Production Qualifications Test Pilot

El Segundo, California, United States

Who we are

Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America’s drone industrial base. We design and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are tested in combat, iterated at startup speed, and built at massive scale. Our team culture is fast, hands-on, and obsessed with closing the gap between design and deployment.

As drones transform the character of warfare, Neros is delivering the systems the West needs to compete on the modern battlefield and deter the adversaries of democracy. We’re hiring engineers, operators, and builders who want to move fast, take on extreme ownership, and get capability into the hands of warfighters in months, not years.

What you will be doing

Neros is seeking skilled pilots to fly our FPV's. This position involves a blend of R&D testing, flight operations, and product demonstrations, requiring strong technical expertise and exceptional piloting skills. The ideal candidate will work closely with engineers to refine FPV systems, execute test flights, and may engage with customers about our products. 

This position will primarily be designated as the Production Qualifications Test Pilot. This person will be expected to demonstrate precise acrobatic maneuvers, and the craft will be tested in manual acrobatic mode via line of sight.  Flight testing will be the critical skillset for this role as well as additional responsibilities.  

Responsibilities

Flight Operations & Piloting: 

• First-Person-View acro flying.
• Adapting well to uncomfortable situations/performing under pressure.
• Operating within FAA Part 107 regulations. 

Production Line Assembly: 

• Ability to read and execute work instructions for sub and main assemblies 
• Work on both brand new builds as well as non-conformant rework 

R&D Testing & Development: 

• Collaborate with engineers on air and ground systems, assisting in design feedback, testing, and refinement.
• Develop a deep understanding of system integration and functionality.
• Conduct daily test flights and provide technical feedback.
• Assist in developing and improving test procedures and safety protocols.  

Qualifications

• Expert-level acro FPV drone piloting.
• Expert in Betaflight.
• PID tuning and blackbox.
• Strong technical understanding of UAV systems (both air and ground components).
• Part 107 certified (or ability to obtain).
• Proficiency in safety and risk assessment.
• Mechanical assembly experience, including hands-on work with UAV components.
• Basic knowledge of electrical systems and how they integrate into UAV platforms.
• High attention to detail.
• Strong documentation and communication skills.
• Ability to adapt to challenging environments and remain composed under pressure. 

US Salary Range

$30.00 - $40.00 USD per hour 

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary 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 considered part of Neros' total compensation package.

We’re an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all applicants without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.