Position Summary
Teal Drones, a wholly owned subsidiary of Red Cat Holdings, is looking to fill a position for a full-time Production Flight Test Level 1. Teal is a rapidly growing technology company focused on creating world class system solutions serving a broad range of applications for design and development of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS drones) for use in defense, public safety, and other government security organizations.
The sUAS Production Flight Test plays a key role in the testing, evaluation, and demonstration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of sUAS platforms, regulatory standards, and safety protocols. In this role, you will collaborate closely with the manufacturing team, engineers, developers, and other pilots to ensure that UAS systems are designed, tested, and deployed to meet customer requirements. We are looking for a motivated individual eager to develop their career, who can work independently as well as effectively within a team. This is considered an entry-level position within the Teal Flight Operations team.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct pre-flight inspections and maintenance checks of UAS equipment to ensure they are in good working condition.
- Conduct flight testing of UAS systems to evaluate performance, reliability, and safety, ensuring adherence to Quality Assurance defined steps for all flights.
- Operate and maintain different types of sUAS.
- Record and analyze data from UAS flights, including flight logs, sensor data, photos, and video recordings.
- Communicate effectively with engineers, developers, and other stakeholders to identify areas for improvement in UAS systems.
- Ensure that all UAS operations comply with FAA regulations and other relevant safety standards.
- Perform risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies to ensure safe UAS operations.
- Provide feedback and recommendations to management regarding the development of new UAS systems.
- Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- 1-2 years drone industry experience
- 25 documented hours as PIC
- Part 107- FAA Remote Pilot Certificate
- Experience with sUAS platforms, including multi-rotor aircraft or an external pilot from a fixed-wing UAS
- Strong technical knowledge of UAS systems and associated equipment
- Must be able to maintain visual line of sight of UAS up to 1 kilometer away
- Must be willing to work any shift, and overtime as needed. (Normal hours are 8:30am – 5PM MT, but may change temporarily based on operational necessity)
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to travel as required (less than 10%)
Additional Desired Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in a related field, such as aerospace engineering, aviation technology, or UAS technology.
- Minimum of two years of experience as a UAS professional pilot, Military experience, or holder of a Part 61 Airman’s Certificate.
- Previous employment as a test pilot
- Military or Civilian equivalent Test Pilot School (TPS) Graduate.
- Experience with PX4, Ardupilot, Mavlink, and QGroundControl.
- Experience with Atlassian-based products such as Jira and Confluence.
- Familiarity with the FAA Drone Zone, LAANC, Drone NOTAMs, and Waivers.
- Experience with fixed wing drones and FPV (First Person View) drones, including hobby or racing experience, is highly desirable.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand for long periods of time.
- Ability to work in outdoor environments, all four seasons, and in varying weather conditions.
- Capability to remain calm and focused under pressure during critical phases of flight testing and unforeseen challenges.
- Vigilance and adherence to safety protocols to ensure the well-being of personnel and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Stamina to withstand long periods of standing, walking, and potentially climbing stairs or ladders to access observation areas.
- Proficient hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to handle equipment and documents related to flight operations.
- Visual acuity to observe flight operations, monitor aircraft performance, and review documentation with precision.
- Absence of any medical conditions disqualifying the individual from acting as Remote Pilot in Command, as defined by 14CFR §107.17
Background Check
This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.
EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure
Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.
E-Verify
The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.
Compensation: Salary plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.
