Flight Test & Integration Specialist

Summary

The Test and Evaluation team at Anduril is integral to our mission, ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Our team specializes in a broad spectrum of testing activities, including developmental testing using surrogate vehicles, and is at the forefront of testing approaches—particularly in the domain of mission autonomy systems.

We are expanding our team to include a Flight Operations & Integration Specialist who will assist the deployment and operation of advanced autonomous systems in real-world scenarios. This hands-on role combines expertise in flight operations, system integration, testing, and troubleshooting, with a strong emphasis on technical proficiency and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Flight Operations & Testing:
• Plan, prepare, and execute UAS missions, including VLOS and BVLOS operations, in diverse and dynamic environments.
• Act as Safety Pilot for flight operations, conducting manual flight of fixed-wing, rotorcraft, and VTOL UAS platforms as needed.
• Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections to ensure operational readiness and safety.
• Troubleshoot UAS systems in real-time during field operations and implement effective solutions.
• Systems Integration & Prototyping:
• Integrate hardware and software systems into UAS platforms, including sensors, actuators, flight controllers, and networking systems.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to prototype and test new systems and subsystems.
• Assist in configuring and optimizing UAS communication networks, ensuring seamless data transmission between ground control stations and UAS.
• Utilize Linux command line tools for system configuration, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
• Collaboration & Documentation:
• Provide feedback on UAS performance to engineering and project teams, helping identify areas for improvement.
• Maintain detailed flight logs, technical records, risk assessments, and operational safety documentation.
• Contribute to the development of safe operating procedures and promote a culture of safety across flight operations.

Required Qualifications

• Hold a valid Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• Significant experience of manual UAS or RC aircraft operations on FW, rotorcraft, and FW VTOL airframes.
• Demonstrable and significant experience in planning and executing UAS operations.
• Thorough understanding and practical application of FAA Part 107 operations, including the development of Operational Safety Cases and the process for obtaining operational authorizations.
• Comprehensive understanding of the National Airspace System and UAS operating regulations.
• Expert-level technical proficiency with Pixhawk or Cube Orange flight controllers, including mission planning software (e.g., Mission Planner, QGroundControl).
• Proficiency in Linux command line tools for system configuration, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
• Strong understanding of advanced networking concepts, including IP configurations, routing, and data transmission protocols.
• Strong technical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and solve problems in field operations.
• Willingness to travel extensively (>50%) and work flexible hours to support field testing and operations.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in aviation, electronics, robotics, or related technical fields.
• Experience with BVLOS operations and multi-aircraft missions.
• Familiarity with rapid prototyping tools such as 3D printing or working with composite materials.
• Knowledge of advanced UAS payloads, such as LiDAR or EO/IR sensors.
• FAA part 61 license.