sUAS Trainer

Rippling, Inc.; United States; Remote; USD 130,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

BCBS medical coverage

401(k) with company match

Employer provided life insurance

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Generous PTO and flexible leave

Job summary

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems with operator-centered design and rapid field iteration. This remote US-based role supports training delivery and system maintenance across defense and public safety missions.

You will train clients on sUAS products, coordinate events, perform diagnostics, and travel up to 70% to client sites and training exercises. PDW offers comprehensive benefits and a competitive salary range of 130,000–150,000 USD

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in UAS field operations, maintenance and training.
• Proficiency with fixed-wing, multirotor, hybrid and FPV platforms.
• Strong knowledge of electronics, mechanical systems, and software integration.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and travel as required.

Responsibilities

• Deliver training to PDW clients on PDW sUAS products, UAS operations, mission planning, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate training events including trainer assignments, travel logistics, access to client locations, and event closeout.
• Perform routine inspections, diagnostics, and preventative maintenance on UAS platforms and equipment.
• Perform minor diagnostics and repair on sUAS hardware, electronics, and software issues.
• Up to 70% travel.
• Refine training materials (manuals, guides, presentations).
• Provide detailed training after-action reports during and after training events.

Skills

UAS operations

Maintenance

Training

Diagnostics

Equipment handling

Education

High School Diploma

Associate degree preferred

Tools

Diagnostic tools

GPS systems

Telemetry tools

Mission planning software

Job description

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. Weoperateby a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country.

What You’ll Do

• Deliver training to PDW clients on PDW sUAS products, UAS operations, mission planning, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate training events including PDW trainer assignments, travel logistics, access to client locations and ranges, daily situation reports, and event closeout.
• Perform routine inspections, diagnostics, and preventative maintenance on UAS platforms and associated equipment.
• Perform minor diagnostics and repair on sUAS hardware, electronics, and software issues.
• Up to 70% travel
• Refine training materials (manuals, guides, presentations).
• Provide detailed training after-action reports during and after training events.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (technical certifications or associate degree preferred).
• Excellent communication and instructional abilities.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in UAS field operations, maintenance, and training.
• Proficiency with various UAS platforms (fixed-wing, multirotor, hybrid, FPV).
• Strong knowledge of electronics, mechanical systems, and software integration.
• Familiarity with mission planning software, GPS systems, and telemetry tools.
• Ability to use diagnostic equipment and tools.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills and ability to work independently.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in various field conditions.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance or higher, as required.

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, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 50 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate UAS ground control stations, UAS aerial platforms and accessories, basic hand tools, and standard office equipment. Must be physically capable of CONUS and OCONUS travel.

This position is remote and may involve work in a standard office and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and will require occasional travel to domestic and international training events, exercises, and PDW headquarters and facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment.

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

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.

This position will have an annual salary and benefits. The salary range provided is a guideline rather than a fixed limit. Individual pay is determined by factors including geography, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

The pay range for this role is:

130,000 - 150,000 USD per year (Remote (United States))