MQ-9 Pilot
Albers Aerospace LLC, a professional services firm specializing in systems engineering, program management, logistics, production support, aircraft maintenance, and aviation/aerospace services, seeks a highly qualified MQ-9 Pilot. As a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), Albers Aerospace provides cutting-edge solutions and support to the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and commercial clients. Founded in 2015, the company prides itself on attracting top talent and possessing expert knowledge in weapons systems acquisition, maintenance/modernization, and sustainment programs, with deep expertise in defense and aircraft systems.
Job Summary:
Albers Aerospace is actively seeking a skilled MQ-9 Pilot, qualified in either Launch and Recovery (LRE) or Mission Control Element (MCE), to support U.S. Marine Corps aviation operations. This position is located in Yuma, Arizona, and features a unique 90-days-on / 90-days-off rotational schedule, eliminating the need for permanent residency in Yuma and including provided accommodation while on site.
Key Responsibilities:
- Serves as Pilot in Command (PIC) of MQ-9 aircraft, ensuring safe and effective flight operations.
- Engages in all phases of flight, including meticulous planning, detailed briefing, precise execution, comprehensive debriefing, and effective crew resource management.
- Ensures strict adherence to military, civilian, and ICAO flight rules, including full compliance with FAA regulations.
- Provides expert knowledge and operational experience regarding unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
- Develops high-quality briefing and training materials to enhance flight operations.
- Plans and executes a wide range of assessments on analog, digital, microwave, optical, and mechanical systems and equipment under various conditions.
- Utilizes technical knowledge and experience in UAS operations to facilitate their safe and efficient integration into the National Airspace System (NAS).
- Collaborates effectively with U.S. Government organizations and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
- Applies technical expertise to support UAS integration into the NAS without negatively impacting existing capacity, safety levels, current operators, or increasing risk to airspace users or persons/property on the ground compared to other new technologies.
Required Qualifications:
- Must be a qualified MQ-9 Pilot or have been qualified within the last three years (Form 8).
- Possesses a minimum of 200 hours as MQ-9 Pilot-in-Command (PIC).
- Holds a current FAA Class II Medical Certificate or equivalent DoD medical certification.
- Demonstrates the ability to travel for CONUS/OCONUS deployments.
- Possesses or is able to obtain a U.S. passport.
- Must maintain a DoD Security Clearance (TOP SECRET required).
- Holds prior DoD pilot training (e.g., USAF Undergraduate Pilot Training, or equivalent fixed-wing training from USA, USN, USMC, or USCG).
- Holds a Bachelor's Degree (experience may be substituted).
- Alternatively, possesses Initial Formal Training Upgrade (IFTU) training in the MQ-9 via the 18X pipeline OR holds an FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with an Airplane Category Rating and Instrument-Airplane Rating.
- For non-military pilots, must provide copies of Commercial Pilot Certificate with an Airplane Category Rating and Instrument-Airplane Rating, or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with an Airplane Category Rating.
- If not previously MQ-9 LRE qualified, must provide documentation of Complex Airplane Endorsement and High Performance Endorsement, and the last page of a civilian logbook showing flight hours.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience as an MQ-9 Instructor or Evaluator Pilot.
- Over 500 total MQ-9 flight hours.
- Last flight conducted within the past 180 days.
Physical Requirements:
- Capable of lifting 40 pounds and carrying it without assistance.
Compensation and Benefits:
This is a full-time position with an expected work week of 40 hours when on duty. The starting pay rate is $85.00 per hour. Albers Aerospace values its employees and offers a robust benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with company match, paid time off (10 days in the first year, 15 thereafter), 11 company holidays, employer-paid term life, AD&D, long and short-term disability insurance, and education/certification reimbursement.
Location: Yuma, Arizona (On-site during rotation)
Work Arrangement: Full-Time/Flexible (90 days on / 90 days off rotation)
Security Clearance: TOP SECRET Required