Remote Pilot Operator at ZDC

Saic; Leesburg (VA); Remote; USD 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a Full-time Remote Pilot Operator to support air traffic controller training services. This exciting role involves operating a simulated radar display and voice communication system, mimicking pilot actions and remote ATC communications. Candidates will work in a dynamic environment, ensuring high safety and professionalism standards in air traffic control training. If you have strong communication skills and a passion for aviation, this opportunity is perfect for you!

Qualifications

• Must complete certifications in airspace and procedures.
• Ability to read and interpret diagrams and manuals.

Responsibilities

• Operate simulated radar display and voice communication system.
• Translate information into ATC terminology.

Skills

Clear spoken communication skills

Basic computer proficiency

Team-building skills

Effective oral and written communication skills

Basic knowledge of pilot/controller communications

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

MS Office Suite

Job description

Description

• PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position.

We are seeking Full-time Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Washington ARTCC (ZDC) in Leesburg, VA. The role involves supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Job Description:

The RPO acts as the pilot and other controllers within the Air Traffic Controller training simulator. Responsibilities include operating a simulated radar display and voice communication system to mimic pilot actions and remote ATC communications during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input data into automated systems, translate information into ATC terminology, and communicate via VCS using proper phraseology.

The candidate must complete certifications in the classroom (airspace and procedures test) and lab (performing as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).

The FAA ensures high safety and professionalism standards in air traffic control. It employs over 14,000 controllers managing more than 50,000 daily aircraft movements across the NAS. To maintain these standards, the FAA provides comprehensive training, supported by contractors like SAIC, to train and certify air traffic controllers at various facility levels.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent, with basic computer proficiency.
• Ability to read and interpret diagrams and manuals.
• Clear spoken communication skills.
• US Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.

Desired Skills and Experience:

• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams (e.g., Multimedia Developers, QA, Instructional Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors).
• Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON, or En Route simulation labs is highly desirable.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of FAAO JO 7110.65 is a plus.
• Team-building skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Familiarity with current technological tools (tablets, notebooks, applications).
• Basic knowledge of pilot/controller communications or phraseology.

SAIC reviews applications continuously; there is no application deadline.
Covid Policy: SAIC does not require COVID-19 vaccinations or boosters. Site-specific vaccination policies apply at customer locations.