UAV Test Pilot and Flight Engineer

Dufour Aerospace is pioneering the future of sustainable aviation with innovative tilt-wing aircraft that combine the versatility of a helicopter with the efficiency of an airplane. To support the development and certification of our next-generation UAVs, we are looking for an experienced Flight Test Pilot (UAV). In this role, you will play a key part in safely operating experimental aircraft, validating performance, and shaping operational procedures that ensure safety, reliability, and compliance. This position offers the opportunity to work hands-on with cutting-edge technology in close collaboration with engineering, safety, and operations teams.

Tasks

• Safely conducting prototype and experimental UAV flights in line with approved PDRA or SORA requirements.
• Performing flights beyond the operational envelope in accordance with test plans and risk assessments.
• Executing precise test maneuvers, gathering flight data, and reporting findings to engineering and safety teams.
• Preparing and executing test cards, risk & safety assessments for non-standard operations as well as conducting adequate risk mitigations before flight.
• Exercising full authority over the aircraft during test flights, including the ability to reject or stop a flight if safety cannot be assured.
• Understanding and analysing in-flight data to ensure safe flight operations and determine safety margins and knock-it-off criteria.
• Collaborating with engineering teams to define test objectives, flight conditions, and performance expectations as well as providing feedback.
• Owning responsibility for the preparation and continuing airworthiness of aircraft including coordination with maintenance and engineering teams.
• Supporting the continuous development of flight test procedures and safety practices.

Requirements

• Extensive RC/UAV flight experience, including experimental or test flying.
• Strong knowledge of flight test principles, risk management, and UAV regulations (EASA/FAA or equivalent).
• Experience conducting flights outside the AFM or operational envelope.
• Background in engineering (aeronautical, mechanical, systems etc.) or equivalent
• Ability to work collaboratively with engineering, safety, and test management teams.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and reporting skills.
• Strong situational awareness and the ability to make critical safety decisions in dynamic conditions.
• allowed to work in Switzerland (EU/EFTA)
• Willingness to travel.

Benefits

We offer flexible working hours. We also provide our employees with tea, coffee and snacks. From time to time we organise free community lunches.

• The workplace is located at Dübendorf Airport
• Starting date: 1st of February 2026