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Uas Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Colsa

COLSA is seeking a UAS Integration Engineer & Test Pilot to manage the end-to-end integration of Group I, II, and III Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This includes the design, testing, programming ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

... planning for our UAS mission profiles. * report test results to a standard required by ... FAA Commercial Pilot or ATP certificate (Fixed or Rotary Wing) Minimum FAA Second Class Medical ...

Wisk

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification ... In addition, you will develop, review and approve trajectory planning for our UAS mission profiles.

Wisk Aero

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification ... In addition, you will develop, review and approve trajectory planning for our UAS mission profiles.

Ideal Aerosmith

UAS Pilot

Rockville, MD · On-site

Manually operate fixed-wing UAS during launch, recovery, flight test, and abnormal or emergency ... Provide pilot and operational feedback to engineering during aircraft development, integration, and ...

Grandforksiscooler

Manually operate fixed-wing UAS during launch, recovery, flight test, and abnormal or emergency ... Provide pilot and operational feedback to engineering during aircraft development, integration, and ...

Textron

External Pilot

Hunt Valley, MD · On-site

Operate electronic and mechanical test equipment. Qualifications * Two years prior Aerosonde/UAS ... pilot. * FAA licenses or certificates such as Part 107 is desirable. * Experience with and ...

Textron

External Pilot

Hunt Valley, MD · On-site

Operate electronic and mechanical test equipment. Qualifications * Two years prior Aerosonde/UAS ... pilot. * FAA licenses or certificates such as Part 107 is desirable. * Experience with and ...

Wisk Aero LLC

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

Develop, review, and approve trajectory planning for our UAS mission profiles. * Report test ... FAA Commercial Pilot or ATP certificate (Fixed or Rotary Wing). * Minimum FAA Second Class Medical ...

SpektreWorks, Inc.

Be Seen First

UAS Operator / Pilot

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$75K - $135K/yr

SpektreWorks is seeking experienced UAS Pilots to support the testing, demonstration, training, and ... Flight Test & Engineering Support * Support developmental flight testing and aircraft performance ...

Teal Drones

Production Flight Test I

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Production Flight Test I# Production Flight Test ISLC, UT 84115## Description## **Position Summary ... Minimum of two years of experience as a UAS professional pilot, Military experience, or holder of a ...

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Uas Test Pilot information

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How much do uas test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 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 is a UAS test pilot?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a UAS test pilot?

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 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:

What states have the most Uas Test Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Uas Test Pilot jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Uas Test Pilot jobs?

For Uas Test Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Uas Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

UAS Integration Engineer & Test Pilot

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Colsa
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Colsaexternal

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description


COLSA is seeking a UAS Integration Engineer & Test Pilot to manage the end-to-end integration of Group I, II, and III Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This includes the design, testing, programming, troubleshooting, repair, and operational flight of both multi-rotor and fixed-wing platforms. The ideal candidate is an experienced First Person View (FPV) pilot with a strong foundation in embedded systems, UAS hardware, and autonomous flight control technologies, combining hands-on engineering expertise with advanced flight operations in support of product development, testing, customer demonstrations, and operational missions.
  • Design, assemble, integrate, test, troubleshoot, repair, and optimize Group I and II multi-rotor and fixed-wing UAS, including mechanical, electrical, and payload systems.
  • Configure, program, calibrate, and troubleshoot sUAS subsystems, including but not limited to flight controllers, companion computers, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), brushless DC (BLDC) motors, Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, FPV systems, radios, sensors, and payload hardware.
  • Plan and execute manual (Acro), FPV, and autonomous flight operations in diverse field conditions.
  • Ensure all flight operations are conducted with exceptional situational awareness and in strict compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and aviation safety practices.
  • Conduct pre-flight planning, risk assessments, system inspections, calibration of airborne and ground control equipment, and post-flight maintenance.
  • Collect, analyze, and document flight test data; prepare technical reports and recommend design or process improvements.
  • Participate in rapid prototyping, integration, validation, and testing of new UAS platforms and subsystems.
  • Assemble mechanical and electrical components using standard fabrication tools, additive manufacturing systems, and other shop equipment.
  • Document build procedures, integration processes, and testing methodologies to support repeatable manufacturing and engineering practices.
  • Collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to achieve technical objectives and program milestones.
  • Provide technical support during field testing, customer demonstrations, operational missions, and training events at CONUS and OCONUS military installations.
  • Support the development of operational procedures, training materials, and demonstrations as required.

At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our "Family of Professionals!" Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefits here:
https://www.colsa.com/culture_benefits
Required Experience
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent experience.
  • Minimum of 5-8 years of relevant UAS engineering, integration, or flight operations experience.
  • Minimum of 1-2 years of demonstrated FPV flight experience with advanced manual (Acro) flight proficiency; a flight portfolio or demonstration reel showcasing precision manual maneuvering is highly desirable.
  • Active FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Proficiency with embedded systems, low-level debugging, and communication interfaces, including Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), Inter-Integrated Circuit (I²C), Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter (UART), and Controller Area Network (CAN).
  • Strong working knowledge of electrical systems, batteries, electronics, and the safe use of electrical measurement equipment.
  • Experience integrating, programming, tuning, and troubleshooting PX4 and ArduPilot flight control systems on both multi-rotor and fixed-wing aircraft.
  • Proficiency with mission planning and configuration software, including QGroundControl, Mission Planner, and Betaflight Configurator.
  • Thorough understanding of sUAS hardware, including flight controllers, companion computers, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), motors, propellers, FPV systems, radios, GPS receivers, payloads, and related subsystems.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, wiring diagrams, schematics, and engineering documentation.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and technical documentation skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in fast-paced, mission-driven environments where priorities may change rapidly.
  • Ability to obtain an interim Secret security clearance within six months of hire. U.S. citizenship is required.
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to 25% in support of testing, demonstrations, customer meetings, and operational missions, both CONUS and OCONUS.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field.
  • Active Secret security clearance.
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD) programs or military customers.
  • Experience with sUAS design, prototyping, manufacturing, and assembly.
  • Familiarity with mechanical systems, manufacturing processes, and parts compliance requirements.
  • Proficiency with a mechanical design CAD tool, preferably SolidWorks.
  • Experience designing for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and Stereolithography (SLA) additive manufacturing processes, as well as traditional Computer Numerical Control (CNC) manufacturing processes.
  • Experience assisting with technical training, demonstrations, or curriculum development.

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. COLSA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

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