UAS Test Pilot, EP

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 flight operations across the full lifecycle of our UAVs, with a focus on aircraft readiness, safe execution, and operational reliability.

• Pilot fixed-wing UAVs in support of flight testing, training, and operational activities
• Perform Safety Pilot duties during test and evaluation of new and existing UAS platforms
• Ensure aircraft are flight-ready through pre-flight validation, configuration checks, and functional verification
• Conduct Functional Check Flights (FCF) as needed to validate aircraft readiness
• Partner with Flight Test Engineers and Test teams to support flight test planning and execution
• Maintain continuous readiness and accountability of assigned UAS fleet and support equipment
• Support end-to-end logistics for demos, deployments, and field exercises, including transport and setup
• Track aircraft status, maintenance needs, and configuration control across platforms
• Perform basic troubleshooting, maintenance, and coordination of repairs to ensure operational availability
• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, airspace requirements, and internal flight safety standards
• Cook up with test ranges and internal stakeholders to support safe and efficient operations
• Collect and document flight data, observations, and discrepancies; provide actionable feedback to Engineering and R&DM
• Maintain accurate records of flight operations, maintenance, and training activities
• Support training of pilots and operators on procedures, safety protocols, and system operation
• Respond to operational needs in dynamic environments, ensuring mission success and fleet availability
• Continuously identify opportunities to improve safety, readiness, and operational execution

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field; may substitute equivalent hands-on experience in lieu of a degree
• Minimum 5 years of experience piloting fixed-wing Group 1-3 UAS, including autonomous, and/or remotely piloted systems
• FDA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
• Experience serving as RPIC and/or Safety Pilot in flight operations
• Familiarity with flight documentation including checklists, test cards, and post-flight reports
• Hands-on experience building, modifying, or maintaining UAS or RC aircraft systems
• Strong understanding of flight operations, safety procedures, and airspace coordination
• Experience working cross-functionally with engineering and operations teams
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly
• Strong technical writing skills for documentation, SOPs, and manufacturing procedures
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Preferred Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience piloting fixed-wing Group 1-3 UAS, including autonomous, and/or remotely piloted systems
• Experience supporting or participating in defense or military flight test environments
• Familiarity with UAS simulation tools and environments used in autonomous systems development
• Working knowledge of FAA Part 91 and relevant military airspace regulations