Flight Operations Test Manager

** Worker Type
** Regular
* * Job Description
** The Flight Operations Test Manager will lead all flight-test and range operations for advanced military systems—primarily electronic warfare (EW) and other mission-critical hardware. This role is highly hands-on, spending approximately 75% of time building and flying drones, executing field testing, supporting drone data collection in the office and in the wild, hardware integration, firmware/software updates, and test-range setup/maintenance. The remaining 25% focuses on operational planning, range administration, regulatory compliance, and coordination with federal and DoD agencies.
This position manages a small team (2–3 personnel) and requires an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate along with experience operating and testing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in a defense environment. The ideal candidate is general / entry-level familiar with federal spectrum and flight-authority processes.

Key Responsibilities
* Field Operations & Test Execution (≈75%)
* Lead and conduct flight operations, field experiments, and test events for EW and other defense hardware systems.
* Build, integrate, and maintain prototype hardware, including electronics, RF components, UAS platforms, sensors, and associated test equipment.
* Perform firmware upgrades, software deployments, diagnostics, and troubleshooting on test articles and support systems.
* Oversee test range setup, calibration, environmental preparation, and system validation prior to mission execution.
* Operate UAS platforms (multi-rotor and fixed-wing) in compliance with Part 107 and project-specific operational requirements.
* Document test results, anomalies, mission logs, and system performance metrics in accordance with engineering and program standards.
* Operations Management & Administration (≈25%)
* Support management of all regulatory and permitting workflows related to spectrum use, flight operations, and range activities, including:
* NTIA frequency authorization requests
* FAA COAs, waivers, NOTAM submissions, and mission approvals
* FCC licensing for RF emissions where applicable
* Coordination with DoD Range Control, Spectrum Managers, and related agencies
* Develop, maintain, and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and flight-test documentation.
* Oversee scheduling, logistics planning, and risk assessment for all test events.
* Manage a small team of test specialists, ensuring proper training, task assignments, and performance oversight.
* Maintain accountability for range equipment, UAS systems, tools, and compliance documentation.
* Serve as the primary point of contact for internal stakeholders, government partners, and external regulatory bodies.

Required Qualifications
* FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
* 5–10+ years of experience in flight operations, test range management, or UAS integration—preferably in a defense or government environment.
* Hands-on experience with UAS hardware, electronics, RF systems, and field test instrumentation.
* Initial / entry-level understanding of US Gov. frequency management processes
* Demonstrated ability to lead small teams in fast-paced, field-oriented technical environments.
* Experience with firmware flashing, embedded systems updates, and software configuration workflows.
* Excellent technical documentation, mission planning, and communication skills.
* Ability to lift equipment, work outdoors in varied conditions, and travel frequently to test sites.

Preferred Qualifications
* Experience supporting Electronic Warfare (EW), RF, or SIGINT systems.
* Prior military, DoD contractor, or government test-range background.
* Familiarity with system safety processes, MIL-STD test procedures, or range safety certifications.
* Understanding of NTIA frequency management processes
* FAA Part 107, COA/waiver processes, airspace classifications
* FCC equipment authorization and spectrum regulations
* DoD or government test-range operations (preferred)
* Experience with secure communications, encryption devices, or classified hardware handling.
* Engineering degree in aerospace, electrical, mechanical, or related field (or equivalent…