Senior Test Pilot
MightyFly is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Test Pilot to lead and execute its flight test program. The Senior Test Pilot will be responsible for preparing experimental UAV aircraft for flight, serving as Pilot in Command during flight tests, and planning missions in support of the flight test team. This role involves comprehensive flight logging and detailed debriefings for the team, along with ensuring crew safety through thorough briefings. Additional duties include collaboration on concept of operations development, coordination with airport authorities, evaluation of pilot readiness, and participation in the initial pilot program launch. There may be opportunities to collaborate with the engineering and build teams, providing input on design features and potentially assisting in airframe and subsystem construction.
The position primarily involves hands-on field work at a testing site near Tracy, California, with occasional travel for demonstration tests across the United States. This role necessitates early morning starts and provides substantial opportunities for professional satisfaction.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct test flights from a ground station, serving as pilot in command for both Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) operations.
- Execute flight test activities, including mission planning, pre-flight briefings, and safety reviews.
- Perform pre and post-flight inspections of UAVs.
- Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of the test site facility.
- Provide software team feedback by testing UI interfaces and conducting simulations of real-world conditions and simulated failures, utilizing simulators to enhance personal piloting capabilities.
- Collaborate with the team to develop concepts of operation and training manuals.
- Participate in multidisciplinary team ground testing, analysis, and execution.
- Contribute to the construction of MightyFly aircraft.
- Assist in the launch of the pilot program.
Qualifications:
Technical:
- Current Commercial Pilot License (PPL).
- Demonstrated experience flying large UAVs or VTOL aircraft (over 55 pounds).
- Proficiency with computers and advanced hardware and software.
- Comfort and capability with trailers, towing, and basic automotive maintenance.
General:
- A strong drive to build systems from the initial stages.
- A keen interest in addressing and solving complex challenges.
- Self-directed with the ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Exceptional attention to detail.
Planning & Partnering:
- Proven ability to plan and meet deadlines.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Team leadership qualities with the capacity for cross-functional collaboration.
Preferred:
- Familiarity with aviation certification standards and processes.
- Prior military experience as a pilot of large-scale UAVs.
- Flight instructional experience.
- Experience with both electric and combustion engine aircraft.
- Possession of a Part 107 certificate.
- 1+ year of experience flying radio-controlled (RC) model aircraft.
Additional Information:
MightyFly is currently able to sponsor TN visas and H1B visa transfers for this position.
MightyFly is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. The company values team work, hard work and fun, encouraging creativity and humility, and supporting equity, inclusivity, transparency and respect. The job location will be primarily in the Tracy & Bay Area, CA.
Benefits:
- Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Unlimited paid time off.
- Stock option plan.
- Complementary in-office meals and snacks.
- 401k Plan.
- Commuter benefits.