Principal UAV Pilot – Unmanned ISR (Triton)

Northrop Grumman; Maryland; On-site; USD 125,000 - 235,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Annual bonus

Paid time off

Overtime opportunities

Job summary

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is seeking a Principal/Sr. Principal Pilot - Unmanned Air Vehicle to lead developmental and operational flight tests for the MQ-4C Triton at NAS Patuxent River, MD.

The role requires top‑level flight test expertise, UAV/PIC hours, and the ability to obtain SAP clearance while working onsite with occasional travel to Palmdale, CA. Competitive salary and benefits offered.

Qualifications

• Active TS clearance required or in process with continuous evaluation.
• FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating and PIC hours.
• 250+ UAV/PIC hours or 150+ hours on MQ-4 platform.
• Ability to obtain SAP clearance as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead flight test and UAV operations for Triton program.
• Plan and execute complex flight profiles and tests.
• Coordinate with maintenance to resolve discrepancies.
• Deliver NATOPS instruction or evaluation as needed.
• Complete UAV operator training and qualification program.

Skills

FAA Pilot Certificate with Instrument

Manned aircraft PIC hours

UAV/UAS flight hours

NATOPS familiarity

Test flight experience

Education

Bachelor of Science

Master's degree (optional)

Ph.D. (optional)

Tools

FAA medical certificate class II

Job description

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is seeking a Principal/Sr. Principal Pilot - Unmanned Air Vehicle to lead developmental and operational flight tests for the MQ-4C Triton at NAS Patuxent River, MD.

The role requires top‑level flight test expertise, UAV/PIC hours, and the ability to obtain SAP clearance while working onsite with occasional travel to Palmdale, CA. Competitive salary and benefits offered.