Drone Test Technician / Pilot
Hourly · No benefits · Durham, NC area · On-site · Occasional travel (<10%)
Windlift builds tethered aircraft, and we need a hands-on technician who can build, fix, and fly multirotor test platforms. You’ll spend your days in the shop and on the flight line, not behind a desk. We care about what you can do more than what’s on your résumé, so experienced hobbyists and self-taught builders are encouraged to apply.
What you’ll do
- Build, modify, and repair RC-class multirotor and fixed-wing test aircraft
- Pilot multirotor aircraft during test flights, including manual flying when autopilot isn’t an option
- Fabricate parts and fixtures using hand tools, machine tools, a laser cutter, and 3-D printers
- Set up and run lab instruments during bench and flight tests
- Support occasional day-long or overnight test trips (less than 10% of your time)
What we’re looking for
- Real experience building RC drones or aircraft, including using machine and hand tools where the job calls for it
- Intermediate or expert-level multirotor piloting skills
- Experience with, or a strong interest in learning, lab instruments, laser cutters, 3-D printers, and similar shop equipment
- Willingness to travel for testing a few times a year
Nice to have
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
- Strong soldering and wiring skills
- Experience with ArduPilot and Mission Planner
- Testing background, including experience planning or coordinating test campaigns
