UAV Pilot and Instructor - Flex-Deployable Role
General Atomics Systems Integration, LLC (GA-SI), an affiliate of General Atomics, seeks a highly skilled and experienced individual to fill a hybrid role as both a UAV Pilot and Instructor within our Aero Services Team. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of unmanned aerial vehicle technology while simultaneously mentoring and developing the next generation of UAV pilots.
As a UAV Pilot and Instructor, you will:
- Lead and participate in ground and flight operations, encompassing mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management, and safety protocols.
- Serve as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of assigned Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs), ensuring safe and efficient operation.
- Deliver academic and in-flight instruction to aspiring UAV pilots, fostering their knowledge and skills.
- Function as a company flight examiner and subject matter expert, upholding the highest standards of operational proficiency.
- Collaborate directly with engineering teams in the continuous development of the Predator aircraft.
- Represent the organization as a technical authority during contractual engagements and projects.
Specific Responsibilities:
- Oversee and actively participate in ground and flight operations, including mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management, and safety.
- Remotely pilot UAVs to assess compliance with specifications and operational suitability during engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support.
- Define, plan, organize, and execute complex flight programs and flight test events.
- Ensure adherence to service guidance, company policies, procedures, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
- Develop and verify procedures for new aircraft features, contributing to the advancement of UAV technology.
- Develop operational and safety procedures and training syllabus courseware, ensuring a high standard of pilot education.
- Conduct demonstrations and participate in operational and experimental ground and flight tests of assigned UAVs.
- Represent the organization with senior military and commercial customers, fostering strong partnerships.
- Instruct UAV student pilots and instructor pilots-in-training in ground and flight operations.
- Evaluate UAV pilots to maintain standardization of company procedures and practices.
- Uphold all applicable laws, regulations, and obligations during business operations.
- Prioritize workplace safety and adhere to established operating procedures and practices.
- Perform other duties as assigned or required.
Qualifications:
- A four-year technical degree or equivalent trade school certification coupled with seven or more years of experience in UAV operation or aviation. Equivalent professional or military experience may be substituted for educational requirements.
- Demonstrated comprehensive understanding of UAV and FAA principles, theories, and concepts.
- Possession of a FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with a current instrument rating and the ability to maintain instrument currency. Alternatively, possess DOD specialized remotely piloted aircraft system training/qualification documented on USAF Form 8 or equivalent.
- Hold a Pilot-in-Command (PIC) qualification with UAV Pilot Evaluator certification.
- Minimum 500 hours as PIC with UAV instructor or multiple UAV aircraft qualification preferred. 1,200 UAV hours desired.
- Possess multiple aircraft UAV Pilot Evaluator qualification.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally on CONUS and OCONUS deployments.
- Exceptional analytical, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to effectively interact with various stakeholders, including senior management, senior military and civilian customers, contractors, and aircrew.
- Extensive knowledge of computer operations and applications.
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Flexibility to work extended hours and travel as required.
Compensation:
The salary range for this position is $126,510 - $194,925.
Additional Information:
- This position requires 50-75% travel.
- Relocation assistance is not provided.
- US Citizenship is required.
- A Secret security clearance is mandatory.
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage qualified individuals from all backgrounds to apply.