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Suas Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility ... What You'll Do * Conduct flight operations for PDW sUAS in support of test, evaluation, and ...

... sUAS). Principal Duties and Responsibilities (*Essential functions) · Participates in rapid ... operating within a DoD environment · Familiarity with mechanical systems and parts compliance ...

... sUAS). Principal Duties and Responsibilities (*Essential functions) • Participates in rapid ... operating within a DoD environment • Familiarity with mechanical systems and parts compliance ...

Lead Hardware Engineer - sUAS

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$115K - $151K/yr

COLSA Corporation is seeking a Lead Hardware Engineer with sUAS experience to support our Uncrewed ... Ability to create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and engineering documentation.

Lead Hardware Engineer - sUAS

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$121K - $160K/yr

COLSA Corporation is seeking a Lead Hardware Engineer with sUAS experience to support our Uncrewed ... Ability to create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and engineering documentation.

Basic Qualifications • Certified SUAS Master Trainer or UAS Instructor Operator • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. • Must be able to support a work schedule offsite at ...

Basic Qualifications • Certified SUAS Master Trainer or UAS Instructor Operator • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. • Must be able to support a work schedule offsite at ...

Basic Qualifications • Certified SUAS Master Trainer or UAS Instructor Operator • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. • Must be able to support a work schedule offsite at ...

Serve as subject matter experts and certified sUAS Master Trainers for supported platforms. Support training for operators, maintainers, instructors, and support personnel across multiple mission ...

Basic Qualifications • Certified SUAS Master Trainer or UAS Instructor Operator • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. • Must be able to support a work schedule offsite at ...

Serve as subject matter experts and certified sUAS Master Trainers for supported platforms. Support training for operators, maintainers, instructors, and support personnel across multiple mission ...

Basic Qualifications • Certified SUAS Master Trainer or UAS Instructor Operator • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. • Must be able to support a work schedule offsite at ...

Serve as subject matter experts and certified sUAS Master Trainers for supported platforms. Support training for operators, maintainers, instructors, and support personnel across multiple mission ...

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Suas Operator information

What does a UAS operator do?

A UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) operator is responsible for flying and controlling drones for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspection, or surveillance. They operate remote control systems, monitor drone performance, and ensure safety and compliance with regulations, often requiring certification and technical skills. UAS operators may work in industries like agriculture, construction, or media, often following specific operational protocols and safety procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a SUAS (Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a SUAS Operator, you need strong technical knowledge of drone systems, aviation regulations, and flight operations, typically supported by an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Familiarity with drone flight software, GPS navigation, mapping tools, and maintenance procedures is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators manage missions and respond to unexpected challenges. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operation of drones for various commercial, industrial, or defense applications.

How much do unmanned aircraft systems make?

Suas operators, who control unmanned aircraft systems, typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of the systems operated and the employer's location and requirements.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Jobs that can pay $500,000 or more annually in the US typically include high-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as successful entrepreneurs, top-tier surgeons, and certain specialized professionals like investment bankers and hedge fund managers. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and significant responsibility, with compensation often including bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing.

What is the highest paying drone job?

The highest paying drone jobs typically involve specialized roles such as drone pilot for aerial cinematography, infrastructure inspection, or military applications, with salaries reaching over $100,000 annually for experienced professionals. These roles often require advanced certifications, technical skills, and the ability to operate high-end drone equipment in complex environments.

What is the difference between Suas Operator vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectSuas OperatorWarehouse Associate
Required CredentialsBasic certifications, safety trainingBasic certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor settingsWarehouses, storage facilities
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure projectsLogistics, retail, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Suas Operators and Warehouse Associates both require safety training and basic certifications. Suas Operators typically work on construction sites and outdoor environments, focusing on operating aerial work platforms. Warehouse Associates work indoors in storage facilities, handling inventory and shipping tasks. While their roles differ in environment and specific duties, both are essential in their respective industries and often compared by job seekers seeking similar operational roles.

What are SUAS Operators?

SUAS Operators are professionals trained to operate Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS), commonly known as drones, for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspection, and surveillance. They are responsible for planning missions, ensuring safety compliance, conducting pre-flight checks, and operating the drone during missions. SUAS Operators may work in industries like agriculture, construction, public safety, and environmental monitoring, and must often obtain specific certifications or licenses depending on local regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by SUAS Operators in the field, and how can they be addressed?

SUAS Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, technical malfunctions, and strict regulatory compliance requirements. Adapting to rapidly changing environments and ensuring safe operation in proximity to people or sensitive areas can also be demanding. To address these issues, operators should stay up-to-date with training, conduct thorough pre-flight checks, and maintain clear communication with their team and relevant authorities. Proactive planning and continuous learning are key to overcoming these operational challenges.
What are popular job titles related to Suas Operator jobs in Alabama? For Suas Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Suas Operator jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Suas Operator jobs in Alabama are:
Infographic showing various Suas Operator job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
sUAS Pilot

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


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. We operate by 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
  • Conduct flight operations for PDW sUAS in support of test, evaluation, and development activities.
  • Execute flight acceptance tests for production aircraft and associated equipment to verify system performance, quality, and readiness.
  • Perform regression testing of hardware, software and configuration changes to confirm expected aircraft behavior.
  • Support testing of new features, payload integrations, and emerging capabilities through structured flight test events.
  • Fly prototype and early-development aircraft to help engineering evaluate new designs, controls, and system behavior.
  • Develop deep technical understanding of PDW aircraft, payloads, subsystems, and normal flight characteristics to serve as a system expert to identify system anomalies that may not be immediately apparent during typical operations.
  • Document flight results, discrepancies, failures, and observed issues in a clear, complete, and actionable manner.
  • Conduct flight demonstrations for PDW customers
  • Strictly follow all flight safety procedures, range/test site protocols, and operational risk controls during ground and flight operations.
  • Make sound go/no-go and in-flight risk decisions to protect personnel, equipment, test assets, and company interests.

Requirements
  • 3+ years of experience in operating and maintaining sUAS systems
  • Associate's in engineering, Engineering Technology or equivalent work experience in a related field
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documentation including, in-depth test plans and assembly instructions
  • Experience supporting flight test, developmental test, or validation activities for new unmanned aircraft systems or payloads.
  • Familiarity with logging tools, test documentation systems, issue tracking, or basic troubleshooting workflows in an engineering environment.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documentation including, in-depth test plans.
  • Has or in process of obtaining FAA Part 107 certification
  • Excellent written and oral communications skills

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 standard office equipment as well as remote control systems, ground support equipment, and sUAS hardware. Must be physically capable of conducting field-based flight operations, setting up flight equipment in various terrains, handling and assembling sUAS components, and operating in outdoor conditions for extended periods.
Work Environment
This position operates in a combination of standard office, lab, and outdoor field environments. This role requires use of standard office equipment and involves regular exposure to drone systems, ground control stations, diagnostic tools, and potentially hazardous materials such as lithium polymer batteries. The position requires frequent travel to flight test sites, customer locations, and supplier facilities. Work may be conducted in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions and non-climate-controlled settings, and may include exposure to noise, dust, and uneven terrain. Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required depending on the testing environment. This is a fast-paced work environment requiring cross-functional collaboration, self-direction, and team-based responsibilities. Standard work hours for this position are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with occasional evenings, weekends, and travel required based on operational demands.
ITAR Requirement
In compliance with International Traffic 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).
Benefits
  • 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.
  • Paid Parental Leave.
  • A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
  • On-site gym
  • Employer provided life insurance.
  • Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
  • 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.