Senior Flight Test Engineer - Group 1-3 VTOL

The Test and Evaluation team at Anduril plays a crucial role in our mission , ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Our team conducts full system level development testing, new production acceptance testing, software validation testing and much more. This position is looking for a highly motivated flight test engineer with emphasis in software/hardware capability development and evaluation for Group 1-3 platforms. You will be responsible for the evaluation of the software and hardware capabilities for operational suitability as well integration into the full suite of Anduril systems to complete complex operations.

What you’ll do

• As a Senior Flight Test Engineer you will partner with engineering to and be responsible for test planning, execution, reporting, and evaluating the system under test (software and/or hardware).


• Test duties include:


• Supporting daily flight test operations and campaigns at multiple test locations. Candidate will support and plan test events in support of the product roadmap and production schedule.


• Manage and oversee a sound configuration management plan and of test assets in preparation for multiple test campaigns.


• Manage an inventory plan to keep all assets fully mission capable and ready for test.


• Coach and mentor team to prepare for test readiness reviews, safety review boards, and operational test readiness. Create and disseminate test reports that create awareness for all stakeholders on system status in varying test campaigns and/or initiatives.


• Generate and oversee the execution of test cards, pre- and post-flight briefings, and manage test events with a broad support team (pilots, engineering subject matter experts, etc.).


• Collaborate with SMEs and cross functional teams within the business line through development and production testing, reporting of test findings, and test status. This includes adjudication of testing tasks and characterization of issues, observations, and detailing results.


• Interface daily with hardware and software engineering teams.


• Collect metrics and report on metrics that highlight product performance, progression, and maturity.

Required Qualifications

• Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related technical discipline from an accredited institution.




• Master’s degree in a relevant field is a plus.


• Aviation Experience: Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in flight testing, flight test planning, or aviation systems development.




• Hands-on experience with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, or aircraft systems integration is strongly preferred.


• Flight Test Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of flight test principles, including test planning, execution, and data analysis.




• Familiarity with test card development, safety risk assessments, and test methodology.


• Experience in a range of flight test environments, such as performance, avionics, or systems testing.


• Technical Aptitude: Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to quickly understand new technical concepts and apply them effectively.




• Ability to assess and mitigate technical risks during flight testing.


• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.




• Capable of clearly documenting test plans, procedures, and results.


• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across teams, including engineering, program management, and operations.


• Regulatory Knowledge: Current or ability to obtain FAA 14 CFR Part 107 certification for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems.




• Knowledge of FAA regulations and National Airspace procedures, particularly as they relate to manned and unmanned aircraft operations.


• Project Management: Experience coordinating multi-disciplinary teams for complex test activities.




• Strong organizational skills to manage work phases, timelines, and deliverables.


• Security Requirements: Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.


• Work Environment Flexibility:




• Willingness and ability to work extended hours as required.


• Ability to travel for test planning, execution, and customer engagements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong software and documentation experience; familiarity with Linux-based operating systems. Experience with GitHub, CircleCI, ssh, bash, and command line.


• Knowledge and experience with Group 1/2 rotary systems that utilize commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) flight control systems and Ardupilot firmware.


• Experience working DoD programs.


• Familiarity with remote operations and ground control stations.


• Prior experience with military or civilian flight test operations.


• Direct experience working with UAS platforms or autonomous systems.


• Test Pilot School experience or equivalent training is highly desirable.

US Salary Range

$146,000 - $194,000 USD

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:

Healthcare Benefits

• US Roles: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost to you.


• UK & AUS Roles: We cover full cost of medical insurance premiums for you and your dependents.


• IE Roles: We offer an annual contribution toward your private health insurance for you and your dependents.

Additional Benefits

• Income Protection : Anduril covers life and disability insurance for all employees.


• Generous time off : Highly competitive PTO plans with a holiday hiatus in December. Caregiver & Wellness Leave is available to care for family members, bond with a new baby, or address your own medical needs.


• Family Planning & Parenting Support: Coverage for fertility treatments (e.g., IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carriers, along with resources to support you and your partner from planning to parenting.


• Mental Health Resources: Access free mental health resources 24/7, including therapy and life coaching. Additional work-life services, such as legal and financial support, are also available.


• Professional Development: Annual reimbursement for professional development


• Commuter Benefits: Company-funded commuter benefits based on your region.


• Relocation Assistance: Available depending on role eligibility.

Retirement Savings Plan

• US Roles: Traditional 401(k), Roth, and after-tax (mega backdoor Roth) options.


• UK & IE Roles: Pension plan with employer match.


• AUS Roles: Superannuation plan.

The recruiter assigned to this role can share more information about the specific compensation and benefit details associated with this role during the hiring process.

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