Air Operations Specialist (UAS)

TL;DR

Air Operations Specialist (UAS): Planning and executing autonomous drone operations in real-world military environments with an accent on operational deployment and integration with military units. Focus on bridging the gap between complex autonomous technology and end-users, refining tactics, and providing operator feedback for product iteration.

Location: Hybrid (San Diego)

Compensation: $130K – $155K + Equity + Bonus

Company

Leader in all-domain collaborative autonomy, creating software-defined hardware for autonomous systems across sea, air, and land to optimize mission performance.

What you will do

• Deploy to live events and exercises to operate small UAS systems and integrate with military units.
• Plan, coordinate, and brief drone operations to internal stakeholders and senior military leadership.
• Support hardware and software development through operational test events and provide real-world operator feedback to engineering.
• Translate operational needs from military customers into actionable inputs for Product teams.
• Identify operational gaps and contribute to refining tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for autonomous systems.

Requirements

• Hands-on experience with military drone systems and operational employment tactics.
• Experience planning and briefing operations for various stakeholders.
• Proficiency with open-source autopilot systems (ArduPilot, PX4) and GCS platforms (Mission Planner, QGroundControl).
• Understanding of RF fundamentals, link budget considerations, and basic electronics related to UAS.
• Willingness to travel approximately 30% of the time, including potential overseas deployments.
• Ability and willingness to obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.

Nice to have

• Active FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• Experience with autonomous or AI-enabled UAS platforms and C2 software.
• Previous experience in a defense technology startup or non-traditional military environment.
• Experience supporting operational testing or technology evaluations.

Culture & Benefits

• 100% employer-paid Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance for employees and families.
• Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2-week minimum.
• Equity package and 401k matching program.
• Work/Home Office stipend and Global Entry.
• 16-week paid parental leave and monthly health and wellness stipend.