Aerostat Flight Director — 24/7 Operations Lead

QinetiQ; Santa Teresa (NM); On-site; USD 106,086,000 - 111,586,000; Full time

Job summary

QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Operator 2/Flight Director to support aerostat operations across multiple sites near the U.S. southern border. The role involves pre-launch to recovery activities, weather monitoring, and coordination with Control Center and government facilities.

The successful candidate will manage 24/7 operations, direct subsystem checks, and ensure safety and performance of aerostat platforms. A valid U.S. driver's license and English fluency are required.

Qualifications

• GED or High School Diploma is required.
• 3 years’ direct experience with aerostat systems; advanced substitution allowed with degrees.
• Aerostat Flight Director Certification is required and must remain current.
• Valid U.S. Driver’s license required.
• Must be fluent in English (read, write, speak).
• Willingness to work in a 24/7 shift and be assigned to varying shifts.

Responsibilities

• Operate as operational crew in a 24/7 aerostat mission cycle (pre-launch to recovery).
• Perform aerostat electronic subsystem preflight and post-flight checks and inspections.
• Maintain weather condition status and trends affecting missions.
• Coordinate with Control Center and meteorological facilities and other agencies.
• Prepare flight system weight logs and maintain weight/balance records.
• Evaluate lift and purity trends and report anomalies with remedial actions.
• Apply advanced technical knowledge to diagnose complex electronic equipment issues.
• Lead aerostat system maintenance and systemic procedures.

Skills

Aerostat operations

Flight operations

24/7 shift readiness

English fluency

Physical capability

Education

GED or High School Diploma

Associate or Bachelor substituted for experience

Job description

QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Operator 2/Flight Director to support aerostat operations across multiple sites near the U.S. southern border. The role involves pre-launch to recovery activities, weather monitoring, and coordination with Control Center and government facilities.

The successful candidate will manage 24/7 operations, direct subsystem checks, and ensure safety and performance of aerostat platforms. A valid U.S. driver's license and English fluency are required.