Advanced Drone Operator

Allencontrolsystems; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

ACS Equity Package

Health, Dental, Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Allen Control Systems in Austin, Texas, is seeking a highly skilled drone operator to enhance our flight operations. This position involves operating drones for testing and evaluation, requiring a Part 107 certification and hands-on experience in drone technology.

The ideal candidate has over 3 years of experience in drone operations or robotics, capable of planning complex missions and collaborating across teams.

The role offers a competitive salary, ACS equity package, and comprehensive health insurance.

“

Qualifications

• 3+ years of relevant drone operation or robotics experience.
• Hands-on experience in building and flying drones.
• Operational understanding of drones in conflicts.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain drones for testing and missions.
• Plan complex flight missions using Mission Planner.
• Collaborate with teams to collect aerial data.

Skills

Part 107 certified pilot

Drone operation experience

Mission Planner proficiency

Problem-solving skills

Collaboration across teams

Tools

Beta Flight

Job description

Company Overview

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting‑edge defense startup, founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.

With an engineering‑first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders' successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop will have a real‑world impact.

Position Overview

We are expanding our flight operations capability and opening a new role for a highly skilled drone operator who is experienced in building, configuring, and flying advanced UAV systems. This person will play a key role in executing flight tests, evaluating drone performance, and supporting real‑world operational requirements. You will serve as an additional Part 107 certified pilot to meet our growing testing and mission needs.

What You'll Do

• Operate and maintain drones for testing, evaluation, and operational missions.
• Plan and execute complex flight missions using Mission Planner and Beta Flight.
• Build, configure, and troubleshoot drone hardware and software systems.
• Collaborate with engineering and data teams to collect and validate aerial data for computer vision model training.
• Conduct flight tests to evaluate performance and integrate feedback into drone design and operational procedures.
• Document flight operations, maintain detailed logs, and support mission debriefs.

What You'll Need

• Part 107 certified pilot.
• Hands‑on experience in printing, building, and flying drones for offensive operations.
• Operational understanding of how drones are used in current conflicts around the world.
• Proficient in Mission Planner and Beta Flight for mission planning and drone control.
• Familiarity with data collection and integration into computer vision or analytics workflows.
• 3+ years of relevant drone operation or robotics experience.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work in dynamic, experimental environments.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• ACS Equity Package
• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off

Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.