UAS Test Pilot, EP

San Diego, CA$92,000 - $121,0005+ years

Who We Are

At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.

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. From build validation and flight testing to field deployment and customer demonstrations, you will pilot UAVs, perform safety pilot duties, assist in test event planning, and help ensure all operations meet rigorous safety and regulatory standards.

You’ll be a key contributor to maintaining fleet readiness and supporting flight test execution, working closely with engineering, flight operations, and integration teams. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced, cross-functional environments and enjoys working hands-on with complex, autonomous systems. You’ll play a critical role in ensuring our UAVs are prepared, reliable, and mission-ready in real-world conditions.

What You’ll Do

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
Coordinate 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&D
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

Required Qualifications

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
FAA 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
Background in startup or high-growth environments

Work Environment

Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA
This role requires an on-site presence
Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. and wear appropriate PPE [as required]
Willingness to travel up to 30% domestically for flight testing, field operations, integration events, & customer support.
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record to support offsite flight operations & testing.
This role will include working in an outdoor environment under various weather conditions.

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and may involve exposure to loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE). This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard machine equipment as well as standard office equipment. Must be physically capable of tolerating loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE).

Compensation

US Salary Range: $92,000 - $121,000 USD

The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.

Benefits & Perks

Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
Equity grants for new hires
Unlimited PTO
Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
Generous Parental Leave
Lifestyle Spending Account
FSA
DCFSA
HSA
Hospital Indemnity insurance
Critical Illness insurance
Accident insurance
Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance

To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.

Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.

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