Job Overview

AEVEX Aerospace is looking for an air vehicle operator to perform flight operations, testing, training, demonstrations, and maintenance in CONUS and OCONUS environments depending on customer requirements. This skilled external pilot will have proven experience operating Group 3+ VTOL unmanned aircraft systems in military flight test and operational environments. Expert in manual Radio Control flight operations—including takeoff, landing, and emergency recovery—ensuring safe and precise control of UAS platforms. Adept at supporting developmental testing, working collaboratively with flight test teams, and responding swiftly under pressure.

Essential Functions

• Operate as External Pilot for electric-hybrid VTOL UAS platforms exceeding 250 lbs in both test and operational missions
• Manually control aircraft via radio transmitter during launch, recovery, and emergency procedures
• Coordinate seamlessly with Internal Pilots, Mission Commanders, and GCS Operators for safe and effective mission execution
• Contribute to pre-flight briefings, post-flight debriefings, and overall flight test planning
• Assist in the development of test cards, flight procedures, and enhancements to flight control systems
• Observe, document, and help resolve flight anomalies and system irregularities
• Adhere to stringent safety protocols, mission SOPs, and applicable airspace regulations
• Deploy to both CONUS and OCONUS test sites in support of dynamic and high-priority mission requirements
• Mentor and train new UAS pilots to enhance team capability and mission readiness
• Log performance data and flight notes to support engineering analysis and continuous improvement
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Standard Essential Functions

• Regular and reliable attendance on a full time basis [or in accordance with posted schedule].
• Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
• Embodies AEVEX’s cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and company culture.

Qualifications and Competencies

• Proficient in manual control of multi-rotor, fixed-wing, and hybrid VTOL aircraft
• Strong understanding of UAS flight control systems, aerodynamics, and recovery operations
• Familiar with military UAS operations and FAA regulatory frameworks
• In-depth working knowledge of telemetry radios, command-and-control systems, and handheld transmitters used in UAS operations.
• Familiarity with software tools for flight planning, data analysis, and mission management.
• Capable of operating in austere field environments while maintaining VLOS and situational awareness
• Ability to maintain a Class II flight physical.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to safety.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in dynamic and challenging environments.

Education / Certifications

• HS/GED minimum
• Bachelor's Degree preferred
• FAA Class II Medical (or ability to obtain)
• FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) or equivalent certification from relevant aviation authority.
• Valid U.S. Driver’s License and Passport
• 300 hours as Pilot in Command (Unmanned).

Experience

• 8+ years of relevant experience with demonstrated knowledge of UAS flight systems and operations; experience supporting large-scale developmental UAS programs is preferred.
• 5+ years of relevant experience with a Bachelors Degree
• 4+ years of relevant experience with a Master's Degree
• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience with ArduPilot, including at least 6 months supporting Group 3 fixed-wing platforms.
• Demonstrated experience operating Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 fixed-wing UAS.
• Proven experience conducting beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flight operations using open- source ground control software, including Mission Planner, QGroundControl, and BetaFlight.
• Demonstrated experience working with both gas and electric propulsion systems, including setup, operation, and basic troubleshooting.
• Proven professional briefing experience with both internal stakeholders and external customers.
• Demonstrated professional experience working with or in support of the U.S. Department of State (DoS), U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), or other government contracting agencies.
• Experienced in developmental flight testing, simulator-based instruction, and iterative system testing

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties the employee is:

• Frequently required to stand for extended periods of time
• Frequently required to view objects up close and distant range with hand eye coordination
• Occasionally experience a high level of noise, adverse weather or temperature conditions

For the purpose of this summary, occasionally is used to represent up to 1/3 of the time given to the work day, frequently represents 1/3 to 2/3 of the time and constantly represents 2/3 or more of the time.

Security Clearance

• Ability to obtain/maintain a Secret DoD clearance, U.S. Citizenship required.

Disclaimer:

AEVEX Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, religious creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, breast feeding and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, military and veteran status, marital status, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, physical disability, mental disability, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws.