DHC‑8 ISR Captain – Deployed/Rotational

Pilot Assessments; Bridgewater (VA); On-site; USD 190,000 - 270,000; Full time

Job summary

Dynamic Aviation seeks a DHC-8 Captain to execute tactical ISR missions and functional check flights, enabling real-time decision-making for customers in austere environments.

You will pilot the Dash-8, conduct precise aerial surveys, and operate onboard sensor systems while adhering to FARs and company SOPs. The role demands security clearance, extensive flight hours, and strong teamwork in challenging conditions.

Qualifications

• Requires a team-oriented pilot capable of operating in confined hangars and extreme weather.
• Must maintain physical stamina for long deployments and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Extensive flight experience, including multi-engine turboprop operations, is essential.

Responsibilities

• Pilot the Dash-8 for company operations, including functional check flights and ISR missions.
• Conduct aerial survey profiles driven by sensor requirements in varied terrain and weather.
• Operate mission systems and sensors after training.
• Serve as Mission Briefing Officer and maintain daily customer communications.

Skills

Teamwork

Physical fitness

Flight experience

Security clearance

Education

High school diploma

Some college education

Job description

Mission & Impact

As a deployed DHC‑8 Captain, you will execute tactical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions and functional check flights that enable real‑time decision‑making for customers in austere locations. You’ll represent Dynamic Aviation with professionalism on the ground and in the air, delivering safe, precise operations in complex airspace, terrain, and weather.

What You’ll Do

• Pilot the Dash‑8 for company operations, including functional check flights and CONUS/OCONUS ISR missions.
• Conduct precise aerial survey profiles driven by diverse sensor requirements in varied terrain and weather.
• Operate onboard mission systems after training, including ELINT and E/O IR sensors and communications equipment.
• Serve as Mission Briefing Officer and provide daily customer communications while deployed.
• Adhere to FARs, applicable Air Force guidance, and company standards and SOPs.
• Support mission operations on non‑flying days, including office and aircraft support duties as assigned.
• Project a confident, professional pilot image with customers and the public.

What You’ll Bring (Required)

• High school diploma (or equivalent).
• ATP certificate (unrestricted) or current FAA Commercial Pilot License with instrument and multi‑engine ratings.
• High‑performance and high‑altitude endorsements.
• First‑ or Second‑Class FAA medical certificate.
• Restricted Radiotelephone Operator’s Permit.
• Minimum flight experience:
  • 1,200 hours total time.
  • 1,000 hours PIC.
  • 300 hours PIC in multi‑engine turboprop aircraft.
• DoD Secret security clearance (active or eligible).
• Valid U.S. passport and ability to travel/deploy ~65 days per rotation (longer if required).
• Strong teamwork; ability to work in close proximity to others in enclosed hangars and exterior weather conditions.
• Ability to lift, balance, and carry up to 50 lbs; sit or stand for extended periods.

Preferred Qualifications

• Some college education.
• Dash‑8 type rating.
• 3,000+ hours total PIC; 1,000+ hours total turbine time.
• 200+ hours PIC in the Dash‑8.
• At least one year of prior deployed experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and working knowledge of operating systems and field technology.
• Previous airborne sensor‑operation experience.

Schedule & Travel

• Roster: Approximately 65 days on a customer‑driven rotational basis; may extend as mission needs dictate.
• Home Base: Bridgewater, VA for staging/training; relocation not required.
• Theater: Mix of CONUS and OCONUS deployments to austere locations.

Ready to Fly the Mission?

If you meet the requirements and are motivated by complex mission flying with real‑world impact, we’d like to hear from you.