RPA Pilot II / Deployment Pool (K)

Job Summary

Employee will be part of the Deployment Pool and will be required to support deployments to various CONUS/OCONUS locations, as required. This position will require the member to be flexible in the support of assigned deployment/work schedules. Under general supervision, this position is responsible for coordinating RPA ground and flight operations including mission planning; execution; briefing and debriefing; aircrew resource management coordination; and compliance with ground and flight safety directives and procedures. Position reports to the Aircrew Manager or Program Manager.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Remotely pilot vehicle to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability during launch-and-recovery flight operations through specifically prescribed maneuvers.
• Coordinate and actively participate in RPA ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management, and safety.
• Define, plan, organize, and execute flight plans and schedules.
• Review maintenance logs, weather reports, and forecasts.
• Use various manuals such as the Airplane Flight Manuals, Flight Crew Operating Manual, and other documents and reports to ascertain factors such as aircraft weight and balance, fuel supply, route, schedule, and mechanical reliability.
• Ensures compliance with service guidance, company policy and procedures, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company. Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Maintain a DoD Security Clearance.
• Maintain ability to travel on CONUS and OCONUS assignments.
• Perform other duties as assigned or required.

• Currently qualified as an MQ-9 Launch-and-Recovery Pilot as documented on an AF Form 8, or equivalent
• Have completed at least one of the following:
  • Prior DoD pilot training, specifically the USAF’s Undergraduate Pilot Training, or USA, USN, USMC, or USCG equivalent fixed wing training programs,
  • USAF’s Undergraduate Remotely Piloted Aircraft Training (URT), or equivalent, or
  • FAA certificate/rating (one of the following):
    • Commercial Pilot Certificate with an Airplane Category Rating and Instrument-Airplane Rating, or
    • Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with an Airplane Category Rating
• Have a minimum of 5 years of “recent” experience piloting an MQ-1/9 RPA
  • If current or previous MQ-1/9 Launch-and-Recovery Instructor Pilot, may substitute for 1 year of experience.
  • If current or previous Formal Training Unit MQ-1/9 Launch-and-Recovery Instructor Pilot, may substitute for 2 years of experience.
  • May substitute 100 hours of Launch-and-Recovery Pilot Flight Time for one year of experience (maximum 2 years).
  • May substitute 1,000 hours of Pilot Flight Time for one year of experience (maximum 2 years).
• Possess a current (within the last year) FAA Class I, FAA Class II, or DD Form 2992 medical certification.
• Meet Air Combat Command’s (ACC) requirement to be considered experienced in Launch-and-Recovery operations.
• Possess a bachelor’s degree, or education/formal training equivalent to the completion of a four-year technical degree or trade school equivalency. Equivalent professional or military experience in RPA or aviation may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of RPA and FAA principles, theories, and concepts
• Familiar with AFMAN 11-202 Vols 1, 2, & 3; AFMAN 11-2MQ-9 Vols 1, 2, & 3; ACC Ready Aircrew Program
• Able to work both independently and in a team environment
• Able to work extended hours in austere conditions
• Good analytical, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to accurately interface with all levels of employees, military and civilian customers, contractors, and aircrew
• Basic knowledge of computer operations and applications
• Able to pass Pre/Post Deployment Medical and Dental Examinations
• Able to travel on CONUS and OCONUS assignments
• Able to lift, carry and/or wear Military Issued Equipment in excess of 50 pounds for extended periods
• Able to speak, read, write, and understand English
• Able to provide proof of U.S. citizenship upon hire
• Submit updated SF-86 within 30 days of hire start date
• Have current DoD Secret Security Clearance and be able to maintain a DoD security clearance commensurate with the assigned duties during employment
• Possess current/active state-issued driver’s license
• Possess a U.S. Passport valid for a minimum of one year
• Must be fully COVID-19 vaccinated with booster. Accommodations may be available under limited circumstances.

• Current/Former MQ-9 Launch-and-Recovery Instructor Pilot (highly desired)
• Possess a U.S. Passport valid for a minimum of two years with at least two facing pairs (four total) of blank Visa pages
• FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Instrument Instructor (CFII) ratings
• RPA operations & deployment experience
• Prior experience with RPA aircrew training or scheduling
• Prior experience as a Defense Contractor
• Master’s degree in a relevant career field