UAV Instructor/Operator Pilot
Company Overview
General Atomics Systems Integration, LLC (GA-SI), an esteemed affiliate of General Atomics, stands as a premier provider of advanced military and commercial engineering services. Renowned for its leading-edge expertise in systems integration technologies, reliability enhancements, and sophisticated control system design, GA-SI is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced UAV Instructor/Operator Pilot to join its Aero Services division. This critical role is based in Dugway, UT.
Position Summary
The UAV Instructor/Operator Pilot will play a pivotal role in supporting General Atomics PBL US Army field operations, focusing on comprehensive aircrew training, rigorous evaluations, and dedicated support for sustained flight operations for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a primary Instructor Operator for General Atomics PBL US Army field support, providing comprehensive aircrew training, rigorous evaluations, and dedicated support for sustained flight operations to customer organizational units.
- Coordinate and actively engage in all facets of ground and flight operations, encompassing meticulous mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, effective aircrew resource management, and stringent safety protocols.
- Execute remote piloting of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to meticulously assess compliance with specifications and ascertain operational suitability during critical flight test and demonstration support, utilizing specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers.
- Ensure unwavering adherence to all service guidance, company policies, operational procedures, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
- Contribute to the development and verification of procedures for novel aircraft features, and actively participate in the creation of operational and safety procedures, alongside comprehensive training syllabus courseware.
- Maintain strict compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and corporate obligations, consistently upholding the highest standards of safety in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
- Undertake additional duties and responsibilities as required to support operational objectives.
Required Qualifications
- Education and Experience: A four-year technical degree or trade school equivalency is typically required, complemented by a minimum of nine (9) years of demonstrable experience in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operations or broader aviation. Equivalent professional or military experience in UAVs or aviation may be considered in lieu of formal education.
- Operational Knowledge: Comprehensive familiarity with Army forms, records, and publications, along with Contractor Flight and Ground Operations procedures and records (DCMA 8210).
- Technical Acumen: Extensive understanding of UAV principles, theories, concepts, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
- Specific Certification: Must be a graduate of the DA or DES Instructor Operator (IO) Course, specifically for the MQ-1C Gray Eagle platform.
- Flight Experience: A minimum of one thousand (1000) hours of flight time in an Operator Station Ground Control System (OSGCS) or Unmanned Ground Control System (UGCS), including at least four hundred (400) hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
- Additional Certification: Possession of a Test and Evaluation (T&E) qualification.
- Communication Skills: Exceptional analytical, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills are essential for effective interaction with all levels of employees, military and civilian customers, contractors, and aircrew.
- Technical Proficiency: Detailed knowledge of computer operations and various applications.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to successfully maintain an FAA Class II flight physical.
- Work Ethic: Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Willingness to work extended hours and undertake travel as required.
Employment Details
- Salary Range: $95,700 – $146,130
- Travel Requirement: 0% – 25%
- Relocation Assistance: Not Provided
- US Citizenship: Required
- Security Clearance: Required (Senior level, 8+ years)
- Workstyle: Onsite
Equal Opportunity Employer
General Atomics is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, the company considers all qualified applicants for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. U.S. Citizenship is a requirement for this specific position.