SR. TECHNICAL SPECIALIST - TECHNICAL SPECIALIST - Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research and development firm seeks a skilled Technical Specialist/Senior Technical Specialist in Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) in San Antonio, Texas. This role involves applying technical knowledge to UAS implementation and testing, supporting sensor and payload integration, and contributing to field operations. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in UAS or a relevant field, with a Part 107 Drone Pilot License and at least two years of experience in UAS systems. The position requires American citizenship and may require a government security clearance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in UAS or directly related field with experience.
• Part 107 Drone Pilot License and current USG security clearance desired.
• 2+ years experience with UAS systems emphasizing deployment and integration.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement solutions for UAS systems including sensor integration.
• Perform in-field testing and data collection for system validation.
• Develop technical documentation like user specifications and test plans.

Skills

UAS design

Integration

Field operations

Data analysis

RF-based systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Unmanned Aircraft Systems or related field

Part 107 Drone Pilot Certificate

Job description

Who We Are

Join an independent research and development (R&D) company where innovation meets national security solutions. We are seeking a skilled and motivated Technical Specialist/Senior Technical Specialist in Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). This individual will contribute expertise in UAS design, integration, testing, and field operations, specializing in enabling cutting‑edge solutions to mission‑critical challenges.

Objectives of this Role

• Apply advanced technical knowledge to the implementation, testing, and integration of UAS systems across research and development initiatives.
• Support the development and integration of payloads, sensors, and autonomous platforms tailored to field operations and mission objectives.
• Work on multidisciplinary teams to tackle dynamic and complex challenges associated with diverse operating conditions.
• Provide technical specialization in key areas such as mission planning, embedded computing, UAS autonomy, and real‑time field deployment scenarios.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities

• Design and implement specialized technological solutions for UAS-related systems, including payload and sensor integration.
• Perform in‑field testing, data collection, and analysis to support system validation and performance optimization.
• Demonstrate proficiency in operating and optimizing RF‑based systems, including transmitters, command‑and‑control links, and wireless communication architectures (e.g., cellular, SATCOM, mesh networks).
• Develop comprehensive technical documentation, such as user specifications, test plans, and standard operating procedures.

Requirements

• Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or directly related degree in UAS Systems with related experience.
• Current Part 107 Drone Pilot License required. Current USG security clearance is highly desirable.
• 2+ years: Bachelor of Science in Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Aerospace Science, Systems Integration, or a related field of study.
• 1 year: Part 107 Drone Pilot Certificate (FAA).
• 2 years: Experience with UAS systems, emphasizing field deployment, payload integration, and compliance validation.
• 2 years: Ability to perform operations and testing in challenging environments, including extreme weather conditions and remote outdoor settings.
• A valid/clear driver’s license is required.

Special Requirements

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.

Job Locations: San Antonio, Texas