Aviation Regulatory Program Manager

Skydio · Defense · United States · Remote · Operations

Skydio is seeking an Aviation Regulatory Program Manager to develop and execute regulatory strategy for autonomous drone operations in the U.S. and globally. This role involves submitting regulatory approval requests, acting as a liaison with aviation authorities, and providing regulatory advice to internal teams. The ideal candidate will have experience navigating unmanned aircraft regulatory frameworks and strong communication skills.

What you'd actually do

  1. Develop, submit, and defend aviation regulatory operational approval requests, waivers, exemptions, and declarations that enable safe and scalable drone operations.
  2. Be a trusted resource and guide for our customers and partners pursuing advanced regulatory projects.
  3. Develop and maintain scalable systems to track and oversee the implementation of regulatory projects.
  4. Translate emerging regulations into clear internal guidance and actionable plans.
  5. Serve as a point of contact with civil aviation authorities (FAA and global regulators), representing Skydio in regulatory reviews, audits, and compliance discussions.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in aviation, engineering, public policy, or a related field or equivalent experience.
  • Experience navigating regulatory frameworks for unmanned aircraft operations (U.S. and international is a plus).
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical and regulatory concepts clearly and persuasively to both regulators and internal teams.
  • History of collaborating cross-functionally in fast-paced, high-growth environments.
  • Strong sense of ownership and the ability to operate in a fast-paced environment with competing demands on your time.
  • Obsessive focus on customer success.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to explain complicated topics--such as autonomy--to regulators and partners.

Nice to have

  • Having both manned and unmanned aviation experience is a plus.
  • Passion for aviation, autonomy, and creating solutions that drive real impact.

What the JD emphasized

  • aviation regulatory
  • autonomous drone operations
  • regulatory strategy
  • aviation regulatory operational approval requests
  • FAA and global regulators