UAS Operations Test Engineer

Leidos Holding$92K — $166K *
Aerospace & Defense
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS in a related field with 8-12 years of UAS operations experience, or a High School diploma with 20 years of applicable experience.
  • Hands-on experience with multiple UAS platforms for Air and Payload Operations.
  • Working knowledge of UAS components and DCMA 8210-1D processes.
  • Ability to obtain Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or possess a private pilot's license.
  • Strong communication skills for technical documentation and briefings.
  • US citizenship and the ability to maintain a Secret clearance.
  • Residency in Huntsville, AL or willingness to relocate.

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with teams to create test plans and procedures.
  • Conduct lab, field, and flight testing including setup and data collection.
  • Perform post-test analysis and troubleshooting of systems.
  • Utilize standard flight control systems for analysis.
  • Contribute to detailed technical reports and documentation.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement plans.
  • Opportunities for professional development and training.
  • Supportive team environment focused on innovation and collaboration.
Full Job Description
Leidos' Defense Sensors RF Systems UAS Portfolio is seeking a UAS Operations Test Engineer to join our team supporting a team of engineers to support the integration and test of Tactical Uncrewed Aviation Systems. The ideal candidate is a hands-on test engineer with a strong background in UAS operations, capable of working independently in both lab and field environments. You'll be responsible for testing emerging UAS ground control and flight systems, and collaborating closely with government stakeholders to ensure reliable, mission-ready solutions.

Primary Responsibilities.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop test plans, procedures, and detailed technical reports.
  • Conduct lab, field, and flight testing, including test setup, data collection, and post-test analysis.
  • Analyze and troubleshoot system behavior using standard flight control and test systems to include protocol analyzers and flight replay utilities.


Basic Qualifications.
  • BS in a related field from an accredited institution with 8-12 years of applicable UAS operations experience. In lieu of a degree, a High School diploma with (20) years of applicable flight operations is acceptable
  • Hands-on experience with various UAS platforms, performing both Air and Payload Operations.
  • Working knowledge of Unmanned Aviation System components.
  • Working knowledge of DCMA 8210-1D processes.
  • Possession or ability to possess Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or a private pilot's license).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop detailed technical reports and briefings.
  • Must be a US citizen, possess and maintain a Secret clearance.
  • Must be a resident of Huntsville, AL or willing to relocate to the Huntsville, AL area.


Preferred Qualifications.
  • UAS operational experience.
  • Experience with testing DoD UAS'.
  • Knowledge of UAS command and control protocols.
  • Knowledge of UAS ISR payload platforms.


Original Posting:
August 25, 2026

Pay Range:
Pay Range $92,300.00 - $166,850.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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