Senior Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Pilot
About General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI)
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an esteemed affiliate of General Atomics, is a recognized world leader in the development and manufacture of proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), tactical reconnaissance radars, and advanced high-resolution surveillance systems. GA-ASI’s innovative solutions are at the forefront of aviation technology, providing critical capabilities across diverse operational landscapes globally.
The Opportunity: Senior UAS Test Pilot
GA-ASI seeks a highly qualified and experienced aviation professional for the critical role of Senior Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Pilot. This pivotal position encompasses responsibilities as an Experimental Test Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and Flight Examiner. The successful candidate will leverage profound subject matter expertise across GA-ASI’s advanced family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems, including aircraft hardware and software, ground control station systems, and all aspects of operational and experimental ground and flight testing.
This role is crucial for ensuring the standardization of company aircraft ground and flight operations and procedures, as well as advancing flight test and instructional techniques. The Senior UAS Test Pilot serves as a primary consultant for executive management, offering expert guidance on all areas of the company's product line aircraft development, flight test planning, and operational mission execution. A steadfast commitment to the safe operation of UAVs during all phases of ground and flight activities is paramount.
Key Responsibilities
- Performs as an Experimental Test and Evaluation Pilot, leading and executing complex ground and flight test operations for Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs).
- Serves as an Instructor Test Pilot and company Flight Examiner, responsible for the advanced training and certification of other pilots.
- Acts as Pilot-in-Command for company Unmanned Air Vehicles, upholding the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.
- Develops, executes, and comprehensively debriefs mission plans, briefings, and flight operations.
- Provides expert academic (platform instruction) and in-flight instruction to UAV student pilots and instructor pilots-in-training, covering all facets of UAV ground and flight operations.
- Ensures meticulous compliance with all governing regulations, including service guidance, company procedures, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations.
- Observes all applicable laws, regulations, other relevant obligations, and company policies, maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards in all business conduct.
- Maintains a productive and safe working environment in strict accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
- Consults directly with company engineering and senior management as a subject matter expert in the development and refinement of GA-ASI’s product line of aircraft.
- Develops and meticulously verifies procedures for use with new aircraft features and capabilities.
- Designs and creates comprehensive training syllabus courseware, encompassing detailed research, word processing, and presentation development.
Job Qualifications
Candidates for this demanding role must possess a robust aviation background and demonstrate a complete understanding of technical principles, theories, and concepts related to unmanned aviation and flight test operations.
- **Education and Experience:** Typically requires education or formal training equivalent to a four-year technical degree and a minimum of ten years of progressive experience in ground and flight test operations. Equivalent professional aviation experience may be substituted in lieu of a formal degree.
- **Pilot Certifications & Experience (Mandatory):**
- Possession of a current FAA Commercial Certificate with a valid instrument rating.
- Hold a current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
- A minimum of 2000 total logged pilot hours.
- At least 1500 hours as Pilot-in-Command.
- A minimum of 500 hours of cross-country flight time.
- At least 100 hours of instrument flight time.
- A minimum of 500 hours of flight time in turbine aircraft.
- **Essential Skills:**
- Demonstrated excellent organizational skills, including superior planning and coordination abilities for complex work assignments.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with a particular emphasis on fostering teamwork and exhibiting exceptional verbal and written communication.
- Proven ability to effectively interface with all levels of employees, as well as military and civilian customers.
- Profound knowledge of computer applications and operations pertinent to advanced aviation roles.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
- **Highly Desirable Qualifications:**
- Previous operational experience with Predator, other UAV platforms, or significant military aviator/aviation experience.
- Possession of FAA instructor ratings (CFI - Certified Flight Instructor and CFII - Certified Flight Instructor Instrument) in manned aircraft.
- Graduation from a recognized Test Pilot School.
Additional Requirements
This position offers a competitive salary range of $140,940 – $252,293. It requires U.S. Citizenship and a current security clearance or the ability to obtain one, with a preference for candidates possessing experience commensurate with a Senior (8+ years) clearance level. This is an onsite role with potential for 0-25% travel, and relocation assistance is provided for qualified candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
General Atomics is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. EEO is the law. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws.