Description
Senior Manager, Flight Test Engineering
Location: San Diego, CA
Department: Engineering
Location Type: IN_OFFICE
Employment Type: FULL_TIME
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About the Role
At Firestorm, we are building autonomous aerial systems that operate where they are needed most, when they are needed most. Our mission requires speed, ingenuity, and a relentless commitment to engineering excellence. Firestorm is seeking a Senior Manager to lead our Flight Test team & drive execution and coordination across the full development lifecycle of our unmanned aerial systems.
As the Senior Manager of Flight Test Engineering at Firestorm Labs, you will lead the team responsible for planning, executing, and evaluating the flight test activities that validate our autonomous aerial systems. You will mentor, develop, and guide a high-performing group of flight test engineers, setting technical direction while fostering a culture of accountability, curiosity, and operational excellence. While you will collaborate closely with Flight Test Operations, your core ownership is the engineering strategy behind test design, system integration, instrumentation, and data analysis.
In this role, you will shape the engineering roadmap for flight testing, partner cross-functionally to resolve complex integration challenges, and build processes that support rapid iteration without compromising safety or rigor. You’ll leverage deep experience with unmanned systems to translate development priorities into executable test plans, accelerate system maturation, and help deliver mission-ready capabilities that push the boundaries of autonomous aviation. The ideal candidate will drive operational excellence across test activities, ensure regulatory compliance, and optimize cross-functional collaboration to deliver mission-critical autonomous systems that transform defense capabilities.
What You’ll Do
- Lead both the Flight Test Engineering Team, providing technical guidance, and leadership.
- Establish and refine flight test methodologies for evaluating mission autonomy capabilities using surrogate vehicles in fast-paced test environments
- Develop long-term capacity planning for flight test capabilities to support future product initiatives and company growth
- Drive cross-functional collaboration with Operations, Product, Engineering and Program Management to align test strategies with product development roadmaps
- Cultivate a strong organizational foundation focused on safety standards, regulatory adherence, and performance
- Ensure compliance with FAA and other regulatory requirements throughout all flight test operations
- Collaborate with government entities and private companies to execute complex test events that meet all stakeholder requirements
- Manage resource allocation, budgeting, and scheduling for flight test campaigns across multiple programs
- Create and implement standardized processes, metrics, and KPIs to measure test effectiveness and drive continuous improvement
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related field
- 10+ years of experience in testing unmanned aerial systems with at least 5 years in a leadership position
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
- Proven expertise in both software and hardware integration for complex autonomous systems
- Demonstrated success leading flight test operations as a Test Director for mission-critical platforms
- Strong understanding of aviation regulations and compliance requirements for unmanned systems
- Experience managing technical teams with diverse skill sets across operations and engineering
- Exceptional problem-solving abilities for troubleshooting complex hardware and software issues
- Outstanding communication skills for conveying technical concepts to stakeholders at all levels
- Flexibility to adapt to dynamic schedules and willingness to travel to test sites as required
- Current FAA Part 107 certification or ability to obtain one
- Ability to operate in fast paced, iterative development environments
Preferred Qualifications
- Masters degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related field
- 12+ years of experience in an aerospace or defense engineering role supporting
- Experience with test automation frameworks for complex system integration
- Familiarity with autonomy, onboard compute, or AI or ML enabled edge systems
- Acquainted with DoD, NASA, or defense UAS programs
Work Environment
- Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA
- We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate
- Willingness to travel up to 40% domestically for testing and demonstrations
- Ability to work flexible hours and travel to various testing locations as needed
Compensation
US Salary Range: $165,000 - $195,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Equity grants for new hires
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
- Generous Parental Leave
- Lifestyle Spending Account
- FSA
- DCFSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
Export Control Compliance
To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] so we can provide the support you need.
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