Flight Test Engineer Full Time NEW

About Us:

Grid Aero is a VC-backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense and commercial markets. We are focused on solving real-world problems that will shape the future of the industry. Led by aerospace veterans and supported by leading venture firms, Grid is at the forefront of developing autonomous systems that will revolutionize how goods move through the skies.

Be part of a fast-growing, high-impact startup in early days. At Grid, your work will shape critical industries, driving innovation at the intersection of national security and global commerce.

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to join our small but high-impact team. In this role, you will work in close collaboration with our CTO and own the execution, instrumentation, and analysis of flight test campaigns on our full scale and subscale UAVs.

You will serve as the bridge between software, hardware, autonomy, and operations — ensuring that every test flight produces high-quality data, validated performance insights, and actionable engineering feedback.

As an early hire in the flight test team, you’ll help establish Grid’s flight test processes, data validation standards, and safety protocols from the ground up. You’ll work closely with leadership and cross-functional engineering teams to ensure our systems are robust, reliable, and mission-ready.

If you’re excited about building and testing real autonomous aircraft in a fast-moving startup environment, this role is for you.

What You’ll Do:

Plan and execute flight test campaigns, including test cards, safety reviews, and post-flight debriefs

Act as a Test Director or Ground Control Station crew member for ground and flight tests, and related simulation rehearsals.

Own onboard and ground-based instrumentation setup for aircraft and support systems

Validate autonomy, navigation, communication, and control system performance during live operations

Analyze flight logs and sensor data to identify system-level behaviors, anomalies, and improvement opportunities

Collaborate with software, controls, and mechanical teams to close the loop between test results and design iteration

Establish structured flight test processes, documentation standards, and reporting frameworks

Travel regularly to Merced, CA for flight operations and field testing (expenses covered)

Who You Are:

Mission-Driven: You’re passionate about solving big, complex problems through technology and driven by the chance to change industries.

Innovator: You thrive on the challenge of working with cutting-edge technologies and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Builder: You enjoy the excitement and impact of working at an early-stage startup where your contributions directly shape the future.

Collaborative: You work well with diverse, cross-functional teams and are excited to lead, mentor, and inspire others.

Key Qualifications:

B.S. or M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Experience supporting flight tests, robotics field testing, or complex system validation

Strong experience with data analysis (Python, MATLAB, or similar tools)

Familiarity with telemetry systems, onboard instrumentation, and sensor integration

Understanding of control systems, autonomy stacks, or robotic platforms

Comfort working with Linux-based systems and embedded platforms

Experience in early-stage startups or fast-paced R&D environments

Interest in autonomy, AI, and aviation (direct aviation experience is a plus, but not required)

Experience with fixed-wing aircraft envelope expansion and performance testing is a plus.

A degree or certificate from a Test Pilot School is a plus.

Why Join Grid.aero:

Mission First: Tackle some of the most important national security issues of the day.

Ownership: Receive a significant equity stake and help build the future of Grid.aero.

Impact: As one of our first hires, you’ll have a direct and visible impact on the success of the company.

Innovation: Lead the architecture of a game-changing product that will redefine the air logistics industry.

Growth: Work alongside experienced aerospace founders and grow with the company as a key technical leader.

Compensation: $140k -$170k / 0.2-0.3% Equity

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Grid.aero is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Legal Notice:

Grid.aero is committed to complying with U.S. export control laws. Due to the nature of our work, candidates must be U.S. persons (U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).