UAS PILOT / Red Air Pilot/ RPV Pilot

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 UAS Red Air Pilot who will be responsible for performing operational responsibilities for COTS UAS fixed-wing and rotary platforms and supporting systems to gather intelligence for mission planning, mission sensor/payload operations, launching, remotely piloting, and recovering remote piloted ground and air vehicle systems. The UAS Red Air Pilot will be available and willing to deploy to the CENTCOM AOR for up to 6-12 months at a time rotating with other deployers.

• Responsible for the acquisition, fabrication, modification, programming, and maintenance of multi-rotor and fixed-wing COTS UAS platforms – Group 3 and Turbines, for training and test events.
• Launches and recovers the air vehicle, performs pre-flight, in flight, and post flight checks.
• Assist with vulnerability site assessments to inform analyst team about possible use of UAS.
• Coordinate with national and international intelligence agencies to develop data sharing capability, trend analysis and procedures.
• Plan, coordinate, and act as safety officer for flight operations during training and test events.
• Provide comprehensive technical red-team analysis.
• Perform all functional duties independently.
• Work and live in a small team environment.

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.

CLEARANCE:

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

EDUCATION:

• BA/BS with 0-3yrs experience; Or,
• AA/AS and 4 years of experience; Or,
• High school diploma or equivalent and 6 years of experience.

CERTIFICATION(S): 

• Must be able to obtain a Certified FAA UAS Pilot License. 
• Must be able to obtain an Amateur Radio Technician License.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience instructing large groups of low- and high-ranking personnel in a military environment.
• Experience with COTS multi-rotor and fixed-wing aircraft, to include hobbyist UAS experience.
• Demonstrated experience in pre-deployment training and knowledge exchange supporting field training exercises (FTX), Validation Exercises (VALEX), and other technical exchange events.
• Must be able to successfully complete CRC and deploy to CENTCOM theater.
• Experience with all RPV (land, air, and sea) and ability to design/fabricate with limited instructions or pre-built kits.
• Ability to research emerging RPV technologies, describe their advantages, and the impact to DoD capabilities.
• Knowledge of the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP).
• Ability to take technical RPV knowledge and inform/instruct others about the technology, capabilities and limitations, and impacts to DoD capabilities.
• Proficient in utilizing standard MS Office computer applications and intelligence related automation to support analytical efforts and product development.
• Define and carry out scenarios (in test events or training events) in which RPV technology can be utilized.
• Ability to understanding and interpret customer requirements in order to influence correct use of the RPV technology at technical exchange events or test events.
• Ability to work independently while in other locations and interacting with other organizations and military units.

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.