UAS Operations Test Engineer

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Leidos’ Defense Systems 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.

If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!

Leidos Defense Systems Sector provides a diverse portfolio of systems, solutions, and services covering land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace for customers worldwide. Solutions for Defense include enterprise and mission IT, large-scale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial and data analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is solving the world’s toughest security challenges for customers with “can’t fail” missions. To explore and learn more, click here!

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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 possess and be able to 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.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:

October 19, 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.