The Baby Airship team is seeking a dedicated GNC test engineer to contribute to our flight test operations of our sub-scale model. We are looking for a versatile engineer with experience in three critical domains—Mechanical, Software, or GNC—to integrate directly with our hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and flight prototyping workflows. The test engineer will work with flight test plans, execute flight test preparations, and work with the rest of the team to analyze flight test data. The test engineer will also work on assisting the team to improve the fidelity of the Baby Airship as a sub-scale model of Pathfinder 1.
Responsibilities
Flight Test Operations: Prepare for, execute, and troubleshoot weekly flight test operations of our sub-scale airship model
HIL Simulation: Conduct and troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) lab testing to validate flight software and hardware integrations
Flight Data & Analytics: Analyze flight logs and test data to feed performance insights back into the GNC and sub-scale simulation models
Mechanical: Design and iteration of lightweight structural components for the Baby Airship
Software: Development of flight control logic, telemetry processing, or embedded systems (C++/Python)
- GNC: Work alongside GNC engineers to author flight test plans and analyze vehicle dynamics
- Qualifications
- Experience: 3+ years in aerospace, robotics, or high-reliability hardware environments
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Coding Skills: Proficiency in Python or C++ programming
Flight Software & Protocols: Hands-on experience with PX4 Flight Control Software and CAN communication protocols
Hardware Aptitude: Working knowledge of DC motors and ESC hardware
Design Tools: Familiarity with standard CAD software
- Mindset: Proven ability to thrive in a rapid "build-test-fail-fix" iteration cycle with strong cross-functional communication skills
- Preferred Qualifications
- Experience piloting drones/UAVs or working with flight testing operations
Hands-on experience troubleshooting low-level electrical hardware issues
- Familiarity with MATLAB and Simulink for system modeling
- What We Offer!
- Relocation assistance
Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
Parental leave
Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
401(k) matching up to 6%
Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
Monthly wellness stipend
Monthly cell phone stipend
Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
- An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields
- Physical / Compliance Requirements
- Criminal background check clearance
Drug test clearance wherever applicable
