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Uas Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UAS Test Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

The UAS Test Pilot will be an individual contributor responsible for ensuring the reliability and performance of our drone systems, and providing critical insights and improvements for our technology.

UAS Test Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

The UAS Test Pilot will be an individual contributor responsible for ensuring the reliability and performance of our drone systems, and providing critical insights and improvements for our technology.

UAS Test Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

The UAS Test Pilot will be an individual contributor responsible for ensuring the reliability and performance of our drone systems, and providing critical insights and improvements for our technology.

UAS Test Pilot

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Plan, execute, and document flight test missions for prototype and production UAS platforms ... Serve as pilot-in-command (PIC) and make real-time go/no-go decisions based on safety and readiness

About the Role Firestorm Labs is seeking a driven and experienced UAS Test Pilot, Emergency Pilot (EP) to join our Flight Test Team. In this high-impact individual contributor role, you'll support ...

About the Role Firestorm Labs is seeking a driven and experienced UAS Flight Test Pilot to join our Flight Test Team. In this high-impact individual contributor role, you'll support flight operations ...

Serve as UAS safety pilot when required. Requirements * Demonstrated experience executing UAS test programs. * FAA Part 107 certification (or ability to obtain). * Knowledge of aerodynamics, UAS ...

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Drawing on experience crewed and UAS the role will fulfill pilot command duties during ... Create test plans, cards, and reports * Conduct data analysis * Collaborate with other crewmembers ...

Drawing on experience crewed and UAS the role will fulfill pilot command duties during ... Create test plans, cards, and reports * Conduct data analysis * Collaborate with other crewmembers ...

Drawing on experience crewed and UAS the role will fulfill pilot command duties during ... Create test plans, cards, and reports * Conduct data analysis * Collaborate with other crewmembers ...

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Uas Test Pilot information

See salary details

$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do uas test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for uas test pilot in the United States is $105,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $107,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a UAS Test Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a UAS Test Pilot, you need a strong background in aviation, aeronautical engineering, and flight operations, typically supported by a pilot’s license (such as FAA Part 107 or Part 61) and relevant technical degrees. Proficiency with unmanned aerial systems (UAS) platforms, telemetry systems, and specialized flight control software is essential, and additional certifications like UAS-specific training are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make a candidate stand out in this highly technical and safety-critical role. These skills ensure safe test operations, accurate data collection, and effective collaboration with engineering teams to advance UAS development.

What are some common challenges faced by UAS Test Pilots during flight testing, and how can they be addressed?

UAS Test Pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, unexpected system malfunctions, and evolving airspace regulations. To address these, test pilots must maintain strong situational awareness, follow rigorous pre-flight checklists, and stay updated on regulatory guidance. Collaboration with engineers and safety teams is crucial to troubleshoot issues quickly and ensure flights meet test objectives safely. Continuous training and thorough debriefs after each test flight also help in mitigating risks and improving future operations.

What are UAS Test Pilots?

UAS Test Pilots are specialized professionals who operate and evaluate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), also known as drones, during test flights. Their main role is to assess the performance, safety, and reliability of new or modified UAS platforms under various conditions. They work closely with engineers and technicians to identify issues and ensure the aircraft meets regulatory and operational standards. UAS Test Pilots often document test results, provide feedback for design improvements, and may help develop flight procedures and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Uas Test Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectUas Test PilotDrone Operator
CredentialsFAA Part 107 certification, pilot training, engineering knowledgeFAA Part 107 certification, basic drone operation training
Work EnvironmentTest ranges, research facilities, aerospace labsConstruction sites, filming locations, event venues
Employer & IndustryDefense, aerospace, government agenciesMedia, agriculture, real estate, entertainment

Uas Test Pilots focus on testing and evaluating unmanned aircraft systems in controlled environments, requiring advanced certifications and technical expertise. Drone Operators typically handle routine flying tasks for various commercial purposes, with less emphasis on testing and engineering. Both roles involve remote piloting but differ significantly in scope, responsibilities, and industry applications.

What cities are hiring for Uas Test Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Uas Test Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various Uas Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
UAS Test Pilot

UAS Test Pilot

Flock Safety

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Who is Flock?
Every community deserves to be safe, it's a fundamental right. Our mission is simple - to build technology that reduces crime and protects privacy. Flock partners with cities, businesses, schools, and neighborhoods to help protect where people live, work, and play. Last year, Flock technology supported over 1 million criminal investigations, helped solve approximately 20% of reported crimes in areas where it is deployed, and played a role in locating more than 10,000 missing people.
We are a high-performance team united by urgency, ownership, and a shared commitment to meaningful impact. The work is fast-paced and the expectations are high. We push beyond perceived limits, support each other, and hold ourselves accountable to delivering results that matter.
With over $1B in funding and an $8.3B valuation, we are scaling with intention and investing in the people who will help us build what others said could not be done. At Flock, you will find the opportunity to grow quickly, take on real responsibility, and contribute to something bigger than yourself.
The Opportunity
Flock is seeking an experienced and passionate UAS Test Pilot to join our team dedicated to advancing Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in testing hardware, piloting drones, and supporting logistics, to enhance our DFR capabilities. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge technology that saves lives and improves public safety.
This position is an on-site position in our facilities located in Atlanta, GA and will require up to 25% domestic travel. The UAS Test Pilot will be an individual contributor responsible for ensuring the reliability and performance of our drone systems, and providing critical insights and improvements for our technology.
The Skillset
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate: Required to operate drones for commercial purposes.
  • Knowledgeable in FAA Regulations and Safety Protocols: Understanding of the legal and safety requirements for drone operations.
  • Experience in Drone Operations: Preferably in experimental UAS development, and proficient in piloting various drone models with a strong understanding of UAV technology.
  • Experience with Drone Hardware and Software Testing: Proficient in diagnostics, troubleshooting, and evaluation of drone systems.
  • Strong Problem-Solving Skills and Attention to Detail: Ability to identify issues and implement effective solutions.
  • Effective Communicator: Ability to convey technical information clearly to various stakeholders.
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to stand and be on your feet for extended periods during testing, field operations, and maintenance tasks. Capable of lifting and transporting equipment and hardware weighing up to 55 lbs.
  • Travel and Outdoor Work: Ability to travel as required for testing, training, and operational missions (estimated 25% travel). Ability to work outdoors over 70% of the time.
  • Independent and Collaborative Work: Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a startup team environment.
  • Customer-Focused Mindset: Ability to support internal and external stakeholders effectively.

Feeling uneasy that you haven't ticked every box? That's okay; we've felt that way too. Studies have shown women and minorities are less likely to apply unless they meet all qualifications. We encourage you to break the status quo and apply to roles that would make you excited to come to work every day.
90 Days at Flock
We prescribe to 90-day plans and believe that good days, lead to good weeks, which lead to good months. This serves as a preview of the 90 day plan you will receive if you were to be hired in this role at Flock Safety.
The First 30 Days
  • Meet the team you will be working with and learn about the safety procedures and flight testing environment for your location
  • Review current standard testing procedures and documentation
  • Learn about current equipment, aircraft, and systems
  • Demonstrate UAS piloting capabilities and become a confident Pilot in Command with Flock aircraft

The First 60 Days
  • Begin effectively communicating test results to team members and other stakeholders
  • Display appropriate problem solving and risk management skills
  • Reflect on any needs for professional development to improve your performance as a test pilot and outline how to make those improvements

90 Days & Beyond
  • Contribute more broadly to testing write ups, and be confident in your ability to generate reports based on longer term accrued testing data
  • Contribute continuously to the testing and evaluation of aircraft while following standard procedures
Salary & Equity
In this role, you'll receive a starting salary between $65,000-90,000 as well as Flock Stock Options. Base salary is determined by job-related experience, education/training, as well as market indicators. Your recruiter will discuss this in-depth with you during our first chat.
Location
This role's work responsibilities are based in Atlanta. Candidates must reside in commuting distance to or relocate to Atlanta for this position.
The Perks
Flexible PTO: We seriously mean it, plus 11 company holidays.
Fully-paid health benefits plan for employees: including Medical, Dental, and Vision and an HSA match.
Family Leave: All employees receive 12 weeks of 100% paid parental leave. Birthing parents are eligible for an additional 6-8 weeks of physical recovery time.
Fertility & Family Benefits: We have partnered with Maven, a complete digital health benefit for starting and raising a family. Flock will provide a $50,000-lifetime maximum benefit related to eligible adoption, surrogacy, or fertility expenses.
Spring Health: Spring Health offers a variety of mental health benefits, including therapy, coaching, medication management, and digital tools, all tailored to each individual's needs.
Caregiver Support: We have partnered with Cariloop to provide our employees with caregiver support
Carta Tax Advisor: Employees receive 1:1 sessions with Equity Tax Advisors who can address individual grants, model tax scenarios, and answer general questions.
ERGs: We want all employees to thrive and feel like they belong at Flock. We offer three ERGs today - Women of Flock, Flock Proud, and Melanin Motion. If you are interested in talking to a representative from one of these, please let your recruiter know.
WFH Stipend: $150 per month to cover the costs of working from home.
Productivity Stipend: $300 per year to use on Audible, Calm, Masterclass, Duolingo, Grammarly and so much more.
Home Office Stipend: A one-time $750 to help you create your dream office.
Flock is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diverse backgrounds and thoughts and welcome everyone to apply for employment with us. We are committed to fostering an environment that is inclusive, transparent, and collaborative. Mutual respect is central to how Flock operates, and we believe the best solutions come from diverse perspectives, experiences, and skills. We embrace our differences and know that we are stronger working together.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please email us at recruiting@flocksafety.com. This information will be treated as confidential and used only to determine an appropriate accommodation for the interview process.
At Flock, we compensate our employees fairly for their work. Base salary is determined by job-related experience, education/training, as well as market indicators. The range above is representative of base salary only and does not include equity, sales bonus plans (when applicable) and benefits. This range may be modified in the future. This job posting may span more than one career level.
Flock is aware of fraudulent individuals and agencies falsely claiming to represent our company. All legitimate communication from Flock will come from an email address ending in @flocksafety.com. We do not make job offers through messaging apps, social platforms, or unauthorized third parties, and we will never request payment or sensitive personal information during the hiring process. If you encounter suspicious outreach related to a Flock role, please report it to recruiting@flocksafety.com