---
title: 'Crew Chief - Flight Test at Zone 5 Technologies'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/crew-chief-flight-test-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-r4hk5k2ab1tg'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-10-27'
---

# Crew Chief - Flight Test at Zone 5 Technologies

- **Company:** Zone 5 Technologies
- **Location:** San Luis Obispo, CA
- **Compensation:** $80k–$115k
- **Posted:** 2026-10-22
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-10-27
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies/jobs/5461404008

## Job description

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

We are seeking an experienced Crew Chief to provide maintenance support for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and other related DoD based projects. Zone 5 maintains a weekly flight test cadence at test ranges local to the San Luis Obispo, CA area. In addition, there will be occasional flight test demonstration events at both CONUS and OCONUS locations that will require travel to support. Flight maintenance requires significant time spent outdoors in various weather conditions.

## Key Responsibility

- Aircraft Servicing Perform routine pre-flight and post-flight inspections, fueling, Flight Control Rigging, and servicing tasks to ensure aircraft are safe and mission-ready.
- Packout Support Prepare and transport test equipment, spares, and tools required for flight test operations, both on-site and at remote locations.
- Vehicle Maintenance Conduct basic maintenance and servicing of support vehicles to ensure reliable ground transportation during test activities.
- Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot ground support systems (Aircraft support equipment, towing equipment, etc.) critical to test operations.
- Camera Equipment Setup & Maintenance Install, configure, and maintain airborne and ground-based camera systems used for flight test data capture.
- Weight & Balance Assist with aircraft weight and balance calculations, ensuring proper loading for safe and compliant flight operations.
- Trailer Loading & Weight Distribution Apply proper load distribution practices to trailers during pack out and transport, maintaining safety, balance, and compliance with road regulations.
- Prepare and execute ground and flight test operations for unmanned aircraft systems, including pre-flight and post-flight inspections.
- Support integration of avionics, propulsion, payloads, and autonomy systems onto UAV platforms.
- Operate ground control stations (GCS) and monitor flight telemetry during test missions under engineer or pilot supervision.
- Perform troubleshooting, corrective maintenance, and hardware swaps during rapid test cycles.

## Qualifications

Required:

- Associate’s degree in Aerospace, Avionics, Electrical, or Mechanical Technology, or equivalent hands-on training, or A&P Mechanic’s License
- 3+ years of experience in UAV operations, Military or General Aviation aircraft service, maintenance, or defense flight test environments,
- Knowledge of aircraft subsystems: avionics, flight controls, telemetry, propulsion.
- Familiarity with flight line operations and ground support equipment (GSE).
- Ability to read and interpret basic wiring diagrams, schematics, and test documentation.
- Physically capable of lifting 50 lbs and working in outdoor field test conditions.
- Ability and willingness to travel up to 50%

Preferred:

- Experience supporting DoD UAV platforms or autonomous aircraft.
- Knowledge of data acquisition and telemetry systems.

Pay range for this role $80,000—$115,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits:

- Competitive total compensation package
- Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
- 401k with company-match
- 3 weeks of paid time off each year
- 40 hours of sick time
- 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

- Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
- Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
- Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

## About Zone 5 Technologies

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Zone 5 Technologies develops advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and next-generation munitions for U.S. Department of Defense customers, with a focus on modular, open-architecture designs and rapid prototyping.
- **Entity Type**: Private (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace; prior to acquisition was privately held)
- **Headquarters**: San Luis Obispo, California, United States
- **Founded**: 2011
- **Founders**: Not publicly available

## Core Business
- **Primary Industry**: Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing; Defense Technology
- **Target Customers**: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), and allied military forces (B2G)
- **Mission Statement**: "Create the future" – focused on enabling modularity, collaboration, and rapid deployment of unmanned systems and munitions.

## Products & Services
- **Paladin UAS**: A multi-mission, TAK-integrated unmanned aircraft system that serves as an autonomous wingman. Capabilities include counter-UAS interception, precision munitions drop, and rifle takedowns. Listed on the DIU Blue UAS Refresh list, ensuring NDAA compliance and cybersecurity. (Hardware + Software)
- **White Spike Interceptor**: A modular, open-C2 missile and launcher system available in surface‑ and air‑launched configurations. Designed for counter-UAS and precision strike missions. (Hardware + Software)
- **Air Launched Effects (ALE)**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered effects for affordable mass and precision strike from mobility, bomber, and tactical aircraft. (Hardware + Software)
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Low‑cost containerized missile systems, including the Extended Range Attack Munition. (Hardware)
- **Engineering Services / R&D**: End‑to‑end system development including CONOPS, vehicle design, avionics, embedded hardware/software, ground control stations, and mission planning software.

## Market Standing
- **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not publicly disclosed (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace)
- **Key Metric**: Total headcount of 183 (LinkedIn, 2026‑07), representing +241.1% year‑over‑year growth
- **Notable Investors/Partners**: Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (acquirer); DIU (multiple contract awards); U.S. Air Force
- **Growth Signals**:
  - 241% headcount growth in the last year
  - Selected for multiple DoD/DIU programs: Blue UAS Refresh, Low‑Cost Containerized Missiles, Counter UAS Next, Extended Range Attack Munition, Enterprise Test Vehicle
  - 108 active job postings (260% year‑over‑year increase)
  - 13,284 LinkedIn followers (+62% yearly)

## Competitive Advantages
- **Vertical Integration**: Concept‑to‑production capability – design, manufacturing, testing, and sustainment in‑house.
- **Open Systems / Modularity**: MOSA/WOSA architectures enable rapid adaptation of vehicles, sensors, and weapons.
- **Blue UAS Listing**: Provides an Authority to Operate (ATO) for all DoD operators, a key differentiator for government contracts.
- **Flight‑Proven Hardware**: Paladin and White Spike have undergone extensive flight testing (SIL, HIL, flight tests).
- **Agile Prototyping**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered designs allow for fast iteration and unit‑cost discipline.

## Strategic Focus
- **Expanding DoD & Allied Contracts**: Leveraging recent DIU and Air Force wins to secure production orders for Paladin, White Spike, and missile systems.
- **Scaling Workforce & Capabilities**: Rapid hiring across engineering (GNC, embedded, avionics, flight test) to support increasing program loads.
- **International Expansion**: Acquisition by Kongsberg may open access to NATO and allied markets.
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Emphasis on affordable mass – developing low‑cost missiles for high‑volume procurement.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture & Ratings**: Employer rating 4.2/5 on LinkedIn (based on 8 reviews); Work‑Life 4.0, Compensation 3.6, Culture 3.4, Career 3.8.
- **Growth Opportunity**: 108 open positions across software, hardware, flight test, and manufacturing – strong upward mobility in a rapidly expanding company.
- **Technical Environment**: Tech stack includes Python, MATLAB, C++, CUDA, PyTorch, Docker, Kubernetes, PostgreSQL, React, GitLab, Jenkins, and more – modern engineering tools.
- **Mission‑Driven Work**: Directly contribute to defense technology that is fielded today (Blue UAS, interceptor programs).
- **Location**: San Luis Obispo, CA – a vibrant college town near the Central Coast with outdoor lifestyle.
- **Hybrid/Remote**: Not specifically stated; most roles appear on‑site at one of three U.S. offices (San Luis Obispo, Fort Walton Beach FL, Fort Worth TX).

## Sources
1. [LinkedIn – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.linkedin.com/company/zone-5-technologies)
2. [Company Website – zone5tech.com](https://www.zone5tech.com/)
3. [Greenhouse Careers Page](http://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies)
4. [robotics.press – Company Profile](https://robotics.press/news/zone-5-technologies-company-profile/)
5. [YouTube – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.youtube.com/@Zone5Technologies)

## Other roles at Zone 5 Technologies

- [UAV Aircraft Assembler III](https://feeny.ai/job/uav-aircraft-assembler-iii-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-hpt2ktfb373b) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [UAV Aircraft Assembler IV](https://feeny.ai/job/uav-aircraft-assembler-iv-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-1baww4q9a8qk) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [UAV Aircraft Assembler II](https://feeny.ai/job/uav-aircraft-assembler-ii-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-gkx3t8gdsx86) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [UAV Aircraft Assembler I](https://feeny.ai/job/uav-aircraft-assembler-i-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-pm3fez505xsy) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [UAV Avionics Assembler IV](https://feeny.ai/job/uav-avionics-assembler-iv-zone-5-technologies-paso-robles-t0zmfrxsthbx) — Paso Robles, CA
- [Sr. Systems Reliability Engineer](https://feeny.ai/job/sr-systems-reliability-engineer-zone-5-technologies-united-states-a2p3hdrjt6zt) — United States
- [Executive Assistant](https://feeny.ai/job/executive-assistant-zone-5-technologies-united-states-23h7vem7ykvs) — United States
- [UAV Avionics Assembler IV](https://feeny.ai/job/uav-avionics-assembler-iv-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-740tz5tjgh88) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Senior Proposal Writer](https://feeny.ai/job/senior-proposal-writer-zone-5-technologies-united-states-hg89r3p21808) — United States
- [Manufacturing Engineer I/II - 2nd Shift](https://feeny.ai/job/manufacturing-engineer-i-ii-2nd-shift-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-949b4ms2tcb9) — San Luis Obispo, CA