Senior Technician, Unmanned System Test Operator (R5413)

The role

This role runs flight test operations for the Hivemind autonomy portfolio. The person acts as primary operator and technical lead for Group 1/2 UAS test assets, keeping aircraft, payloads and ground systems mission-ready.

What you will do

• Operate flight test platforms for daily fly-fix-fly verification activities
• Serve as primary operator for Group 1/2 UAS platforms in developmental and operational testing
• Configure, inspect, maintain and troubleshoot aircraft, payloads, autopilot systems and ground control stations
• Coordinate aircraft readiness, pre-flight inspections, launch and recovery, and post-flight maintenance
• Execute operational test procedures and mission plans in line with safety requirements
• Support development and enforcement of SOPs, checklists and operational best practices
• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, airspace requirements, range procedures and company flight standards
• Assist in flight planning, airspace coordination, mission scheduling and operational risk assessments
• Work with software, systems, safety and flight operations teams on autonomy integration and validation

Required qualifications

• 5+ years operating and maintaining Group 1/2 UAS platforms in test, military, commercial or operational environments
• Strong knowledge of COTS UAS hardware, autopilot systems, ground control stations, communications systems and payload integration
• Experience developing, implementing and executing SOPs, checklists and operational processes
• Working knowledge of FAA regulations, National Airspace System operations, airspace coordination and flight authorization
• Experience conducting flight operations in dynamic and complex test environments
• Strong organizational, communication and mission planning skills
• Ability to coordinate with software, systems, safety and flight operations personnel
• FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent UAS operational experience
• Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET clearance

Nice to have

• Experience supporting autonomy, AI-enabled systems or developmental flight test programs, especially multi-aircraft or distributed UAS operations
• Fabrication experience with design and build of mechanical and electrical systems
• Familiarity with QGC, Mission Planner, Ardupilot or PX4
• Military UAS operations or test experience

Benefits

• Bonus for full-time regular employees
• Equity for full-time regular employees
• Benefits package for full-time regular employees
• Temporary benefits package for temporary employees, applicable after 60 days of employment

Before you apply

• U.S. citizenship required
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a SECRET clearance
• All offers are contingent on a cleared background check and possible reference check
• Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits

About the company

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company that builds intelligent systems to protect service members and civilians. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation technologies.