Flight Systems Test EngineerOn site in Aberdeen, NCOur client is expanding a high impact engineering team focused on advanced unmanned aircraft and mission driven system development. They are seeking a Flight Systems Test Engineer who wants broad ownership, real technical influence, and the chance to help move products from concept through field validation. This is a hands-on role for an engineer who enjoys solving practical problems, working close to hardware, and helping shape how complex airborne systems are tested, refined, and prepared for operational use.This Role OffersCompetitive base compensation, with flexibility for exceptional candidatesEquity participation as part of a compelling total rewards packageCompany paid medical, dental, and vision coverage401(k) matchGenerous paid time off and holidaysA chance to join a small, growing engineering team where your work directly influences product direction and readinessAn opportunity to contribute in a mission focused environment centered on advanced autonomous platformsFocusLead planning and execution activities for flight and system level testing of unmanned aircraft and related subsystemsTranslate engineering and program objectives into practical test plans, evaluation methods, and clear acceptance criteriaSupport readiness reviews, safety planning, mission briefings, and disciplined decision making throughout test operationsCoordinate aircraft, support equipment, data collection needs, personnel, and site logistics for efficient onsite executionWork closely with software, hardware, and systems teammates to investigate issues, verify improvements, and advance platform maturityReview engineering data, flight records, and post event results to identify trends, root causes, and recommended next stepsHelp strengthen repeatable test methods, operational documentation, and safe working practices as the team growsContribute directly to hands on troubleshooting, system modification, build support, and field level problem solving when neededSkill Set3 or more years of experience in flight test, systems test, aircraft development, robotics, or similar engineering environmentsRemote Pilot certification or comparable familiarity with compliant unmanned flight operationsPractical experience with unmanned aircraft, autonomy, robotics, or other complex electromechanical systemsWorking knowledge of modern flight control environments, telemetry workflows, and engineering data review toolsAbility to diagnose issues across hardware, software, controls, and system integration boundariesComfort operating in a fast-moving setting where engineers may shift between build, test, analysis, and field troubleshootingExperience interpreting logs, telemetry, or performance data to support technical decisionsWorking proficiency with Python, C++, or similar tools used for debugging, automation, or analysis supportStrong communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to remain effective in operational settingsBachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, robotics, or related engineering discipline is preferred, though equivalent practical experience may also be consideredHelpful BackgroundExperience with fixed wing, vertical takeoff and landing, or hybrid aircraftExperience validating performance across progressively more demanding test conditionsBackground in defense, national security, military aviation, or other mission focused environmentsPersonal or professional experience building, modifying, or tuning custom unmanned systemsAbility to pass background screening and work in a defense aligned settingWhy Candidates Are InterestedThis opportunity offers the kind of ownership that many engineers want but do not often get.
The team is small enough for individual contributions to matter, and the role reaches across testing, integration, troubleshooting, and continuous product improvement.About Blue Signal:Blue Signal is an award-winning, executive search firm specializing in various specialties. Our recruiters have a proven track record of placing top-tier talent across industry verticals, with deep expertise in numerous professional services.