Visual Observer - Flight Test Operations Esparto

About You and The Role 

The Flight Test Operations team at Zipline is growing, and we’re looking for individuals with sound judgment, excellent interpersonal skills, and exceptionally high standards.  Success requires a process-minded approach on every flight, safety-oriented attitude, flexibility, and enthusiasm for using cutting-edge technology to deliver goods and lifesaving medical supplies on 3 continents around the world (so far), 7 days a week.

You will monitor assigned airspace and conditions around UAS flights, communicate hazards clearly to the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC), and speak up when a flight condition requires attention, a pause, or escalation. Your judgment directly supports safe, disciplined flight execution.

What You'll Do 

• Attend pre-operational briefings and complete required crew activities before assigned flights.
• Monitor assigned airspace along flight routes before launch and throughout UAS testing, flight, and delivery phases.
• Identify non-cooperative aircraft, hazardous weather, local fire events, and other conditions that could affect flight safety.  Initiate escalation and immediate mitigations per crew procedures and stop operations when required.
• Call out safety concerns, request a pause when conditions warrant, and escalate unresolved hazards through the flight crew.
• Maintain reliable observation, communication, and procedural discipline during assigned flight operations.
• Maintain operational readiness for day, night, and weekend shifts; participate in recurrent training, competency checks, and any required regulatory training.

What You'll Bring

• Sound judgment, close attention to detail, and a process-minded approach to every flight.
• Ability to follow flight procedures, retain situational awareness, and communicate observations accurately under operational conditions.
• Ability to work independently in isolated conditions for extended periods while remaining attentive and communicative.
• Availability for full-time shifts, including days, nights, and overnight shifts.
• Clear interpersonal communication and the confidence to raise safety concerns directly.
• Part 107 certification or prior drone, UAS, or aviation experience is preferred.

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, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws or our own sensibilities.

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!