FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot Needed – DARPA LIFT Challenge (Dayton, OH)

Compensation: Approximately $750/day + travel expenses stipend
Location: Wright-Patterson Air Force Base – Dayton, Ohio (local pilots preferred)
Project Duration: 2–3 days (including two 90-minute flight windows)
Project Dates: August (exact dates to be confirmed)APPLICATION DEADLINE: JULY 3RD

About the Opportunity

Client is seeking an experienced FAA Part 107 licensed drone pilot to support flight testing for an innovative aircraft participating in the DARPA LIFT Challenge.This is a rare opportunity to work with a groundbreaking prototype—a patented fixed-wing VTOL aircraft featuring a unique integrated engine design. The aircraft is currently in the final stages of development and preparing for its initial flight testing.

Pilot Requirements

• Active FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• Experience operating unmanned aircraft safely in test environments
• Strong understanding of flight planning, risk assessment, and safety procedures
• Ability to obtain security access to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base
• Available for two scheduled 90-minute flight windows during August (dates TBD)

Highly Preferred Experience

• Fixed-wing VTOL aircraft
• Experimental or prototype aircraft
• Flight testing and research & development programs
• Complex or unconventional UAV platforms

Compensation

• Approximately $750 per day
• Travel expenses covered for qualified non-local candidates
• Estimated commitment of 2–3 days

Important Timeline

Pilot submissions must be received by next Friday to allow sufficient time for security vetting and base access badging at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Preferred Location

Pilots located in or near Dayton, Ohio are strongly preferred to minimize travel, although experienced candidates from other locations are encouraged to apply.If you're an experienced Part 107 pilot with a passion for cutting-edge aerospace technology and experimental aircraft, we'd love to hear from you.