Drone Builder Test Pilot

Job Description

Job Description

The Drone Builder Test Pilot is responsible for assembling, configuring, testing, and validating drone systems to ensure each unit meets quality, safety, and performance standards prior to shipment. This role requires strong technical knowledge of drone components, electronics, flight-control software, and troubleshooting methods, along with the ability to document results and collaborate with Production, Engineering, and R&D teams to support reliable builds, repairs, and continuous process improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Drone Assembly and Preparation: Receive, count, organize, and prepare incoming parts for production. Assemble analog and digital video systems, multirotors, and FPV drones using frames, motors, ESCs, flight controllers, radio systems, and power distribution components. Perform precision wiring and hand soldering of electronic components.

Software, Configuration, and Calibration: Install, configure, and update flight control software and firmware, including Betaflight, ArduPilot, and PX4. Calibrate sensors, gimbals, flight controllers, and radio transmitters/receivers, using product specifications and memory card files to ensure accurate builds and preventive maintenance.

Testing and Flight Validation: Conduct bench testing, pre-flight inspections, and production flight tests on newly assembled, repaired, or updated drones. Evaluate takeoff, hovering, maneuverability, stability, responsiveness, landing, and overall system performance, including motors, batteries, GPS, telemetry, video transmission, and onboard electronics.

Troubleshooting, Repairs, and Quality Control: Identify, troubleshoot, and repair electrical, mechanical, and software-related issues. Perform post-flight inspections and repeat testing following repairs, rework, software updates, or component replacements. Document test results, failures, repairs, and final outcomes and verify drones meet established quality standards before shipment.

Collaboration, Documentation, and Continuous Improvement: Maintain accurate build records, quality-control documentation, and part inventories. Collaborate with Production, Engineering, and R&D teams on custom builds, prototypes, recurring quality issues, root-cause analysis, and process improvements.

Safety and Compliance: Follow established safety protocols, company procedures, applicable requirements, and designated flight-area restrictions when assembling, testing, and handling drones, electronics, batteries, chemicals, and finished products. Maintain test equipment and flight systems in safe and operational condition.

Qualifications

· Proven experience in drone building, robotics, or electronics assembly and flying.

· Proficiency in soldering and handling small electronic components.

· Strong understanding of flight controllers, ESCs, RC systems, GPS modules, telemetry systems, electrical diagrams, modeling software, and configuration software.

· Familiarity with LiPo batteries, charging, and power management safety.

· Experience using flight configuration software (Betaflight, INAV, ArduPilot, PX4).

· Ability to read wiring diagrams, technical drawings, and assembly instructions.

· Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Skills

· Experience with 3D printing.

· Knowledge of RF systems and antenna optimization.

· Familiarity with FPV (First Person View) drone systems.

· Background in mechanical or electrical engineering, robotics, or related technical fields.

· Ability to disassemble, inspect, repair, and reassemble drone components.

· Controlled-flight experience with various quadcopters.

· Ability to identify flight-test issues, document observations, and report findings to the build team.

· Active AMA membership and good standing with a local airfield preferred.

Physical Requirements

· Ability to sit, stand, and move between workstations for extended periods of time.

· Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for assembling small components and wiring.

· Ability to use hand tools, soldering equipment, and precision instruments safely and effectively.

· Visual acuity to read small parts, wiring diagrams, and technical specifications.

· Ability to lift, carry, and move materials, tools, or equipment weighing up to 25–30 lbs.

· Comfort working in a workshop or manufacturing environment may involve moderate noise and use of safety equipment (e.g., safety glasses, gloves).

· Ability to perform repetitive tasks requiring focus and attention to detail.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel as classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Our client is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and sexual orientation, and ancestry, marital or veteran status. Diversity is valued and we will not tolerate discrimination or harassment in any form. Candidates for the position stated above are hired on an "at will" basis. Nothing herein is intended to create a contract.