About the Team

DoorDash Labs is an independent team within DoorDash. We explore robotics and automation to transform last-mile logistics in the long term. If you have a passion for applying autonomous aviation technologies in a service used by millions of people, then we want to talk to you!

About the Role

As the Flight Operations Lead, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of drone flight operations, ensuring compliance with FAA Part 135 regulations and internal safety standards. You will develop and implement operational procedures, lead a team of flight operators, and work cross-functionally to scale drone delivery operations.

Key Responsibilities Regulatory Compliance & Certification: Ensure all flight operations comply with FAA Part 135 regulations and maintain certification requirements. Act as a key liaison with the FAA, ensuring adherence to evolving regulatory frameworks and facilitating inspections or audits. Oversee pilot training, certification, and operational readiness in line with Part 135 requirements. Flight Operations Management: Lead and manage a team of drone operators, ensuring safe, efficient, and scalable flight operations. Oversee scheduling, resource allocation, and mission planning to optimize fleet performance. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) to enhance operational safety and efficiency. Implement robust safety management systems (SMS), ensuring risk mitigation and incident response protocols. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Scaling: Work closely with hardware, software, product, and business operations teams to integrate drone technology into real-world logistics. Contribute to system development and testing, ensuring operational readiness for full-scale deployments. Drive continuous process improvements and automation strategies for flight operations. Why You’ll Love This Role Be at the forefront of autonomous aviation and shape the future of last-mile drone delivery. Lead a high-impact team in a fast-paced, innovative environment. Develop scalable workflows that ensure compliance, safety, and efficiency as operations expand. What We’re Looking For FAA Part 135 operational experience, including leadership in a commercial aviation or UAS environment. Part 107 certification and extensive UAS flight experience (1,000+ logged flight hours preferred). Proven ability to develop and enforce SOPs for aviation operations. Strong understanding of FAA regulations, airspace management, and compliance frameworks. Experience leading teams, managing pilots, and scaling flight operations. Background in risk assessment, safety management systems (SMS), and emergency response planning. Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally. Bonus Qualifications Experience with commercial drone delivery operations or UAS integration into logistics networks. Prior involvement in obtaining and maintaining FAA Part 135 certification for UAS operations. Strong technical understanding of autonomous flight systems and aviation software.

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