Chief Test Pilot Tactical Systems

• Operate as External Pilot for electric-hybrid VTOL, fixed wing, gas, turbine UAS platforms exceeding 350 lbs in both test and operational missions
• Coordinate closely with engineering and systems teams to define test requirements and provide feedback on UAS performance
• 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
• Contribute to Test Readiness Reviews to discuss hazards, risks, and procedures for safe flight operations on experimental high-risk tests
• Ensure flight operations adhere to airworthiness, risk mitigation, and test safety standards
• 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
• Lead pilot to perform training and pilot proficiency check out of new personnel and existing External Pilots
• Conduct pre-flight planning, mission briefs, and post-flight debriefs
• Oversee flight readiness and aircrew training for assigned UAS systems
• Maintain and update test pilot logs, technical flight data, and reports
• Participate in accident/incident investigations and flight safety reviews
• Represent the company in customer and regulatory flight demonstrations as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Strong working knowledge of FAA, DoD, and/or ICAO UAS flight regulations
• Familiar with military UAS operations and FAA regulatory frameworks
• Knowledge of airspace coordination, range safety, and risk management practices
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety
• Ability to maintain a Class II flight physical
• Proficient in manual control of multi-rotor, fixed-wing, hybrid VTOL aircraft, including gas, electric, and turbine platforms
• Ability to fly complex systems with landing gear, high wing loading, high speeds, and in challenging environments
• Strong understanding of UAS flight control systems, aerodynamics, and recovery operations
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness
• Ability to display flight competency through simulation and live aircraft operation
• Proficiency in UAS mission planning software and flight control systems
• Familiar with Mission Planner and ArduPilot flight controllers, including associated hardware and software
• Familiar with tuning and operating 2-stroke gas engines and turbines, including performing maintenance
• Ability to train and sign off on incoming External Pilots and assist with maintaining proficiency in AEVEX emergency procedures
• Ability to work with Government Flight Representatives and customers in the capacity of lead pilot
• Capable of operating in austere field environments while maintaining VLOS and situational awareness
• Able to work in field environments and travel as needed for test campaigns
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in dynamic and challenging environments
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written
• High School Diploma/GED required, Bachelor's Degree preferred
• FAA Class II Medical (or ability to obtain)
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required (or military equivalent)
• Part-61 preferred
• Turbine Waiver
• Valid U.S. Driver’s License and Passport
• 6-8 years of relative experience and knowledge of basic UAS flight systems and operations, large scale work on developmental UAS preferred
• 10+ years Radio Controlled flight experience with complex models up to 55 lbs.
• Experience with test documentation, technical report writing, and flight data analysis
• Professional experience briefing both internal and external customers
• Professional experience with the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Defense, or other Government contracting agencies
• Minimum of 500 hrs flight experience Radio Control and UAS Systems
• Experienced in high-risk developmental flight testing, simulator-based instruction, and iterative system testing
• Ability to obtain/maintain a Secret DoD clearance, Top Secret preferred
• U.S. Citizenship required

Experience with software tools for flight planning, data analysis, and mission management is a plus

• 401(k)-retirement plan
• comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance group coverage with a portion of the premiums paid by the company
• professional development funds
• Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) with counseling, legal help, child and elder care support