UAS Flight Test Operator (I&II)

About the Team DoorDash Labs is an independent team within DoorDash. We explore robotics and automation to transform last-mile logistics in the long term. If you have a passion for applying autonomous aviation technologies in a service used by millions of people, then we want to talk to you! About the Role In this role as a UAS Flight Test Operator I/II, you’ll be part of a hands-on field testing team supporting flight validation of new drone platforms. You’ll work closely with engineering and flight leads to execute test flights safely, efficiently, and with precision—helping shape the future of autonomous aerial systems. You will be reporting to the Flight Test Lead.  Execute structured drone test flights in both manual and autonomous modes, adjusting flight parameters in real time based on evolving test plans and feedback. Support daily test readiness by performing pre- and post-flight checks, managing batteries, preparing equipment, and assisting with on-site logistics. Operate in field environments with extended periods of standing, repetitive drone handling, and outdoor exposure to varying weather (heat, dust, cold, wind, etc.). Stay flexible and responsive to shifting schedules, including early mornings, late afternoons, and variable hours based on test conditions. Open to about 20% travel.  Collaborate with cross-functional teams to surface observations, flag anomalies, and support iterative improvement cycles during testing. Please note: This is an onsite role based in Bay Point, CA. Only candidates who are local or within commuting distance will be considered.  You’re excited about this opportunity because you will… Operate and test drones as part of cutting-edge autonomous delivery development. Support flight testing , data collection, and troubleshooting for new drone systems. Work closely with engineering and operations teams to provide feedback and improve drone performance . Gain hands-on experience in emerging technology, working with a team in a fast-paced, iterative environment. Contribute to building the future of drone delivery through curiosity , adaptability , and a proactive mindset. We’re excited about you because… You’re Certified: You hold a Part 107 certification and have logged over 100+ flight hours in varied environments and have experience flying FPV/Acro Mode.  FAA certification is a “required qualification”: We collect FAA certification details solely to confirm eligibility for this position You Know the Airspace: You understand FAA regulations, operational risk, and best practices for safe and compliant drone flight. You’re Tech-Savvy and Curious: You’re excited about testing new drone technology and enjoy solving technical problems in real-time. You Think Critically: You bring analytical thinking and attention to detail to identify issues, document results, and iterate on improvements. You know Firmware: You've worked with PX4, ArduPilot, Auterion, or Herelink -based systems. You’ve Been on the Frontlines: You've contributed to drone development , aerospace, or robotic testing programs. You Collaborate Well: You work effectively with cross-functional teams—especially engineers, operators, and leadership to drive progress. You have hands on skills: You have the ability to fly different flight modes to help collect data and provide feedback on new drones. You Communicate Clearly: You share insights and updates with clarity and purpose, whether it’s writing flight logs, surfacing blockers, or presenting findings. Because this position requires an active FAA certificate, we’ll need to verify your license through the FAA Airmen Inquiry system during the interview process. You will be required to provide your FAA certificate number so we can confirm your credentials. We use this information solely to verify eligibility for the role and handle it securely. Why Join Us? You'll be on the front lines of aerial innovation, directly contributing to the development and validation of new drone systems. This is a high-impact, high-autonomy role where your field skills, judgment, and communication directly shape product safety, performance, and readiness.  Expect meaningful work, fast iteration, and a chance to help define the future of drone logistics. Notice to Applicants for Jobs Located in NYC or Remote Jobs Associated With Office in NYC Only We use Covey as part of our hiring and/or promotional process for jobs in NYC and certain features may qualify it as an AEDT in NYC. As part of the hiring and/or promotion process, we provide Covey with job requirements and candidate submitted applications. We began using Covey Scout for Inbound from August 21, 2023, through December 21, 2023, and resumed using Covey Scout for Inbound again on June 29, 2024. The Covey tool has been reviewed by an independent auditor. Results of the audit may be viewed here: Covey Compensation Actual compensation within the pay range listed below will be decided based on factors including, but not limited to, skills, prior relevant experience, and specific work location. Base salary is localized according to employee work location.  DoorDash cares about you and your overall well-being. That’s why we offer a comprehensive benefits package to all regular employees, which includes a 401(k) plan with employer matching, 16 weeks of paid parental leave, wellness benefits, commuter benefits match, paid time off and paid sick leave in compliance with applicable laws (e.g. Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act). DoorDash also offers medical, dental, and vision benefits, 11 paid holidays, disability and basic life insurance, family-forming assistance, and a mental health program, among others. To learn more about our benefits, visit our careers page here . See below for paid time off details: For salaried roles: flexible paid time off/vacation, plus 80 hours of paid sick time per year. For hourly roles: vacation ac