Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Operator Full Time

Blackrock Strategy, Inc. (BrS) is a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) committed to offering advanced solutions to both government and commercial clients. Our expertise includes the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, private equity, high-net-worth families, and business leaders, providing customized support to address their most urgent challenges. Our goal is to deliver specialized insights that optimize resources and mitigate risks, safeguarding the interests of government bodies, companies, and individuals. We provide expert evaluations and proactive plans to promote safety, resilience, and relevance in an ever-changing environment.

At Blackrock Strategy, we prioritize investing in our team members. When you join us, you’ll have opportunities to work on impactful projects that challenge and motivate you, in an environment that appreciates your ideas and efforts. We focus on professional growth, offer competitive benefits, and cultivate a culture rooted in respect, innovation, and collaboration. Whether you are an experienced professional or just starting your career, we equip you with the tools and support you need to succeed and flourish. Become part of a company that values integrity, fosters innovation, and recognizes the unique skills everyone contributes.

The UAS Operator is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing unmanned aircraft system (UAS) flight operations supporting real-world testing, training, and operational missions. This role supports the rapid assessment, integration, and fielding of emerging unmanned technologies for U.S. warfighters. This is a hands-on, field-based, deployable role that primarily operates Group 1–3 UAS platforms in dynamic, often austere environments. The ideal candidate is proficient with Mission Planner and ArduPilot, comfortable tuning systems in the field, launching aircraft, and troubleshooting in real time. Our UAS Operators work closely with engineers, government mission leads, and range personnel to ensure safe, compliant, and effective flight operations while helping partners solve complex operational challenges.

Job Description:

• Operate unmanned aircraft systems for testing, training, and operational missions.
• Plan and carry out UAS missions with Mission Planner, managing waypoints, diagnostics, and telemetry.
• Configure, tune, and maintain ArduPilot-based flight systems, including firmware updates and calibration in the field.
• Conduct pre-mission planning, ensure airspace deconfliction, review policies, and assess risks.
• Perform checks before, during, and after flights, and document system performance and mission outcomes.
• Troubleshoot aircraft subsystems, ground control stations, RF links, and payload integrations in field settings.
• Coordinate with airspace managers, range control, engineers, and mission leaders.
• Support technology assessments, document experimental flights, and handle operational exceptions as needed.
• Maintain full deployment readiness, including extended travel within and outside the continental US (up to approximately 180 days per year).

Qualifications:

• U.S. Citizenship is required
• Active DoD SECRET or TOP SECRET clearance (with ability to receive TOP SECRET/SCI clearance)
• Minimum of 2 years of operational experience with unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in military or commercial environments
• Background in military UAS operations (e.g., 15W, 7314, or aviation-related MOS/AFSC) is a plus
• Experience supporting Department of Defense operations, including R&D, testing, or rapid fielding efforts
• Demonstrated proficiency with ArduPilot flight stacks and Mission Planner software, including mission planning, diagnostics, and telemetry
• Experience operating Group 1–3 UAS platforms
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, or the ability to obtain
• Knowledge of RF communication systems, EO/IR payloads, and mobile ground control system integration
• Experience operating in range environments or restricted airspace
• Ability to pass deployment medical screening and meet physical and travel requirements for extended CONUS and OCONUS operations
• Bachelor’s degree in a field related to unmanned systems, aviation, or advanced technology, or equivalent operational experience

Position Details

• Schedule: Full-Time
• Locations: Indianapolis Metro Region; Huntsville, AL; Clarksville / Fort Campbell Area
• Travel: Frequent travel required, including deployments to remote and austere CONUS/OCONUS locations
• Compensation: Competitive base pay, deployment bonuses, per diem, and covered travel

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and interpret English-language safety rules, operating procedures, maintenance instructions, and government regulations. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence in English.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to solve practical operational problems by defining the issue, collecting and analyzing data, establishing facts, and drawing sound conclusions using common sense and judgment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with applicable laws.

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds at times
• Regular use of vision, hearing, and verbal communication in operational environments

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This role operates across on-site, field, and remote environments, with frequent travel to operational locations and test ranges.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Valid driver’s license issued by state of residence
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or eligibility to obtain)

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Blackrock Strategy, Inc. is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prioritize a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, actively recruiting, employing, and promoting qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected class under applicable law.

Blackrock Strategy actively supports veterans and individuals with disabilities, complying with VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process may contact Human Resources at 256-429-3608.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Pay: $45.00 – $70.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operational: 2 years (Preferred)

Security clearance:

• Secret (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:

• 75% (Preferred)

Work Location: Remote