Flight Test Engineer - Core & Hardware Validation

About the role:

Skydio is seeking an enthusiastic Flight Test Engineer -  Core & HW Validation to help validate the next generation of Skydio products. Skydio builds innovative flying platforms and software to control them. This role will be focused on working with all products that Skydio has to offer. As an FTE Flight Core & HW Validation, you will be responsible for working cross functionally with various teams and will be jumping in to support various projects, sometimes simultaneously. This is an onsite role located in San Mateo.

How you'll make an impact:

• Create and run smoke and regression tests to validate system confidence
• Run and optimize existing test plans to keep inline with the latest features
• Track performance metrics across hardware builds
• Capture and surface product limitation early in the development cycle to improve performance and market fit.
• Validate SW changes to ensure a stable flying platform
• Assist in collection of flight data for competitive benchmarking
• Generate substantial amounts of logged flight data and media that will be used to characterize and improve system performance and reliability
• Design and execute test plans and procedures focused on evaluating core system functionality, including:
• Work closely with systems, software, and hardware teams to define test requirements and success criteria
• Ensure aircraft and ground systems are configured for safe and efficient testing
• Collect and analyze test data using flight logs, telemetry, and onboard sensor data
• Identify, document, and track anomalies or deviations in performance
• Contribute to test readiness reviews, safety assessments, and post-test debriefs
• Support FAA/regulatory compliance and airworthiness documentation as needed

What makes you a good fit:

• Software QA/testing background
• Part 107 Certification
• Solid debugging of hardware and software systems
• Enjoy working on multiple projects at the same time
• Practical experience with UAS
• Understanding of UAS subsystems and their real world performance
• Basic mechanical and electrical system integration knowledge
• Experience operating Linux based systems
• Demonstrated passion for things that fly (bonus points for sUAS Pilot's license)
• Thorough communication and documentation skills
• Ability to work in field environments and travel to test sites as required

Compensation: At Skydio, our compensation packages for regular, full-time employees include competitive base salaries, equity in the form of stock options, and comprehensive benefits packages. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. Relocation assistance may also be provided for eligible roles. The annual base salary range for this position is $110,000-$156,000. Fundamentally, we believe that equity is the key to long-term financial growth, and we ensure all regular, full-time employees have the opportunity to significantly benefit from the company's success. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to enroll in the Company’s group health insurance plans. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to receive the following benefits: Paid vacation time, sick leave, holiday pay and 401K savings plan. This position and all associated benefits are subject to applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the Company’s policies and eligibility criteria.

*Compensation for certain positions may vary based on the position’s location.

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