Ground Test Operator (Contract-to-Hire)

About You and The Role 

Ground Test Operators support the flight testing and operational validation of autonomous delivery aircraft in a high-tempo test environment. In this role, you will execute test procedures, prepare delivery packages, operate ground infrastructure, and coordinate closely with engineering, flight operations, and maintenance teams to ensure safe and reliable testing.

Ground Test Operators also support installation and servicing of Zipping Point Autokiosk systems, aircraft ground handling, and incident response operations. This role may include deployments to mobile or remote test sites to support field testing and large-scale operational campaigns.

This role would start as a Contract role with opportunity to convert into a full-time position.

What You'll Do  

This role supports the execution and validation of operational testing for Zipline systems by preparing, labeling, and processing test packages for partner operational validation and loading them through automated kiosks and Zipping Point infrastructure. The position also involves safely moving Zip aircraft around the test site between docks, operational areas, and maintenance facilities, as well as installing, inspecting, and maintaining Zipping Point Autokiosk systems to ensure consistent operational readiness.

Team members in this role contribute to large-scale flight test campaigns that enable high-volume operational validation. They may support flight operations in capacities such as Visual Observer, Zipping Point Operator, or Technician, playing a critical role in ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable testing activities. The role may also require deployment to mobile platforms, including Ziplines mobile Test Site and other satellite test locations, to support distributed operational testing.

Additionally, this position is responsible for responding to operational incidents, including the recovery of aircraft or field equipment and assisting with safety containment procedures when required. Team members are expected to identify and document operational issues, collaborate with engineering teams to support troubleshooting efforts, and contribute to the continuous improvement of procedures, testing workflows, and operational documentation.

Qualifications

Required

• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow operational procedures in a safety-critical environment
• Ability to work outdoors
• Ability to work any shift and any day of the week to support continuous flight test operations
  

Preferred

• Experience in aviation, UAV operations, or flight test environments
• Familiarity with autonomous systems or robotics platforms
• Experience operating industrial or heavy equipment such as forklifts, lifts, or other machinery
• Experience troubleshooting mechanical or operational systems

Work Environment

• Work is performed in an active flight test environment, both indoors and outdoors
• Role requires walking across large test areas and working around aircraft and ground equipment
• Ability to lift and move packages or operational equipment as part of daily work
• Work may involve operating or working around industrial equipment and heavy machinery
• Work may occur in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain, depending on testing requirements
• Travel to commercial sites & remote test sites may be required up to 30% of the time 

What Else You Need to Know   

Zipline is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion or religious creed, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, military or veteran status, citizenship, or other characteristics protected by state, federal or local law or our other policies.

We value diversity at Zipline and welcome applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. If you like the sound of this position but are not sure if you are the perfect fit, please apply!

Compensation: $22 - $26 / hour