Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program Support

VLinc Corporation; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A veteran-owned defense contractor is seeking a Senior Subject Matter Expert to support UAS acquisition for the U.S. Coast Guard. This role involves overseeing the integration of unmanned systems on National Security Cutters and providing technical expertise throughout the acquisition lifecycle. Candidates should have significant experience in defense acquisition, UAS operations, and shipboard integration. This position offers both operational challenges and the opportunity to influence unmanned aviation development in a mission-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience supporting defense or DHS acquisition programs.
• At least 6 years of direct experience in UAS operations, integration, or platform sustainment.
• Proven understanding of USCG acquisition processes and DHS Directive 102-01.

Responsibilities

• Support all phases of the acquisition lifecycle for UAS capabilities.
• Prepare research, analysis, and acquisition documentation.
• Provide subject matter expertise on UAS integration aboard National Security Cutters (NSCs).

Skills

UAS operations

Acquisition documentation

Shipboard systems integration

Defense acquisition processes

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aviation Systems, or related field

Master's degree in Systems Engineering, Logistics, or Program Management

Tools

CG-One

DCARS

TMS

Job description

VLinc is seeking a seasoned Senior Subject Matter Expert (SME) to provide full lifecycle acquisition support for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) program under the U.S. Coast Guard's Office of Aviation Acquisition (CG-931). This individual will support the development and integration of UAS platforms for cutter and land-based operations, serving as a key on-site liaison for shipboard installations, technical oversight, and acquisition planning. The role requires both technical depth and hands-on coordination skills to assist in advancing UAS capabilities across the fleet.

Responsibilities

• Support all phases of the acquisition lifecycle (Need, Analyze/Select,, Produce/Deploy & Support) for UAS capabilities in accordance with DHS and USCG acquisition policies.
• Prepare research, analysis, and acquisition documentation, including Acquisition Program Baselines, Risk Management Plans, and Engineering Change Proposals.
• Provide subject matter expertise on UAS integration aboard National Security Cutters (NSCs), including shipboard preparation, installation, sustainment, and de-installation.
• Serve as an on-site program representative during vendor hardware installations and UAS deployments aboard cutters.
• Coordinate UAS-related training logistics and CG-One account creation for Field Support Representatives (FSRs).
• Track and manage UAS vendor deliverables, mission equipment readiness, and shipboard compatibility.
• Work with the government on cross-functional teams to resolve issues, provide strategic recommendations, and support deployment schedules.
• Develop and maintain program documentation routed through DCARS and TMS.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aviation Systems, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience supporting defense or DHS acquisition programs.
• At least 6 years of direct experience in UAS operations, integration, or platform sustainment.
• Proven understanding of USCG acquisition processes and DHS Directive 102-01.
• Experience with shipboard systems integration and contractor-owned/contractor-operated (COCO) solutions.
• Ability to write and manage acquisition documentation and provide expert recommendations during reviews.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Systems Engineering, Logistics, or Program Management.
• Prior hands-on experience supporting UAS deployments aboard NSCs or comparable maritime platforms.
• Familiarity with CG-One, DCARS, and TMS platforms.
• PMP or DAWIA Level III certification in Program Management or Engineering.

Work Environment

• Location: Primarily at USCG Headquarters (Washington, DC) with frequent travel to cutter locations and vendor installation sites.
• On-Site Requirements: On-site presence required for all shipboard installation and oversight activities.
• Telework: May be authorized for administrative tasks, but role is operationally hands-on.
• Schedule: Standard business hours with flexibility for shipboard deployments and mission requirements.

Why VLinc

At VLinc, we take pride in bringing leading-edge technical talent to the front lines of national security. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, we're deeply invested in providing smart, capable solutions that empower our clients and elevate mission outcomes. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of unmanned aviation within one of the most dynamic acquisition portfolios in the U.S. Coast Guard.