Kenya Unveils Game-Changing Drone Corridor To Revolutionize Urban Air Mobility
Konza Technopolis Launches Game-Changing Drone Initiative
Kenya’s first smart city, Konza …
04. August 2025
Redsky Engineering Launches Groundbreaking Drone Rd Test Pilot Program
RedSky Engineering, a dynamic company specializing in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), is pushing the boundaries of innovation in various industries. As part of their efforts, they are seeking a skilled and motivated Electrical Engineering Technician to join their team as a Drone R&D Test Pilot.
The RedSky Engineering team consists of experts who share a passion for research and development, with a strong focus on creating solutions that make a real difference. This is not just another drone operator role; it’s a systems-level test pilot position that requires a professional with in-depth knowledge of UAVs, flight dynamics, and autonomous system behavior.
As a Drone R&D Test Pilot at RedSky Engineering, you will be responsible for leading developmental flight test operations for next-generation UAS platforms. Your expertise will be crucial in validating novel sensors, software behaviors, or custom airframes, and translating pilot feedback into system updates. You will work closely with engineering teams to develop test plans that validate these advancements.
Key responsibilities include planning, executing, and logging complex test flights for UAV platforms in early-stage development. You will also conduct pre-flight risk assessments, test card reviews, range safety coordination, and airworthiness validation. Serving as pilot-in-command (PIC) or safety pilot for autonomous and semi-autonomous missions requires rapid decision-making authority in-flight.
Effective communication and collaboration are essential skills for a successful Drone R&D Test Pilot. You will work closely with engineers, autonomy developers, and program leadership to ensure safe, efficient, and insightful flight testing in both controlled and expeditionary environments. Your ability to translate technical concepts into actionable design improvements will be invaluable to the team.
Systems integration is also critical, as you will manage payload integration, telemetry systems, and remote GCS (Ground Control Station) operation. Companion tools like Mission Planner, QGroundControl, or custom GCS interfaces will be used to configure and install components such as motors, props, ESC, batteries, etc.
To be considered for this opportunity, the following minimum qualifications must be met:
- 5+ years of UAV flight experience, with a strong record of safe and autonomous flight operations
- 2+ years of experience supporting UAS R&D programs (DOD, academia, commercial prototype environments)
- Full remote pilot capability – ability to safely fly with minimal flight controller assistance (RC helicopter, FPV drone in ‘rate’ stabilized mode)
- Demonstrated mastery of Pixhawk and related GCS software
- In-depth understanding of aircraft dynamics, flight envelopes, and autonomous system behavior
- FAA Part 107 certified (or higher-rated pilot certification)
The benefits for this role include competitive compensation and a comprehensive package. Pay ranges from $65k to $105k USD per year, with additional perks such as paid time off, paid sick leave, dental insurance, health insurance, and holidays.
RedSky Engineering is a dynamic company that specializes in UAV systems, committed to developing cutting-edge technology for various industries. With a strong focus on research and development, we are dedicated to creating solutions that make a real difference in the world. Our team of experts is passionate about innovation and experimentation, and we invite you to join us on this exciting journey.
Innovative companies like RedSky Engineering are shaping the future of Unmanned Aerial Systems. As a Drone R&D Test Pilot at our company, you will be part of a talented team that is pushing the boundaries of what is possible with UAVs. Apply now to join our team and contribute your expertise to developing cutting-edge technology for diverse applications.