Global Hawk Principal/Senior Principal Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Pilot
Northrop Grumman seeks highly skilled and experienced aviation professionals to join its team as Principal or Senior Principal Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Pilots. These critical roles contribute to the development, testing, and operation of Global Hawk systems, supporting national security and defense initiatives. The positions offer a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology, making a significant impact on global operations. The successful candidate will be a key member of a team that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in unmanned aviation.
Responsibilities:
The selected candidate will be responsible for piloting Global Hawk UAVs during developmental testing and operational flights. This includes:
- Remotely piloting the UAV to ensure compliance with specifications and operational suitability during engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support.
- Defining, planning, organizing, and executing complex flight programs and flight test events.
- Conducting pre- and post-flight briefings and coordinating with maintenance personnel to diagnose and rectify aircraft discrepancies.
- Leading demonstration flights for customers, government officials, or other personnel to showcase aircraft performance, handling qualities, and system capabilities.
- Performing Global Hawk Pilot and Instructor Pilot duties for the Logistics and Operations Support Center.
- Serving as the primary Global Hawk pilot for launch, recovery, and sensor operations segments of Global Hawk missions.
- Participating in the planning and execution of Global Hawk flight operations as directed by the customer.
Qualifications:
Principal UAV Pilot:
- High school diploma or equivalent and 9 years of aviation experience; or Bachelor's degree in a related field and 5 years of aviation experience; or Master's degree and 3 years of related aviation experience.
- Qualified Global Hawk Instructor Pilot.
- FAA Commercial Pilot or ATP Certificate.
- Single-engine land privileges with an Instrument Rating.
- Minimum 500 flight hours as pilot-in-command of a manned aircraft.
- Current Class II or higher FAA medical certificate.
- Current Secret clearance required.
Senior Principal UAV Pilot:
- High school diploma or equivalent and 13 years of aviation experience; or Bachelor's degree in a related field and 9 years of aviation experience; or Master's degree and 7 years of related aviation experience.
- Qualified Global Hawk Instructor Pilot.
- FAA Commercial Pilot or ATP Certificate.
- Single-engine land privileges with an Instrument Rating.
- Minimum 500 flight hours as pilot-in-command of a manned aircraft.
- Current Class II or higher FAA medical certificate.
- Current Secret clearance required.
Preferred Qualifications (Principal/Senior Principal):
- Current Global Hawk Instructor Pilot certification.
Compensation and Benefits:
Salary Range (Principal): $107,300 - $160,900
Salary Range (Senior Principal): $133,000 - $199,600 (Note: Salary is commensurate with experience.)
Discretionary bonus eligibility. Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, life and disability insurance, savings plan, paid holidays, and paid time off.
Location:
Unknown City, Maryland, USA (Telecommuting may be considered).
Travel:
Up to 50% travel required.
Clearance:
Secret clearance required.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and values diversity. U.S. citizenship is required for this position.