Aerostat Flight Director - 24/7 Ops Leader

QinetiQ U.S.; McAllen (TX); On-site; USD 82,656,000 - 96,432,000; Full time

Job summary

QinetiQ US seeks an experienced Operator 2/Flight Director to support aerostat systems providing persistent surveillance across sites in the Rio Grande Valley, TX, near the U.S.-Mexico border. You will join a flight crew coordinating pre-launch, launch, ascent, and recovery operations.

You will report to the Aerostat Operations Director, participate in maintenance planning, and ensure safety and mission readiness across multiple sites, working a 24/7 schedule as required.

Qualifications

• GED or High School Diploma required.
• 2 years of direct aerostat experience; degrees may substitute.
• Must obtain Aerostat Flight Director Certification.
• Valid U.S. Driver's license.
• Must be able to work in a 24/7 shift.
• Proof of U.S. residency required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as operational crew in a 24/7 aerostat operation.
• Directs and performs aerostat preflight and post-flight checks.
• Maintains weather status and forecasts for mission planning.
• Communicates with Control Center and government agencies.
• Prepares flight system weight logs and balance records.
• Trains personnel on aerostat system procedures.
• Oversees inflation, deflation, launch, and recovery activities.

Skills

Operational aerostat experience

English fluency

Driver's license

Shift readiness 24/7

Education

GED or High School Diploma

Associate or Bachelor degree substitution

Tools

Background Investigation clearance

Job description

QinetiQ US seeks an experienced Operator 2/Flight Director to support aerostat systems providing persistent surveillance across sites in the Rio Grande Valley, TX, near the U.S.-Mexico border. You will join a flight crew coordinating pre-launch, launch, ascent, and recovery operations.

You will report to the Aerostat Operations Director, participate in maintenance planning, and ensure safety and mission readiness across multiple sites, working a 24/7 schedule as required.