Flight Test Drone Operator - VERMEER : Job Details

Position: Flight Test Drone Operator

Location: Brooklyn, New York

Type: Full-time, In-person

Contact: [email protected]

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Job description

Vermeer is looking for a Flight Test Drone Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be an essential part of the validation process for our next gen of GPS-denied navigation, aerial computer vision, and AR/VR mission planning products. Your responsibilities will include flying, maintaining, developing, and testing alternative navigation products on multiple UAS platforms.

Drone operations will include Group 1 and 2 fixed-wing, VTOL, and multirotor UAS platforms. Collaboration with our engineering team will be crucial as you plan, execute, and report on test activities. Success in this role hinges on your ability to adapt to new requirements and manage flight operations across multiple projects.

While a BS in Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace, Aviation, or a related field is preferred, we will consider equivalent professional experience. Please note that non-technical or hobbyist experience limited to DJI or equivalent Group 1 UAS is not sufficient for this role. The ability to interpret technical documentation and integrate payloads onto aircraft is essential, as is hands-on experience with small power tools, lab test equipment, soldering, and custom wiring harnesses. Familiarity with basic electronics and troubleshooting (multimeter, oscilloscope etc) is a huge plus. Familiarity with Linux, Windows, and Android-based operating systems will be advantageous.

This is a full-time, in-person position out of our Brooklyn, NY office. A relocation stipend will be offered.

Required Qualifications:

FAA Part 107 Certification.

Significant experience - flying Group 2 or larger fixed-wing AND VTOL UAS. Candidates without VTOL experience will be considered given they have the background & experience to be up-trained quickly.

Significant experience - flying Group 1-2 multirotor UAS.

Significant experience - ground control software including Q Ground Control and Mission Planner.

Significant experience - PX4 / Ardupilot autopilot systems and MAVLINK.

Strong understanding of 14 CFR Part 107 regulations and FAA airspace, and FAA waivers.

Ability to conduct flight operations independently.

Basic understanding of drone electrical, mechanical, and software systems.

Technology background with troubleshooting skills and analytical research capabilities. Ability to research and interpret technical documentation.

Must possess a driver's license and be willing to operate a motor vehicle.

Preferred Qualifications:

Qualifications to operate complex civilian or government UAS systems.

Military training as an Air Vehicle Operator (AVO) or Pilot in Command (PIC).

Experience building custom drones or integrating drone components including custom payloads, cameras, sensing systems, hardware, electronics, wiring, GPS systems, autopilots, firmware, and software.

Background in software or computer science.

Proficiency in operating Linux, Ubuntu, Windows, and/or terminal commands.

Prior experience in software code/script building using programming languages.

Experience with prototype fabrication using 3D printing and/or CNC machining.

Ability to make independent decisions, troubleshoot, and repair electrical faults.

U.S. Citizenship may be required due to security clearance needs