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Test Technician Lead - UAV

Ideal Aerosmith
7 days ago
Full-time
On-site
Rockville, Maryland, United States
$35 - $45 USD hourly
Drone Jobs

Ideal Aerosmith is a leading supplier of precision inertial guidance test systems, flight motion simulators, and a premier provider of aerospace test engineering services, ATE system engineering, and quality contract manufacturing services to the aerospace industry. We're experts and we earn that title everyday with our customers through innovative engineering, manufacturing, and sustainment of world-class motion and electric test solutions and services. 

Here, we don’t just solve complex problems - we redefine what’s possible. Every role at Ideal Aerosmith supports a lean culture through continuous improvement - ongoing, incremental enhancements to products, processes, or services aimed at reducing waste and boosting efficiency, customer service, and performance. With a team of skilled problem solvers and a culture that thrives on tackling challenges head-on, we are dedicated to our clients' success. Enjoy competitive benefits, a supportive work environment, and every other Friday off to recharge.

The Test Technician Lead – UAV is responsible for leading the execution of ground and flight test activities for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This role ensures aircraft are properly configured, tested, and ready for flight operations while supervising test technicians and coordinating closely with engineering and flight operations teams.

This is a highly hands-on role supporting prototype and production aircraft in both lab and field environments. The Test Technician Lead plays a critical role in maintaining execution tempo, troubleshooting issues in real time, and ensuring safe, repeatable, and successful test operations.

Job Responsibilities

  • Lead execution of ground and flight test operations for UAV systems
  • Supervise and coordinate test technicians during build, retrofit, and flight activities
  • Ensure aircraft readiness for test events, including configuration, system checks, and troubleshooting
  • Execute and support test cards, including pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight activities
  • Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and system integration issues on aircraft in real time
  • Work directly with engineering teams to implement fixes and improvements during test operations
  • Support field deployments, including setup and sustainment of flight operations from trailers or remote sites
  • Maintain configuration awareness across aircraft and ensure test articles match intended configurations
  • Perform system bring-up, validation, and functional checks on avionics, payloads, and communication systems
  • Drive test discipline, safety, and execution standards across all operations
  • Support rapid turnaround of aircraft between sorties, including inspections, repairs, and reconfiguration
  • Document test activities, discrepancies, and resolutions to support continuous improvement
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualification Requirements

  • 5+ years of experience in UAV/UAS operations, aerospace testing, or related technical field
  • Prior experience in a lead or supervisory role preferred
  • Strong background in aircraft systems, avionics, or mechanical/electrical integration
  • Experience supporting ground and/or flight test operations
  • Ability to travel (domestic and internationally) and obtain a passport
  • Due to federal contract requirements, candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. §1324b(a)(3)

Skill Requirements

  • Strong hands-on troubleshooting skills across electrical, mechanical, and integrated systems
  • Experience working with UAV systems, avionics, payloads, and communications systems
  • Ability to read and interpret schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation
  • Experience executing or supporting test plans and test cards
  • Familiarity with flight operations environments and safety procedures
  • Strong leadership and team coordination skills
  • Ability to operate in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving prototype and production environment
  • Strong attention to detail with focus on safety, quality, and execution
  • Effective communication skills across engineering, production, and flight teams
  • Basic computer skills for documentation, tracking, and system configuration

Physical Requirements

  • Must have the ability to lift and/or carry 45 lbs.
  • Ability to work for extended periods at computer workstation/keyboard.
  • Ability to type accurately and efficiently.
  • The position will require walking, standing, squatting, crouching, stooping, lifting, climbing, pulling, pushing, sitting, repetitive motion and kneeling.

Salary Range: $35.00-$45.00 Hourly. 

This salary range represents a good faith estimate of the base compensation for this position. Actual base compensation will be determined based on multiple factors, including location, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s qualifications, internal equity, experience, education, skills, and prevailing market conditions. In exceptional cases, compensation above this range may be considered based on experience, skills, or business needs.

This position is eligible for a discretionary annual performance bonus based on individual and company performance. Overtime eligibility, if applicable, will be determined in accordance with federal and state law.

Ideal Aerosmith additionally offers a comprehensive benefits program, which includes health, dental, vision, and voluntary benefits; 401K with company match; company-paid holidays; every other Friday off; and paid time off for vacation and personal time.

Ideal Aerosmith is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our goal is to create a work environment that celebrates diversity and inclusion, where all employees feel respected and valued. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals and strive to provide equal employment opportunities to everyone.