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Suas Flight Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flight Test Engineer

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$112 - $149/hr

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Ghost sUAS platform. Ghost is a Group 2 autonomous vehicle specializing in intelligence ...

New

R&D Drone Test Pilot

Seattle, WA · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

BRINC is seeking an experienced sUAS Pilot to support flight testing operations at our off‑site ... Knowledge and experience operating in US airspace. * 3+ years experience with commercial or public ...

New

$86 - $114/hr

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Ghost sUAS platform. Ghost is a Group 2 autonomous vehicle specializing in intelligence ...

New

This role is well suited for candidates seeking to grow into advanced test engineering or flight ... Experience operating or supporting sUAS platforms, including multi-rotor or fixed-wing systems, in ...

Showing results 21-40

Suas Flight Operator information

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$14

$28

$47

How much do suas flight operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for suas flight operator in the United States is $28.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sUAS flight operator?

SUAS Flight Operators are professionals responsible for piloting small unmanned aerial systems (SUAS), commonly known as drones, for various purposes such as surveillance, mapping, photography, or inspection. They plan and execute flight missions, ensure compliance with aviation regulations, and maintain the operational readiness of the drone equipment. These operators may work in sectors like agriculture, construction, public safety, or the military. Their role often includes pre-flight checks, risk assessments, and post-flight data analysis. Proper certification and training are typically required to operate SUAS commercially or in regulated environments.

What are some common challenges sUAS flight operators face when coordinating unmanned aerial system (UAS) missions with other teams?

Suas Flight Operators often encounter challenges related to communication and coordination with other departments, such as air traffic control, ground crews, and data analysis teams. Ensuring flight schedules do not conflict with manned aircraft operations and adhering to rapidly changing regulations can be complex. Additionally, operators must be proactive in troubleshooting technical issues and adapting to unexpected weather or environmental changes. Developing strong collaborative skills and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of regulations are key to overcoming these challenges effectively.

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

To thrive as a sUAS Flight Operator, you need proficiency in drone piloting, knowledge of airspace regulations, and FAA Part 107 certification. Familiarity with mission planning software, GPS navigation systems, and data collection tools is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving, and effective communication skills help operators manage flight safety, adapt to changing environments, and collaborate with teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring compliance, mission success, and the safe, efficient operation of unmanned aerial systems.

What is the difference between Suas Flight Operator vs Paragliding Instructor?

AspectSuas Flight OperatorParagliding Instructor
Required CertificationsSuas Flight Operator License, pilot certificationParagliding Instructor Certification, pilot license
Work EnvironmentAircraft operation, aerial tours, commercial flightsGround and air instruction, training sessions
Employer & IndustryAviation companies, tour operatorsFlying schools, adventure sports companies

Suas Flight Operators and Paragliding Instructors both require pilot certifications and work in aerial environments. However, Suas Flight Operators focus on aircraft operation for commercial purposes, while Paragliding Instructors primarily teach and supervise recreational flying. Both roles involve safety oversight and certification compliance, but their work settings and responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Suas Flight Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Suas Flight Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Suas Flight Operator job openings:

What states have the most Suas Flight Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Suas Flight Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Suas Flight Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,871 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer

Anduril Industries

San Clemente, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,610 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century's most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
The Test and Evaluation team at Anduril plays a crucial role in our mission , ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Our team conducts full system level development testing, new production acceptance testing, software validation testing and much more. This position is looking for a highly motivated flight test engineer with emphasis in software/hardware capability development and evaluation for the Ghost sUAS platform. Ghost is a Group 2 autonomous vehicle specializing in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. You will be responsible for the evaluation of the software and hardware capabilities for operational suitability as well as Ghost's integration into the full suite of Anduril systems to complete complex operations.
What you'll do
  • As a Flight Test Engineer you will partner with the Ghost engineering to be responsible for test planning, execution, reporting, and evaluating the system under test (software and/or hardware).
  • Test duties include:
  • Supporting daily flight test operations and campaigns at multiple test locations. Candidate will support and plan test events in support of the product roadmap and production schedule.
  • With guidance, manage and oversee a sound configuration management plan and of test assets in preparation for multiple test campaigns.
  • Manage an inventory plan to keep all assets fully mission capable and ready for test.
  • Prepare for test readiness reviews, safety review boards, and operational test readiness. Create and disseminate test reports that create awareness for all stakeholders on system status in varying test campaigns and/or initiatives.
  • Generate and oversee the execution of test cards, pre- and post-flight briefings, and manage test events with a broad support team (pilots, engineering subject matter experts, senior FTEs, etc.).
  • Collaborate with SMEs and cross functional teams within the business line through development and production testing, reporting of test findings, and test status. This includes adjudication of testing tasks and characterization of issues, observations, and detailing results.
  • Interface daily with hardware and software engineering teams.
  • Collect metrics and report on metrics that highlight product performance, progression, and maturity.
Required Qualifications
  • Educational Background:
    • A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related technical discipline from an accredited institution.
    • Master's degree in a relevant field is a plus.
  • Aviation Experience:
    • 3-5 years of experience in flight testing, flight test planning, or aviation systems development.
    • Hands-on experience with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, or aircraft systems integration is strongly preferred.
  • Flight Test Knowledge:
    • Understanding of flight test principles, including test planning, execution, and data analysis.
    • Familiarity with test card development, safety risk assessments, and test methodology.
  • Technical Aptitude:
    • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to quickly understand new technical concepts and apply them effectively.
    • Ability to assess and mitigate technical risks during flight testing.
  • Communication Skills:
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
    • Capable of clearly documenting test plans, procedures, and results.
    • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across teams, including engineering, program management, and operations.
  • Regulatory Knowledge:
    • Current or ability to obtain FAA 14 CFR Part 107 certification for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
    • Knowledge of FAA regulations and National Airspace procedures, particularly as they relate to manned and unmanned aircraft operations is a plus.
  • Security Requirements:
    • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
  • Work Environment Flexibility:
    • Willingness and ability to work extended hours as required.
    • Willingness and ability to conduct field testing in diverse outdoor environments, including exposure to sun, heat, and occasional rain.
    • Comfortable with hands-on work that involves physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and setting up test equipment.
    • Ability to occasionally lift and move objects weighing up to 80 lbs (e.g., drone systems) with appropriate assistance and safety measures.
    • Ability to travel for test planning, execution, and customer engagements.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong software and documentation experience; familiarity with Linux-based operating systems. Experience with GitHub, CircleCI, ssh, bash, and command line.
  • Knowledge and experience with Group 1/2 rotary systems that utilize commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) flight control systems and Ardupilot firmware.
  • Experience working DoD programs.
  • Familiarity with remote operations and ground control stations.
  • Prior experience with military or civilian flight test operations.
  • Direct experience working with UAS platforms or autonomous systems.
  • Test Pilot School experience or equivalent training is highly desirable.

US Salary Range
$112,000-$149,000 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 offer 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 included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Benefits
At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Recruitment Scams
Anduril is committed to maintaining the integrity of our Talent acquisition process and the security of our candidates. We've observed a rise in sophisticated phishing and fraudulent schemes where individuals impersonate Anduril representatives, luring job seekers with false interviews or job offers. These scammers often attempt to extract payment or sensitive personal information.
To ensure your safety and help you navigate your job search with confidence, please keep the following critical points in mind:
  • No Financial Requests: Anduril will never solicit payment or demand personal financial details (such as banking information, credit card numbers, or social security numbers) at any stage of our hiring process. Our legitimate recruitment is entirely free for candidates.
  • Please always verify communications:
    • Direct from Anduril: If you receive an email from one of our recruiters, it will only come from an @anduril.com address.
    • Via Agency Partner: If contacted by a recruiting agency for an Anduril role, their email will clearly identify their agency. If you suspect any suspicious activity, please verify the agency's authenticity by reaching out to contact@anduril.com.
  • Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Outreach: If you receive any communication that appears suspicious, contains grammatical errors, or makes unusual requests, do not engage. Always confirm the sender's email domain is @anduril.com before providing any personal information or clicking on links.
  • What to Do If You Suspect Fraud: Should you encounter any questionable or fraudulent outreach claiming to be from Anduril, please report it immediately to contact@anduril.com. Your proactive caution is invaluable in protecting your personal information and upholding the security and trustworthiness of our recruitment efforts.

Data Privacy
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.
By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening and assessing potential risks as part of your application process. This third-party service provider provides risk-intelligence services that may include analysis of sanctions and watchlists, adverse media, public-record information, and other lawful open-source or commercial data sources. This third-party service provider does not act as a consumer reporting agency. Use of this provider helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and protect technology, intellectual property, and organizational security.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.


What Anduril employees say

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About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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