Air Vehicle Operator (AVO) (Contingent Upon Contract Award)

Pacificopower; Destin (FL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A2G International is seeking an experienced Air Vehicle Operator to lead and execute UAS missions, coordinating with engineering and operations teams in a fast-paced, safety-focused environment.

You will operate as PIC or SIC on Group 3+ UAS platforms, ensure regulatory compliance, and contribute to mission planning, debriefs, and continuous improvement efforts. Strong FAA/DoD knowledge and DoD security clearance are required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience operating Group 4 or higher UAS platforms.
• Familiarity with aircraft subsystems and DoD procedures.
• Working knowledge of FAA, ICAO, and DoD airspace and operations procedures.
• Proven ability to manage mission planning and crew resource coordination.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Lead the safe operation of UAS in compliance with FAA, DoD, and customer flight regulations.
• Execute detailed test plans and flight cards in coordination with engineering and operations teams.
• Coordinate and conduct ground and flight operations, including mission planning, execution, and debriefing.
• Operate as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) or Second-in-Command (SIC) for developmental and operational UAS missions.
• Provide input for manual updates and adapt to rapidly changing mission requirements.
• Deliver feedback on corrective actions and contribute to continuous improvement.
• Guide and assist other technical personnel on flight operations and procedures.
• Communicate regularly with engineering teams on aircraft performance and system functionality.
• Support technical support teams in resolving customer and system-related challenges.
• Follow all safety protocols and report hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.

Skills

UAS operations

Flight planning

Crew resource coordination

DoD procedures

Microsoft Office

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About us:

A2G International is a leader in manned/unmanned aircraft operations and support, providing world-class solutions to defense and commercial sectors. We are committed to innovation, excellence, and the success of our customers’ missions across the globe.

A2G is actively recruiting an experienced Air Vehicle Operator (AVO) to operate Group 3 or larger UAS platforms in a dynamic operational environment. The AVO will play a critical role in planning, executing, and debriefing UAS missions, while ensuring compliance with all regulatory, procedural, and safety standards.

This position requires technical expertise, leadership in flight operations, and close coordination with engineering and mission teams to support test and operational deployments.

What you get to do:

• Lead the safe operation of UAS in compliance with FAA, DoD, and customer flight regulations.
• Execute detailed test plans and flight cards in coordination with engineering and operations teams.
• Coordinate and conduct ground and flight operations, including mission planning, execution, and debriefing.
• Operate as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) or Second-in-Command (SIC) for developmental and operational UAS missions.
• Provide input for manual updates and adapt to rapidly changing mission requirements.
• Deliver feedback on corrective actions and contribute to continuous improvement.
• Guide and assist other technical personnel on flight operations and procedures.
• Communicate regularly with engineering teams on aircraft performance and system functionality.
• Support technical support teams in resolving customer and system-related challenges.
• Follow all safety protocols and report hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.

Please note:

A2G International uses Pacifico Energy Group's (PEG) hiring portal to manage the application and recruitment process. As a result, you may receive communications from PEG throughout the hiring process. This position is with A2G International, and all employment terms, conditions, and onboarding will be managed directly by A2G.

• FAA Commercial Pilot License, or 500+ hours operating Group 3-5 UAS.
• Minimum Flight Experience: 100 hours as SIC with 20 launches/recoveries, or 50 hours as SIC with 30 launches/recoveries.
• Current FAA Class II Medical Certificate (or ability to obtain).
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Must have an active SECRET DoD security clearance.
• Must be capable to travel OCONUS.

Required Skills & Experience

• 5+ years of experience operating Group 4 or higher UAS platforms.
• Familiarity with aircraft subsystems: powerplant, electrical, and RF systems.
• Working knowledge of FAA, ICAO, and DoD airspace and operations procedures.
• Proven ability to manage mission planning and crew resource coordination.
• Experience with DCMA procedures and flight standards enforcement.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and assist in engineering feedback loops.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications

• 100+ hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC).
• FAA Instrument Rating.
• Prior support of CONUS and/or OCONUS flight operations.
• Experience in experimental or test flight programs.
• Previous experience as a UAS Instructor or an FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate.