Senior Flight Test Operator, Half Moon Bay

Back to jobs Senior Flight Test Operator, Half Moon Bay Half Moon Bay, California, USA Apply About You and The Role The Staff Flight Test Operator is a technical leader responsible for planning, prioritization, execution, and continuous improvement of Zipline's large scale, flight testing operation. This role blends deep systems-level engineering thinking with hands-on flight operations expertise to ensure we test the right things, at the right time, with precision, velocity, and uncompromising safety. You will own the integration and execution of complex test campaigns, resolve technical blockers, raise and mitigate risks, and translate flight test results into actionable engineering insights. You will also lead multi-week validation campaigns, manage resources and infrastructure bring-up, and pioneer new tools and processes that expand the throughput and quality of Zipline's flight testing capability. This role requires someone who thrives at the intersection of engineering, operations, and leadership, jumping into detailed data analysis or debugging, and guiding teams through ambiguous, high-stakes challenges. What You'll Do Own and execute flight test operations across multiple aircraft platforms, including prototype and early production systems Perform preflight validation, instrumentation setup, flight execution, monitoring, and post-flight data collection Troubleshoot and resolve issues across electromechanical systems, flight controls, and software, escalating when needed Partner with engineering teams to align on test objectives, priorities, and success criteria Analyze flight data to identify anomalies, validate performance, and recommend next steps Generate clear and structured test documentation and reports to support engineering decision-making Support execution of larger validation and certification campaigns, including defined test protocols and procedures Contribute to the development and improvement of operational processes, checklists, and tooling Help coordinate test activities on shift, ensuring safe and efficient execution Mentor and support junior flight test operators, reinforcing best practices and SOP compliance Maintain safety standards in a fast-paced test environment, proactively identifying and mitigating risk Travel to support flight operations at different test sites as needed Flexibility to work an array of schedule structures including, but not limited to: day, swing, nights, weekends, rotationa What You'll Bring Must have technical skills FAA Part 107 Certification or other piloting experience Strong aeronautical decision making skills and familiarity with flight controller functions 2+ years of experience in aviation, robotics, or autonomous systems testing Experience executing flight tests and troubleshooting electromechanical systems Strong communication, documentation, and organizational skills Ability to manage multiple competing priorities in a dynamic environment Hands-on experience working with hardware systems in the field Ability to make timely, sound decisions during flight operations Nice to have technical skills Experience working in a Linux command line environment Experience with rapid prototyping tools (3D printing, laser cutting, etc.) Experience supporting structured test campaigns or certification efforts What Else You Need to Know Please note that you: Must be a US citizen or Permanent Resident. Part 107 License Preferred, and required prior to starting. Must be able to relocate to Half Moon Bay, CA The starting cash range for this role is $44 to $51/Hour. Please note that this is a target, starting cash range for a candidate who meets the minimum qualifications for this role. The final cash pay for this role will depend on a variety of factors, including a specific candidate's experience, qualifications, skills, working location, and projected impact. The total compensation package for this role may also include: equity compensation; overtime pay; discretionary annual or performance bonuses; sales incentives; benefits such as medical, dental and vision insurance; paid time off; and more. Zipline is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws or our own sensibilities. We value diversity at Zipline and welcome applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. If you like the sound of this position but are not sure if you are the perfect fit, please apply! Apply for this job

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