About Grid.aero
Grid.aero is building the next generation of autonomous aviation systems for defense and commercial applications. Led by experienced aerospace and technology operators and backed by leading venture investors, we solve hard operational problems at the intersection of autonomy, resilient logistics, and scalable air mobility. We move quickly, operate with urgency, and build systems designed for real-world deployment where small teams own meaningful problems end-to-end.
Read this, we mean it → Above all, we look for exceptional builders with deep internal drive, massive throughput, hopeless optimism, and a relentless growth mindset. The people who thrive at Grid operate with urgency, learn quickly, adapt fast, and are energized by hard problems with no obvious answers. We value individuals who continuously push themselves and the team around them to improve.
This is an opportunity to work on products with national and global impact alongside a collaborative team that values technical excellence, execution, and mission focus.
Role Overview
Grid Aero is seeking an Experimental Test Pilot (Contract) to execute the flight testing of our large, fixed-wing autonomous aircraft. You will operate cutting-edge systems from the ground control station, help shape test plans, and execute developmental and envelope-expansion flights that push the frontier of autonomous aviation. Working closely with engineering, operations, and safety teams, you'll turn prototypes into proven aircraft, translating flight data into insights that accelerate Grid's path to certification and deployment. You will champion a “test often, test safely” culture, driving disciplined, high-frequency testing that balances learning velocity with flight test safety best practices and process.
What You'll Do
● Operate Grid's fixed-wing autonomous aircraft from the ground control station during flight test campaigns.
● Participate in daily brief and debrief sessions.
● Participate in simulation, training, and flight rehearsals to validate aircraft systems and test procedures.
● Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to plan, execute, and document developmental flight testing.
● Contribute to the creation and refinement of flight procedures, test cards, and operational checklists.
● Provide feedback on aircraft handling qualities, human factors, automation behavior, and system performance to guide iterative improvements in the aircraft and interfaces.
Who You Are
● A mission-driven test pilot who thrives on pushing the edge of what's possible in large, uncrewed aircraft.
● A disciplined aviator who balances technical precision with safety-first judgment in dynamic test environments.
● A collaborative teammate who communicates clearly across engineering, operations, and program management.
● A self-starter comfortable with the ambiguity and problem-solving pace of prototype development.
● Excited to help shape procedures, test methodologies, and team culture in a fast-moving startup environment.
Qualifications
● FAA Commercial Pilot (AMEL) with 1,500+ total fixed-wing hours, including multi-engine experience.
● Hands-on experience in experimental or developmental flight test programs, including
ground testing and test build up.
● Background in large fly-by-wire aircraft testing, including remote piloting of UAS or optionally piloted vehicles.
● Broad flight experience across multiple single- and multi-engine aircraft types.
● Experience authoring or contributing to flight procedures, checklists, and test documentation.
● Bachelor's degree in STEM
● Willingness to travel regularly to the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Valley of California.
Preferred Qualifications
● Graduation from a recognized Test Pilot School.
● Experience in a startup aircraft development program.
● Background as a Instructor/Evaluator or mentor to flight test teams
Compensation: $80-120/hr
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Grid.aero is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an
inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for
employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual
orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Legal Notice:
This position must meet export control compliance requirements. To meet export control
compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.15 is required. “U.S. Person”
includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.