Job Description

Drone Pilot Group 3 UAS/UAV

A Drone Pilot with Group 3 UAS/UAV expertise is responsible for executing safe, precise, and mission-ready flight operations across both continental and international environments. This role requires advanced External Pilot skills, strong technical proficiency with ground control systems, autopilot technologies, and mission-planning software, along with the ability to travel extensively and support sensitive missions requiring a Secret clearance.

Responsibilities:

• Operate Group 3 UAS/UAV platforms as External Pilot and Pilot in Command, ensuring safe and compliant flight operations.
• Execute mission plans including launch, recovery, navigation, and emergency procedures.
• Configure, monitor, and troubleshoot ground station software and mission-planning tools.
• Manage and tune autopilot systems, including autonomous flight modes and navigation settings.
• Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections and documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and safety teams to support mission planning and system integration.
• Maintain detailed logs of flight hours, maintenance actions, and mission outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with FAA, DoD, and internal operational standards.
• Support training, evaluation, and mentorship of junior UAS operators.
• Travel up to 50%, including international locations, to support field operations, testing, and customer missions.
• Adhere to all security protocols required for Secret-level programs.

Essential Skills:

• 5+ years of professional UAS/UAV flight experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency as an External Pilot for Group 3 aircraft.
• Hands-on experience with ground station software and mission-planning tools.
• Strong understanding of autopilot systems, autonomous flight modes, and UAS navigation technologies.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.
• Ability and willingness to travel 50%, including international deployments.
• Excellent situational awareness and decision-making under dynamic conditions.
• Class II Medical Certificate.

Additional Skills & Qualifications:

• 250500+ Pilot-in-Command (PIC) hours on Group 3 UAS platforms.
• Experience with Vigilant Spirit or QGroundControl (QGC).
• Former military experience, especially in UAS-related roles.
• Familiarity with BVLOS operations, advanced autonomy, or multi-vehicle coordination.
• Certifications such as Part 107, OEM-specific training, or military UAS qualifications.
• AFCS Codes: 1UOX1, 1U1X1, 1A3X1.
• MOS Codes: 15W, 15C, 15Q.
• Experience in the Remote Control (RC) industry is beneficial.

Why Work Here?

Join a rapidly growing organization with a great work environment and culture. Be part of a team that values your expertise and offers opportunities for professional growth.

Work Environment:

Work within an aircraft manufacturing setting, primarily on a standard day shift. Be prepared to work long hours when necessary to accomplish the mission.

Job Type & Location:

This is a Permanent position based out of Madison, AL.

Pay and Benefits:

The pay range for this position is $60000.00 - $100000.00/yr. Medical Dental 401K PTO- both holiday pay and vacation.

Workplace Type:

This is a fully onsite position in Madison, AL.

Application Deadline:

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 20, 2026.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs