MQ-9 Pilot - Albers Aerospace
Albers Aerospace, a company founded on the principles of Integrity, Commitment, and Excellence, seeks a highly skilled and experienced MQ-9 Pilot to contribute to USMC aviation operations based in Yuma, Arizona. This full-time, flexible position offers a unique 90-days-on/90-days-off schedule, with on-site apartment accommodations provided during active duty periods. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of MQ-9 aircraft.
Responsibilities:
- Serve as Pilot in Command (PIC) for MQ-9 aircraft, prioritizing safe operation at all times.
- Participate comprehensively in all phases of flight, from meticulous planning and briefing to execution, debriefing, and effective crew resource management.
- Maintain strict adherence to military, civilian, and ICAO flight regulations, including full compliance with FAA standards.
- Provide expert guidance in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operation, developing pertinent training and briefing materials to enhance operational efficiency.
- Demonstrate proficiency in planning and executing diverse system maintenance procedures across analog, digital, microwave, optical, and mechanical systems.
- Leverage technical expertise to facilitate the safe and efficient integration of UAS into the National Airspace System (NAS).
- Collaborate effectively with US Government organizations and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
- Contribute technical knowledge and experience to support seamless UAS integration into the NAS, ensuring no compromise to existing capacity, safety, or risk to airspace users or ground personnel and property.
Qualifications:
Minimum Requirements:
- Qualified MQ-9 Pilot (or previously qualified with Form 8 within the last 3 years).
- Minimum 200 hours as MQ-9 Pilot-in-Command (PIC).
- Current FAA Class II Medical Certificate or DoD equivalent.
- Ability to travel for CONUS/OCONUS deployments.
- Valid US passport (or ability to obtain one).
- Ability to maintain a DoD Top Secret Security Clearance.
- Prior DoD pilot training (e.g., USAF Undergraduate Pilot Training, or equivalent fixed-wing training from USA, USN, USMC, or USCG).
- Bachelor's Degree (may be substituted with equivalent experience).
Alternatively:
- Completion of Initial Formal Training Upgrade (IFTU) for MQ-9 via the 18X pipeline; or possession of an FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Airplane Category Rating and Instrument-Airplane Rating.
- For non-military pilots, submission of documentation for: 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 qualified in MQ-9 Launch and Recovery (LR), provide documentation of: Complex Airplane Endorsement, High Performance Endorsement, and the final page of civilian logbook demonstrating flight hours.
Preferred Qualifications:
- MQ-9 Instructor/Evaluator Pilot experience.
- 500+ MQ-9 flight hours.
- Last flight within the past 180 days.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift and carry 40 pounds without assistance.
Compensation and Benefits:
Albers Aerospace offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a matching 401(k) plan; PTO; paid holidays; employer-paid term life, AD&D, and long- and short-term disability insurance; and educational and certification reimbursement.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Albers Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. The company adheres to all relevant pay transparency regulations.
Salary:
$85.00 per hour.
Work Location:
Yuma, Arizona (In-person).