Demo

Drone Operator

Five and Fly
Sunnyvale, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 12/30/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/28/2026
DescriptionWe’re hiring a Drone Operator to support our unmanned aerial systems (UAS) programs and ensure our platforms are ready to execute in the field. A Drone Operator is responsible for the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and readiness of Scout’s aerial robotics and support equipment.You’ll spend most of your week in the field, conducting flight tests, operating drones in diverse mission scenarios, and keeping our fleet in peak condition. This role is highly hands-on: you’ll be flying, troubleshooting, repairing, updating software, and ensuring that we’re conducting flights in mission-relevant conditions. Your work is the backbone that enables flight testing, data collection, and rapid iteration on cutting-edge autonomy.We’re a startup. You’ll be moving fast, context-switching daily, and helping define the culture and process as we go. This is a rare opportunity to come in early and architect the future of defense.Why Join Us!Work on the world’s most important frontier, ensuring U.S. and allied dominance in the age of intelligent machinesBe a core part of a team building the first defense-specific robotic foundation modelCollaborate with some of the top engineers in autonomy, AI, and national securitySee your work deployed on real systemsHelp define the future of intelligent defense systemsBacked by Draper Associates, Booz Allen Ventures, and other top investorsKey ResponsibilitiesOperate Scout’s unmanned aerial systems (UAS) during test missions, training, and field operationsConduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections to ensure airworthiness and mission readinessMaintain, troubleshoot, and repair drones and associated ground support equipmentLog flight hours, maintenance actions, and mission data for reporting and complianceSupport engineers by executing test plans, capturing data, and providing operator feedbackSafely transport, stage, and deploy drones across a variety of environmentsStay current with UAS software, firmware, and autonomy system updatesEnforce safe operating procedures and adhere to regulatory requirementsCollaborate with cross-functional teams to prepare platforms for demonstrations and field trialsQualificationsFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot CertificateHands-on experience operating drones in training, testing, or mission environmentsStrong technical skills with UAV hardware, electronics, and ground control systemsAbility to perform field-level maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairsComfortable working outdoors in a variety of conditions and environmentsStrong attention to detail and commitment to safe operating practicesAbility to lift, transport, and set up drone systems and support equipmentClear written and verbal communication skills for logging missions and reporting resultsLegal authorization to work in the United States is required. Certain job duties may involve access to U.S. export-controlled informationBenefitsCompetitive base salary and bonusMeaningful equityPremium medical, dental, and vision plans with $0 paycheck contributionCompetitive PTO and company holiday calendarCatered lunch daily and fully stocked kitchenEV chargingRelocation assistance (depending on role eligibility)

Salary : $21 - $27

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