UAV Test Pilot

Help us get our autonomous systems airborne and pushed to their limits. Turn advanced designs into robust, field-proven, real-world solutions. Early team, deep tech, high impact.

About SE3

SE3 Labs is building Spatial AI by combining 3D computer vision with large language models (LLMs). We believe the ability to reason about and act within physical space is foundational to unlocking the next generation of automation, from construction to smart infrastructure, and ultimately, defense.

Now, we’re building the physical platform to bring Spatial AI to life. That means high-performance, real-world robotic systems (starting with UAVs) and we’re looking for a hands-on operator who’s ready to fly, perfect and demonstrate these machines with us.

About the Role

As our UAV Test Pilot, you’ll be the central operator flying our entire fleet of autonomous drones. Working as part of our development team, you will be the first to operate new drone and payload prototypes and evaluate them in demanding real-world conditions. Your contribution will determine how well we understand our technology and define the path of our future development.

What You’ll Work On

• Prepare & Launch: Integrate and tune new airframes and payloads with the team and bring systems to flight readiness

• Fly & Evaluate: Run structured tests across quadcopters, up to three-meter wingspan fixed-wings, and eVTOL platforms

• Stress the System: Execute realistic field scenarios and identify performance limits, failure modes, and reliability issues

• Improve the Product: Spot bugs and design flaws, and work with engineers to improve performance and robustness

• Demonstrate & Train: Demonstrate our systems to partners and end users on our test-base and in the field across Europe.

Your Profile

• You’ve completed a technical apprenticeship or training in a relevant technical field

• You have substantial hands-on experience assembling, tuning, repairing, and flying drones, whether professionally, in military service, or through serious FPV / builder / enthusiast projects.

• You are intimate with Q Ground Control, Ardupilot or PX4

• You bring a diligent and structured approach to flying

• You are comfortable travelling, working outdoors in all weather, and operating in the field

• You’re skilled in soldering wires and troubleshooting drones

• You deliver precision and a systematic approach to communication and problem-solving

• You are proactive, willing to improvise and have a strong sense of ownership

• Conversational English is a must; German is a strong plus

• Driving license class B, BE is a plus

Especially Valued Bonus Skills

• Completed military training and/or understanding of army processes

• Regulatory experience (EASA SORA or similar frameworks)

• Hands-on repair or tinkering on electronics, radio equipment etc.

• Experience running environmental tests like vibration, EMI or thermal, ideally MIL-Spec

• Familiarity with CAD and 3D printing

Perks & Benefits

• Make your passion your job: If you love drones, you will relish this role

• AI-boosted workplace: We empower every employee with best-in-class AI tools and agents, giving you unlimited access to the latest advancements and a true productivity edge

• Real Ownership: Get early, real stock to participate directly in SE3’s growth

• 31 Paid Days Off: 30 vacation days plus your birthday off

• Well-being Access: Free membership to gyms, yoga, and wellness through EGYM Wellpass

• Team Offsites: We go on 2 company retreats per year, our last ones were in Italy, Greece and Spain

• Mentorship: Work closely with experienced engineers and get paired with a professional mentor to support your growth

Our Process

1. Intro Call (20 min): Let’s get to know each other (conducted by Michael, our Chief of Staff)

2. Technical Interview (45 min): A deeper dive into your goals, problem-solving approach and technical understanding (with Francisco, our Founding Drone Engineer)

3. Onsite Trial/Case (2 hrs): We’ll troubleshoot and fly something together, just like on the job (together with our Hardware Team)

4. Team Dinner/Lunch: See if it’s a culture fit on both sides (can be integrated into the Onsite to accommodate long journeys)