sUAS Pilot

PDW; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage

Safe Harbor 401(k) with company match

Competitive salary

On-site fitness center

Job summary

A technology firm supporting defense operations in Huntsville, AL is seeking an experienced sUAS Pilot to perform critical flight operations. The role involves supporting engineering and production objectives, ensuring system and aircraft readiness, and analyzing flight data. Ideal candidates will have over 3 years of experience in sUAS operations and a relevant educational background. This position offers comprehensive benefits, including medical coverage and a flexible leave policy.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in operating and maintaining sUAS systems.
• Experience with loading systems and third-party software.
• Ability to read and interpret in-depth test plans and assembly instructions.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to creatively solve problems.
• Experience working on research and development projects.
• Associates in Engineering or equivalent work experience in a related field.

Responsibilities

• Perform flight operations supporting engineering and production initiatives.
• Conduct ground and flight testing per test plans.
• Analyze system features and functions during testing.
• Articulate system anomalies to appropriate engineering teams.
• Assist with fleet management of PDW test assets ensuring system readiness and maintenance documentation.
• Assist with configuration management of PDW test fleet.
• Coordinate assets in support of PDW global objectives.

Skills

sUAS operations and maintenance

Technical documentation interpretation

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Problem solving

R&D experience

Engineering associate degree

Education

Associates in Engineering or equivalent work experience

Tools

3rd‑party software

Data loggers

Job description

About

Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose‑built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions.

Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for an experienced sUAS Pilot who can perform critical flight operations. The successful candidate will support engineering and production flight objectives and has a strong technical background along with a proven track record in sUAS flight operations.

What You'll Do

• Perform flight operations directly supporting functional engineering, production, and customer integration initiatives
• Perform ground and flight test objectives in accordance with test plans
• Provide critical analysis of system features and functions through various stages of testing
• Articulate system anomalies to appropriate function engineering teams
• Assist with fleet management of PDW test assets ensuring system readiness, aircraft status, and proper maintenance documentation
• Assist with configuration management duties of PDW test fleet
• Coordinate assets in support of PDW global objectives

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in operating and maintaining sUAS systems
• Experience with loading systems and third‑party software and performing data logger analysis
• Ability to read and interpret technical documentation including in‑depth test plans and assembly instructions
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to creatively solve problems
• Experience working on research and development projects
• Associates in Engineering or equivalent work experience in a related field

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift/carry up to 50 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment such as computers, printers, and phones. Must be physically capable of walking between the office and production areas and attending events or meetings off‑site as needed.

This position typically operates in a standard flight operations setting and manufacturing environment. It requires use of standard office and flight equipment, may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities, and may expose the employee to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non‑climate‑controlled environments. PPE may be required depending on the environment. The role is fast‑paced and requires cross‑departmental collaboration with independent and team‑based responsibilities. Standard work hours are 8:30 am–5:00 pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

Compliance

In compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders), or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Compensation and Benefits

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company
• Safe Harbor 401(k) with company match
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options
• On‑site fitness center

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non‑discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at PDW by 2x.

Get notified about new Pilot jobs in Huntsville, AL.