Turbine Powered UAV Pilot

Overview

Darkblade Systems is a trusted provider of specialized capabilities to priority programs within the defense and intelligence communities, delivering scientific, engineering, technical, operational support and training services. Formed in 2010, Darkblade Systems strives to be a business that puts people first: clients, colleagues, employees, and teammates. Our cleared personnel are experts in the operationalization and deployment of new and emerging technologies.

We are seeking a highly skilled and certified Turbine Powered UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Pilot to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience operating turbine-powered drones in both controlled and complex environments. As a UAV Pilot, you will be responsible for ensuring safe and efficient operation of UAV systems, performing pre-flight and post-flight inspections, and maintaining communication with the control team during missions.

Responsibilities

• Operate Group 3 turbine-powered UAVs in various environments for various mission-specific tasks.
• Conduct pre-flight inspections, ensuring all systems are fully functional, and troubleshooting any technical issues that may arise before, during, or after flight.
• Ensure compliance with relevant aviation regulations, safety procedures, and company policies.
• Monitor real-time flight data, ensuring the UAV remains within the designated flight parameters and making necessary adjustments when required.
• Collaborate with ground control teams and assist in mission planning, execution, and post-flight debriefing.
• Maintain accurate flight logs and reports, including details on flight duration, fuel consumption, and any operational anomalies.
• Manage and operate UAV-related equipment, including communication systems and payloads.
• Ensure all required certifications and licenses are up to date and adhere to relevant aviation and UAV industry standards.
• Fly and operate smaller Group 1 and Group 2 fixed-wing UAVs and rotor-wing aircraft, ensuring smooth and safe execution of missions across a variety of aircraft types.

OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS:

• When not traveling, this position operates on a standard 8 hour schedule Monday - Friday with expectations of reporting onsite at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD. 

TRAVEL:

• The position requires CONUS and OCONUS travel to include rotational deployments of up to six months. 
• Travel CONUS and OCONUS (to possible conflict areas) on short notice to disseminate relevant threat information.

Qualifications

CLEARANCE:

• Active Secret clearance at the time of application with ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.  

EDUCATION:

• MA/MS degree with three (3) yrs experience.
• BA/BS with four (4) yrs experience.
• AA/AS with five (5) years of experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent with seven (7) years of experience.

CERTIFICATION(S): 

• Must possess or be able to obtain a Certified FAA UAS Pilot License (FAA Part 107). 
• Turbine UAV Specific Training: Completion of specialized turbine UAV pilot training programs or certification courses.
• Aviation Medical Certificate: A valid medical certificate, preferably FAA Class 2 or equivalent.
• Radio Communication License: Must hold a valid radio operator’s license (if applicable).

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Flight Logs: Must be able to provide detailed flight logs from previous UAV operations, demonstrating experience and proficiency in piloting turbine-powered and other UAV systems.
• Relevant UAV Training: Completion of UAV flight training that includes turbine-powered systems or similar high-performance UAV platforms.
• Radio Communication License: Must hold a valid radio operator’s license (if applicable).
• Safety Training: Current knowledge and experience with UAV safety protocols and emergency procedures.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience operating turbine-powered UAVs in commercial or military operations.
• Knowledge of UAV mission planning software and flight management systems.
• Experience in post-processing and analyzing collected data (e.g., imagery, videos, inspection data).
• Previous experience in a similar UAV pilot role, including both manual and automated flight operations.
• Skilled in operating Group 1 and Group 2 fixed-wing UAVs, as well as multi-rotor aircraft, ensuring efficient and safe flight operations across a variety of mission profiles.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

• Exceptional attention to detail with a focus on safety and operational accuracy.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot UAV systems in the field.
• Ability to work independently or in a team, especially in high-pressure or complex situations.
• Proficiency with UAV ground control stations and mission planning tools.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for interacting with team members and clients.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and move equipment as needed, with potential weight requirements for UAVs and ground control systems.

Benefits

WHAT WE OFFER:

At CIS Secure and its associated companies, Intrepid Solutions and Services and Darkblade Systems, we believe in promoting fair and transparent pay practices. We are committed to disclosing the compensation range for transparency and to set clear expectations for all applicants for this posting. This range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base salary for the advertised job, promotion, or transfer opportunity. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. The actual salary offered may vary based on various factors including but not limited to relevant experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, education, geographic location, as well as internal equity, and alignment to market data.Job Type: Full-time (onsite)

Pay Range: $90,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) with company matching
• Dental insurance
• Medical insurance
• Health Savings Account option
• Flexible Spending
• Vision insurance
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Ancillary offerings (Hospital Indemnity, Accident, Critical Illness, Pet Insurance)
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday pay

Darkblade Systems, a CIS Secure company, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Salary : $90,000 - $130,000