Flight Operations Deployment Lead

Platform Aerospace; Blackstone (VA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Platform Aerospace seeks a Deployment Site Lead to oversee on-site management of deployed personnel supporting customer operations. You will ensure contract execution, personnel readiness, and efficient site operations while remaining ready to support Flight Operations through documentation, planning, and logistics.

Expect to lead pre-/post-deployment activities, mentor staff, and maintain compliance with safety, security, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Unmanned Systems or related field.
• 5+ years of related experience; or 9+ years in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum 1,000 flight hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
• Experience supporting deployed UAS ISR operations.
• Must currently possess and maintain a DoD Secret Security Clearance.
• Ability to obtain an FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
• Up to 100% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• Private Pilot License (PPL).

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary on-site leader, overseeing deployed personnel and ensuring compliance with contract requirements, operational directives, and mission objectives.
• Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight safety checks as PIC.
• Train and mentor deployed personnel on operational procedures, compliance requirements, and deployment-related responsibilities.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between Platform Aerospace, customer representatives, government and military officials, and other stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment and operational issues to maximize mission readiness and aircraft availability.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, security, and operational requirements, including government regulations and company policies.
• Conduct site inspections, briefings, and status reviews to evaluate and improve operational effectiveness.
• Manage logistical and administrative requirements, including personnel housing, transportation, and overall welfare.
• Lead pre-deployment and post-deployment briefings to ensure personnel readiness and mission continuity.
• Develop and implement contingency plans to mitigate risk and support uninterrupted operations.
• Support Flight Operations during non-deployment periods through documentation management, operational reporting, planning, and process improvement initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as required to support mission success.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Unmanned Systems or related field

9+ years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree

Tools

Vigilant Spirit

Quattro FMS

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Private Pilot License (PPL)

FAA Class II Medical Certificate

DoD Secret Security Clearance

Job description

Platform Aerospace seeks a Deployment Site Lead to oversee on-site management of deployed personnel supporting customer operations. You will ensure contract execution, personnel readiness, and efficient site operations while remaining ready to support Flight Operations through documentation, planning, and logistics.

Expect to lead pre-/post-deployment activities, mentor staff, and maintain compliance with safety, security, and regulatory requirements.