Fixed-Wing Test Pilot H/F About Alta AresAlta Ares is a deeptech startup founded in 2024, building real-time AI for defense operations (ISR, C-UAS). Our primary clients are NATO-aligned militaries, with regular deployments during live exercises. Raised €2M pre-seed in May 2025 Products include:Real-time AI ISR module deployable on drones and tactical platformsCounter-UAS solution enabling autonomous drone takeover under GNSS-denied environmentFull-stack MLOps platform for training & deploying military-grade AI modelsData fusion and trajectory predictionPosition detailsLocation: France (a plus if it is in Paris region) with frequent field deployments (± 1 demo every two weeks)Sector: Defense, Unmanned Aerial SystemsContract: Part-time / freelance engagement, with availability required during our product demonstrations Role & MissionAs a Fixed-Wing Test Pilot, you will operate Alta Ares' fixed-wing drones during development and demos. You will act as the Safety Pilot during experimental flights, ensuring mission success and platform integrity. Over time, you will also contribute to training, documentation, and continuous improvement of operational procedures.Flight OperationsOperate fixed-wing UAVs during development tests and demosExecute manual piloting tasks, including executing non-standard or complex takeoff and landing procedures.Serve as Safety Pilot during avionics hardware and software testing, closely monitoring aircraft behavior and taking manual control when required.Work with the flight-controller team to provide detailed feedback on anomalies or unexpected behavior.Validate aircraft airworthiness and pre-flight checks.Aircraft MaintenancePrepare, organize, and maintain flight-test and demo equipment.Routine maintenance of the UAVRepairs and hardware adjustmentsCandidate ProfilProven experience flying fixed-wing UAVs (required).Experience flying multirotor drones (preferred).Strong understanding of aerodynamics, CG balancing, and basic aircraft mechanics.Ability to troubleshoot propulsion systems, particularly turbines.Familiarity with flight-control systems, tuning, and parameter testing.Hands-on skills in maintenance and repair of UAV platforms.Strong safety mindset and ability to operate under test-flight conditions. About Alta AresAlta Ares is a deeptech startup founded in 2024, building real-time AI for defense operations (ISR, C-UAS). Our primary clients are NATO-aligned militaries, with regular deployments during live exercises. Raised €2M pre-seed in May 2025 Products include:Real-time AI ISR module deployable on drones and tactical platformsCounter-UAS solution enabling autonomous drone takeover under GNSS-denied environmentFull-stack MLOps platform for training & deploying military-grade AI modelsData fusion and trajectory predictionPosition detailsLocation: France (a plus if it is in Paris region) with frequent field deployments (± 1 demo every two weeks)Sector: Defense, Unmanned Aerial SystemsContract: Part-time / freelance engagement, with availability required during our product demonstrations Role & MissionAs a Fixed-Wing Test Pilot, you will operate Alta Ares' fixed-wing drones during development and demos. You will act as the Safety Pilot during experimental flights, ensuring mission success and platform integrity. Over time, you will also contribute to training, documentation, and continuous improvement of operational procedures.Flight OperationsOperate fixed-wing UAVs during development tests and demosExecute manual piloting tasks, including executing non-standard or complex takeoff and landing procedures.Serve as Safety Pilot during avionics hardware and software testing, closely monitoring aircraft behavior and taking manual control when required.Work with the flight-controller team to provide detailed feedback on anomalies or unexpected behavior.Validate aircraft airworthiness and pre-flight checks.Aircraft MaintenancePrepare, organize, and maintain flight-test and demo equipment.Routine maintenance of the UAVRepairs and hardware adjustments Candidate ProfilProven experience flying fixed-wing UAVs (required).Experience flying multirotor drones (preferred).Strong understanding of aerodynamics, CG balancing, and basic aircraft mechanics.Ability to troubleshoot propulsion systems, particularly turbines.Familiarity with flight-control systems, tuning, and parameter testing.Hands-on skills in maintenance and repair of UAV platforms.Strong safety mindset and ability to operate under test-flight conditions.