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Global Hawk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Global Hawk Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Overview i3 is searching for a Global Hawk Pilot to join our team at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC)! Responsible for planning and execution of ground and flight operations of NASA RQ-4 ...

Overview i3 is searching for a Global Hawk Pilot to join our team at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC)! Responsible for planning and execution of ground and flight operations of NASA RQ-4 ...

Global Hawk Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

i3 is searching for a Global Hawk Pilot to join our team at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC)! Responsible for planning and execution of ground and flight operations of NASA RQ-4 Global ...

Experience supporting MQ-1 Predator, MQ-1C Gray Eagle, MQ-9 Reaper, RQ-4 Global Hawk, or similar airborne and tactical communication platforms. * Experience supporting the full systems engineering ...

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Global Hawk information

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$62K

$125.5K

$326K

How much do global hawk jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for global hawk in the United States is $125,543.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $137,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Global Hawk?

A Global Hawk job typically involves working with the RQ-4 Global Hawk, a high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). Roles can include operations, maintenance, engineering, logistics, and data analysis. Common employers include defense contractors, military organizations, and aerospace companies. Responsibilities vary but often involve mission planning, system troubleshooting, or payload integration. These positions require specialized training, security clearances, and experience in aerospace or defense industries.

What are some typical challenges a Global Hawk UAV operator faces on the job?

Global Hawk UAV Operators often encounter demanding situations such as long-duration missions that require sustained concentration and real-time problem-solving. These roles commonly involve working in secure, high-stakes environments where rapid decision-making and adherence to strict protocols are essential. Operators may also need to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including intelligence analysts and mission planners, to ensure the success of each flight. Adapting to evolving technologies and maintaining compliance with changing regulations can also be part of the daily workflow, making ongoing training and flexibility key benefits for those in this career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Global Hawk position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Global Hawk UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Operator, candidates typically need experience in aerospace operations, strong attention to detail, and specialized training, often including military or civilian certifications in drone piloting. Familiarity with ground control stations, real-time data analysis systems, and adherence to flight safety protocols are essential technical requirements. Critical-thinking, effective communication, and the ability to perform under pressure are valuable soft skills that help operators make informed decisions in dynamic environments. These skills are crucial to ensuring mission success, operational efficiency, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

More about Global Hawk jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Global Hawk jobs?

The most popular types of Global Hawk jobs are:

What states have the most Global Hawk jobs?

States with the most job openings for Global Hawk jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Global Hawk jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Global Hawk jobs are:

Infographic showing various Global Hawk job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,543 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Global Hawk Pilot (Edwards)

Integration Innovation, Inc.

Edwards, CA • On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Global Hawk Pilot – Overview

i3 is searching for a Global Hawk Pilot to join our team at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC). The role involves planning and execution of ground and flight operations of NASA RQ-4 Global Hawks as Pilot in Command and, if qualified, Instructor. Responsibilities include developing procedures for aircraft modifications, participating in the creation of operational, training, and safety procedures, conducting ground and flight tests of modified aircraft, ensuring compliance with NASA regulations, company policy, and FAA regulations, and coordinating Certificates of Authorization (COA) with the FAA. The Pilot will be involved in all aspects of flight operations, including crew resource management, mission planning, briefings and debriefings, lessons learned, and safety execution. Deployment to Edwards Air Force Base in California is required, with routine CONUS and OCONUS operations and travel.

Pay

Pay Range: $170,000–$190,000. The pay range is a general guideline and may vary based on responsibilities, education, experience, location, and other factors.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree plus 7 years of aviation experience.
  • Experience as a flight operations crew member.
  • FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Airplane Single Engine Land privileges and Instrument Rating.
  • Minimum 500 flight hours as Pilot in Command.
  • Current Class II or higher FAA medical certificate.
  • U.S. Citizenship.
Security Clearance
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance for this position.
Preferred Qualifications
  • BS Degree in STEM.
  • Military flight experience.
  • RQ-4 Global Hawk experience.
  • Flight test experience, multi‑engine rating, ATP, crew aircraft experience, aviation instructor experience.
  • Experience working with Certificates of Authorizations (COAs) with the FAA.
Knowledge / Skills
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals, procedures, and safety instructions.
  • Strong written communication skills.
  • Ability to perform shop math.
  • Clear verbal communication.
  • Office administration knowledge.
  • Exceptional judgment and relationship‑management skills.
  • Excellent teamwork and customer‑service skills.
  • Professional interaction with diverse customers and staff.
  • Independent, accountable work style.
  • Highly organized and detail‑oriented.
  • Adaptable to fast‑paced environments.
  • Effective communication with others.
  • Analytical thinking.
  • Time‑management and prioritization.
  • Superior customer service.
  • Multi‑tasking with composure.
  • Resilience under pressure.
Physical Demands
  • Light to medium physical work, including lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, stooping, crouching, and manual dexterity.
  • Ability to work in deployed environments with inclement weather and confined spaces.
  • Good vision, hearing, and perception.
  • Office conditions with moderate noise; requires computer work and occasional standing or walking.
  • Flight line conditions include day or night operation, high noise, long missions (up to 10 hours), and altitude risks.
  • Regular work hours 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Monday–Friday, though additional hours may be required.
Benefits

Perks of being a team member owner include long‑term financial security, higher job satisfaction, greater job security, personal and professional growth, and a great company culture.

Additional benefits include excellent insurance coverage, 401(k) match, generous PTO, health and wellness incentives, tuition and certification reimbursement, and opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares.

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard.
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