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 Flight Test Operator 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. From initial build validation and autonomous testing, to field deployment, and customer demonstrations. You will pilot UAVs, assist in test event planning, manage flight readiness of aircraft, and ensure all operations comply with rigorous safety and regulatory standards. You’ll be a key contributor to the continuous improvement of our flight operations processes and documentation, 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 have the opportunity to be a critical operator within the Flight Test Team, helping shape how our UAVs perform in the real world, and pushing the boundaries of what modular UAVs can do.
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What You’ll Do
- Pilot fixed-wing UAVs for developmental testing, training, and live demonstrations.
- Conduct Functional Check Flights (FCF) on newly assembled aircraft and verify flight readiness.
- Support planning and execution of flight test events, including logistics, scheduling, and resource coordination.
- Train and evaluate Remote Pilots in Command (RPICs) and Safety Pilots (SPs) on operational procedures.
- Assist in developing and maintaining training materials, flight manuals, and SOPs.
- Develop flight and assembly training curriculum and deliver to customers
- Verify aircraft configuration against test cards and bills of material prior to deployment.
- Track aircraft status and manage inventory of flight-critical components and support equipment.
- Coordinate with test ranges and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and secure necessary approvals.
- Execute and support test campaigns using both sub-scale and full-scale UAV platforms.
- Collect, analyze, and document test data; provide actionable feedback to engineering teams.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with autonomy, software, hardware, and manufacturing teams to communicate field observations.
- Participate in customer demonstrations, training sessions, and field exercises as a technical subject matter expert.
- Continuously identify areas for process improvement in safety, logistics, and test execution.
- Maintain currency with FAA regulations, airspace classifications, and UAS operational best practices.
- Coordinate with private and government test ranges to conduct flight testing and obtain appropriate regulatory approvals
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
- 2+ years of remote pilot in control experience
- 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
- Familiarity with flight documentation including checklists, test cards, and post-flight reports
- Experience working collaboratively with technical teams to provide feedback on system performance and reliability
- 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
- Hands-on knowledge of UAS hardware, avionics, telemetry systems, and ground control stations
- Proficiency in or exposure to robotics-related programming languages (e.g., Python, C++)
- FAA Class III (or higher) Medical Certificate
- 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 20% domestically for flight testing, field operations, integration events, & customer support.
- 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: $90,000 - $130,000 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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