Engineer I
The Engineer I role at Confidential Client involves supporting UAV flight test programs by developing and executing flight-hardened instrumentation systems and conducting complex system tests. This hands-on position requires troubleshooting electromechanical and data acquisition systems in real time, collaborating cross-functionally, and supporting test activities at various remote locations across the continental US. The role demands flexibility, strong technical aptitude, and excellent communication skills to ensure successful flight test operations and data analysis.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
This entry-level Engineer I / Test Engineer role will join the Flight Test Instrumentation team to support system-level UAV flight test programs across the product line. You will work hands-on with instrumentation hardware and data acquisition systems, support bench and flight tests, and troubleshoot electromechanical and DAQ systems during testing.
- Aid in developing flight-hardened instrumentation systems tailored to flight test objectives
- Conduct bench tests of instrumentation systems and networks to validate methods and accuracy
- Install measurement sensors and data acquisition systems on aircraft and related test articles
- Troubleshoot instrumentation, sensors, and data systems in real time during test activities
- Develop and maintain test procedures, technical specifications, and test records
- Provide technical support, system health monitoring, and documentation throughout test campaigns
- Perform Modal and Ground Vibration Tests (GVT) of components on and off the aircraft
- Define and document flight and ground test objectives and design appropriate measurement systems
- Collaborate with test engineers, technicians, flight operations, and program management to execute test plans
- Prepare equipment, configurations, and procedures to ensure test readiness
- Report progress, analyze system performance, and document anomalies for engineering teams
- Prioritize tasks and adapt to changing on-site and off-site test schedules and conditions
- Support travel to remote test locations and flexible/extended working hours as required
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline, or equivalent engineering experience
- Enthusiasm for hands-on work with aircraft systems and instrumentation
- Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to learn new concepts and systems quickly
- Ability to develop and document procedures and maintain technical records
- Proficiency analyzing test data and communicating results using Excel and Microsoft Office tools
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Willingness and ability to travel approximately 50% and work extended hours when needed
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance (required)
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Experience with programmable sensors and a variety of data acquisition systems
- Hands-on experience with vibration, temperature, and pressure measurement techniques
- Familiarity with data processing concepts (windowing, filtering, aliasing, Fourier methods)
- Experience with MATLAB, C, or Python for data analysis and scripting
- Experience with 3D modeling and fabrication techniques is a plus
Compensation & Location
- Estimated pay: $104,644 per year (estimated).
- This role supports both on-site and remote aircraft test locations; the position includes frequent travel to remote test sites.
Notes on Work Environment
This position is cross-functional and highly collaborative. Expect a field-forward, hands-on role supporting flight and ground testing across multiple programs. Flexibility, strong organizational skills, and the ability to perform under shifting schedules are essential.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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