UAS Operational Pilot & Instructor

Overview

At Firestorm Labs, we're shaping the future of autonomous systems for national security. As a UAS Operational Pilot & Instructor, you'll be a key member of our team—executing live demonstrations and field exercises, instructing military, civilian and international users. You'll also develop next-generation UAS tactics, techniques and procedures that drive the integration of cutting-edge UAS capabilities. This is a hands-on, dual-role position that blends operational flying with technical training and field-level product feedback. Supporting critical flight missions, delivering high-impact training, and enabling tactical integration across diverse operational environments. You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with engineering, product and front-line operators, to ensure mission-ready standards, and safe, effective and repeatable UAS operations. Your work will directly shape how advanced drone technology is deployed and scaled. There will be operational flight demonstrations and exercises at both CONUS and OCONUS locations that will require travel to support.

What You'll Do

• Execute UAS flight missions in support of R&D, demos, customer engagements, exercises and operational deployments
• Operate Group 1–3 UAS in tactical, test, and field environments—including austere or remote locations
• Conduct mission planning, airspace deconfliction, and operational risk management (ORM)
• Lead hands-on instruction in areas such as UAS mission planning, execution, emergency procedures, and modular payload integration
• Train US and International operators to meet mission readiness standards
• Teach safe Group 1-3 operations and aeronautical decision-making principles tailored to dynamic flight environments
• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, internal safety protocols, and risk mitigation procedures
• Serve as a subject matter expert for Group 1-3 UAS operational use cases, test and evaluation, supporting product integration with end-users
• Collaborate with engineering and senior leadership to inform UAS development, system improvements, and operational capabilities
• Support the creation of training syllabi, courseware, and mission brief materials to standardize instruction across teams
• Develop training content, after-action reviews (AARs), and technical documentation
• Lead structured post-flight debriefs to capture lessons learned and inform future mission planning
• Provide operational feedback to engineering and product teams to drive system improvements

Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Work Environment

Compensation

US Salary Range : $90,000 - $120,000 USD. The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.

Benefits & Perks

Export Control Compliance

To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.

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