Air Vehicle Operator 3 (Tampa)

Aevex • Tampa, FL

1d

About The Position

AEVEX Aerospace is looking for an air vehicle operator to perform flight operations, testing, training, demonstrations, and maintenance in CONUS and OCONUS environments depending on customer requirements. This skilled external pilot will have proven experience operating Group 3+ VTOL unmanned aircraft systems in military flight test and operational environments. Expert in manual Radio Control flight operations—including takeoff, landing, and emergency recovery—ensuring safe and precise control of UAS platforms. Adept at supporting developmental testing, working collaboratively with flight test teams, and responding swiftly under pressure.

Requirements

• Proficient in manual control of multi-rotor, fixed-wing, and hybrid VTOL aircraft
• Strong understanding of UAS flight control systems, aerodynamics, and recovery operations
• Familiar with military UAS operations and FAA regulatory frameworks
• In-depth working knowledge of telemetry radios, command-and-control systems, and handheld transmitters used in UAS operations.
• Familiarity with software tools for flight planning, data analysis, and mission management.
• Capable of operating in austere field environments while maintaining VLOS and situational awareness
• Ability to maintain a Class II flight physical.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to safety.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in dynamic and challenging environments.
• HS/GED minimum
• FAA Class II Medical (or ability to obtain)
• FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) or equivalent certification from relevant aviation authority.
• Valid U.S. Driver’s License and Passport
• 300 hours as Pilot in Command (Unmanned).
• 8+ years of relevant experience with demonstrated knowledge of UAS flight systems and operations; experience supporting large-scale developmental UAS programs is preferred.
• Ability to obtain/maintain a Secret DoD clearance, U.S. Citizenship required.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's Degree preferred
• 5+ years of relevant experience with a Bachelors Degree
• 4+ years of relevant experience with a Master's Degree
• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience with ArduPilot, including at least 6 months supporting Group 3 fixed-wing platforms.
• Demonstrated experience operating Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 fixed-wing UAS.
• Proven experience conducting beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flight operations using open- source ground control software, including Mission Planner, QGroundControl, and BetaFlight.
• Demonstrated experience working with both gas and electric propulsion systems, including setup, operation, and basic troubleshooting.
• Proven professional briefing experience with both internal stakeholders and external customers.
• Demonstrated professional experience working with or in support of the U.S. Department of State (DoS), U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), or other government contracting agencies.
• Experienced in developmental flight testing, simulator-based instruction, and iterative system testing

Responsibilities

• Operate as External Pilot for electric-hybrid VTOL UAS platforms exceeding 250 lbs in both test and operational missions
• Manually control aircraft via radio transmitter during launch, recovery, and emergency procedures
• Coordinate seamlessly with Internal Pilots, Mission Commanders, and GCS Operators for safe and effective mission execution
• Contribute to pre-flight briefings, post-flight debriefings, and overall flight test planning
• Assist in the development of test cards, flight procedures, and enhancements to flight control systems
• Observe, document, and help resolve flight anomalies and system irregularities
• Adhere to stringent safety protocols, mission SOPs, and applicable airspace regulations
• Deploy to both CONUS and OCONUS test sites in support of dynamic and high-priority mission requirements
• Mentor and train new UAS pilots to enhance team capability and mission readiness
• Log performance data and flight notes to support engineering analysis and continuous improvement
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Regular and reliable attendance on a full time basis [or in accordance with posted schedule]
• Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices
• Embodies AEVEX’s cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and company culture

Benefits

• AEVEX provides a full suite of comprehensive benefits, including a 401(k)-retirement plan, comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance group coverage with a portion of the premiums paid by the company, professional development funds, and an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) with counseling, legal help, child and elder care support, among other benefits for qualified employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED