Test Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Job Description

MAAP is seeking qualified applicants with experience in flight operations disciplines relevant to uncrewed/autonomous systems to serve as a supporting pilot and operations specialist of uncrewed aerial system (UAS). Successful applicants will be able to support a diverse array of tasks related to UAS research, with preference given to candidates that have both uncrewed aircraft pilot experience as well as experience operating counter UAS systems.
The UAS Test Site Research Operator must be a self-motivated team player that can take on and effectively execute a broad set of tasks.
The position may receive tasking from the flight operations and engineering team leads and will report to the MAAP Chief of Flight Operations. The incumbent is expected to exercise sound decision making and problem-solving skills while interacting with internal and external Test Site users and partners. The incumbent should be able to independently and effectively manage UAS field operations in diverse field environments. This position will be expected to lift, carry, move, load/unload equipment and field supplies of up to 25 pounds; possess a safe driving record to drive a government vehicle, ability to work outside in environmental conditions for up to 10 hours, as well as the ability to walk minimum 2 miles and traverse uneven terrain. This position also involves fine manipulation of UAS equipment and parts.
Additional duties that may be assigned to the incumbent (depending upon qualifications) include:
Operates in various UAS crewmember roles including Pilot in Command (PIC), Visual Observer (VO), and Aviation Safety Officer (ASO) in the execution of field studies as dictated by the experiment.
Develops, manages, and complies with FAA Certificates of Authorization (COA)
Provides input to aeronautical research test planning
Assists in MAAP Safety Risk Management (SRM) processes
Facilitates crew certification and training support
Assists in flight operations scheduling
Conducts preventative maintenance and basic modifications to MAAP UAS assets
Prepares for, performs, and supervises ground and flight operations in accordance with all applicable regulations, both independently and with others
Inspects, sets up, and loads equipment for operational deployment and outreach events.
Transports equipment to operation locations and outreach events. Operations and events may be local or require travel and include occasional evening and weekend work.
Coordinates with flight operations departments of Test Site users and external partners
Schedules flight and logistics planning for internal and external operations
Conducts permission planning, evaluations and briefings
Reconciles post mission requirements, reports and logging
Contributes to MAAP safety, technical, and operations documentation
Provides input to initial and continued UAS airworthiness assessments
Instructs Test Site users on UAS platforms and regulations
Facilitates outreach events for Test Site partners; some events outside of normal work hours.
Regular coordination with internal program managers, operations team, and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

Master's degree in Uncrewed (or Unmanned) Aircraft Systems, aviation, or closely related field. An exception may be made for individuals with a Bachelor's degree in the above field of study who have significant relevant experience.
Experience with piloting autonomous and/or uncrewed aircraft
FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107)
Good communication skills
Ability to lift and move items (25 lbs or more), operate independently, work outside in the elements, and traverse uneven terrain with considerable walking, standing, stooping and bending for long-periods of time
Applicant must have a valid drivers license
Due to restrictions from the funding agency, candidates must be a US Citizen

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with or within the Department of Defense
Experience with designing and building UAS
Experience working with Ardupilot, Arducopter and/or PX4 software
Proficient remote pilot and/or manual fixed wing RC flying skills
Experience in public and civil UAS applications
Experience in test planning, flight test, and/or conducting research

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

65,172 - 97,758

Hours per week

40

Review Date

June 26, 2026

Additional Information

Due to restrictions from the funding agency, candidates must be a U.S. citizen.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

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