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Uas Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Chief UAS Pilot Sterling, VA Salary From: $150,000 per year MUST: Experienced Chief UAS Pilot 5+ ... Develop and manage the process for flight plan review 48 hours prior to flight and concise test ...

Chief UAS Pilot Company: Heven AeroTech Location: Sterling, Virginia FLSA: Exempt Reports To: U.S ... Develop and manage the process for flight plan review 48 hours prior to flight and concise test ...

Chief UAS Pilot Company: Heven AeroTech Location: Sterling, Virginia FLSA: Exempt Reports To: U.S ... Develop and manage the process for flight plan review 48 hours prior to flight and concise test ...

Chief UAS Pilot Company: Heven AeroTech Location: Sterling, Virginia FLSA: Exempt Reports To: U.S ... Develop and manage the process for flight plan review 48 hours prior to flight and concise test ...

We are seeking an RC & Large Model Aircraft Pilot - UAS External Pilot (Manual LOS Flight) to conduct manual, line-of-sight (LOS) flight operations for Group 1 & 2 unmanned aircraft systems in a test ...

$95.40K - $143.60K/yr

We are seeking an RC & Large Model Aircraft Pilot - UAS External Pilot (Manual LOS Flight) to conduct manual, line-of-sight (LOS) flight operations for Group 1 & 2 unmanned aircraft systems in a test ...

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Uas Test Pilot information

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$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do uas test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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.

MQ-9 Test Pilot - TPS Graduate

SDI System Dynamics

Palmdale, CA

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

SDI is seeking a MQ-9 LRE & MCE Qualified Instructor Pilot (IP) and graduate of the US Air Force Test Pilot School program to provide UAS Aircrew Support Services. These positions will be in Gray Butte, CA. Pilots will be responsible for coordination of customer flight test support requirements and aircraft operation to ensure flight safety and success.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Test Planning and Execution

  • Review test plans, test cards, and other documentation for ground and flight test events and supporting Flight Test Engineer in execution of test projects
  • Apply extensive knowledge and experience of flight test operations to provide test planning, training and evaluation, pre-flight planning, flight briefings, post-flight briefings, and post-flight test analysis and reports.
  • Attend and participate in Test Plan Working Groups (TPWGs), Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMs), Test Kickoff Meetings, Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), Safety Review Boards (SRBs), and Technical Review Boards (TRBs).
  • Conduct test and evaluate capabilities of new equipment and propriety of new procedures in accordance with established test cards, published flight manuals, checklists, technical orders, instructions and other approved manuals as provided by the manufacturer.
  • Conduct approval flight tests of new or substantially modified aircraft, including the assessment of handling characteristics, performance, and systems functionality.
  • Support program and PMs with test advice as it pertains to aircrew, recommended priorities, resource planning and constraints, and inputs into deficiency identification and correction

Pre-flight Planning:

* Coordinate customer flight support requirements and develop valid mission plans to include map analysis for mission route selection including terrain evaluation; communications planning; compliance with customer, FAA, ICAO, and host nation regulations; developing and filing flight plans; weather evaluation; fuel requirements, mission risk assessment; crew assignments; pre-flight briefing and safety of flight evaluation* Perform pre-flight and in-flight mission planning activities in accordance with unified combatant command and theater rules of engagement. Must understand tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for friendly and enemy Air Order Battle (AOB) assets.

In-Flight/Post-Flight:

  • Conduct all phases of safe ground and flight operations, including pre-flight, ground checks, launch, normal flight, emergency flight, recovery, and post-flight.
  • Participate in post-flight debriefing to determine mission accomplishments and potential procedural development.
  • Submit T.O. change requests and Deficiency Reports (DR) identified during ground and flight test operations.
  • Receive, interpret, extract, and disseminate relevant ATO, Airspace Control Order (ACO) and SPINs information.

Certification and Currency:

  • Obtain and maintain professional certifications required to pilot/operate aircraft to include appropriate difference training and qualification on new aircraft
  • Accurately track and accomplish currency requirements, annual evaluations/training events, go/no-go Flight Crew Information File items, and safety briefings.
  • Ensures compliance with service guidance, company policy and procedures and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Maintain ties with commercial aviation organizations to contribute to job performance
  • Pursue continuing education for growth in advance flight ratings and technology trends

Training:

* Conduct initial, qualification, upgrade and continuation training for mission crew members.* Perform staff assistance visits to subordinate units, training, planning, standardization and evaluation, and other staff duty functions.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Must have active TS/SCI security clearance

Education Requirements: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Mathematics, or Physics; or Master's Degree in any engineering field; or BS Degree in a physical science - receiving a minimum GPA of 3.0

Current and qualified MQ-9 Instructor Pilot requirements as follows:

  • Pilot I: MCE
  • Pilot II: MCE + LRE
  • Pilot III: MCE + LRE + INST/MAQ
  • Pilot IV: MCE + LRE + INST + SEFE/MAQ
  • Pilot IV: MCE + LRE + INST + SEFE + MAQ

Required to have commercial pilot certificate, current instrument rating, and current FAA medical certificate.

Must possess/obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate

Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office products

OTHER INFORMATION

Travel may be required to other sites to support the contract effort.

System Dynamics International, Inc. is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access SDI's careers page as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by calling 256-895-9000. Thanks for your interest in System Dynamics International, Inc.