and flight documentation
• Knowledge of national and international airspace regulations, waiver processes, and compliance
• Familiarity with safety systems like SMS
• In-depth knowledge of UAS emergency procedures and contingency protocols
• Experience with data collection and analysis in UAS mission environments
• Hands‑on experience building or integrating UAS hardware and systems
• Must have a valid passport
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills in field and mission‑critical scenarios

• 4+ years of experience operating Group 1–3 Fixed‑Wing UAS
• 2+ years’ experience operating GCS for UAS
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• B.S. in Engineering or related technical field, or equivalent experience

• Strong RC piloting and GCS operation skills
• Strong composites construction and repair experience
• Ability to work independently or as part of a cross‑functional team
• Capable of meeting time‑sensitive milestones under tight deadlines
• Excellent communication (written and verbal), documentation, and interpersonal skills
• High attention to detail with proactive problem‑solving mindset
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite: Excel, Word, Outlook, MS Project

• Primarily Office Environment
• Office, shop, and outdoor flight test environments
• Periodic weekend or evening work expected
• Travel—both domestic and international—is required

Must be “US PERSON” per ITAR requirements due to our contracts.

• 9/80 Schedule
• Health Insurance – 100% covered for Employees
• Vision Insurance – 100% covered for Employees
• Dental Insurance – 100% covered for Employees
• Life Insurance – 100% covered by Swift, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
• 401k with company match
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a holiday hiatus in December, and highly competitive PTO plans.
• 16 weeks of paid Caregiver & Wellness Leave to care for a family member, bond with your baby, or tend to your own medical condition.
• Family Planning & Parenting Support: Fertility (eg, IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carrier coverage with additional benefits and resources to provide support from planning to parenting.