UAS Operator – Flight Operations Team

UAS Operator (Group 1–3 | Field Operations)Blackrock Strategy, Inc. | Huntsville, AL • Indianapolis Metro • Clarksville/Fort Campbell Area Travel: Approximately 75% CONUS travel, with potential OCONUS assignments, supporting Government test events, operational missions, field exercises, demonstrations, and deployments. Clearance: Active Secret security clearance required. Top Secret eligibility preferred. Location Requirement: Preference for candidates near Huntsville, Alabama; Indianapolis, Indiana; or Clarksville/Fort Campbell, Tennessee/Kentucky. Must support field operations and frequent travel as mission requirements dictate. About Blackrock StrategyBlackrock Strategy, Inc. (BrS) provides engineering, operational, analytical, and technical services supporting the Department of War, Intelligence Community, and commercial customers. Our teams support test and evaluation, experimentation, systems integration, operational planning, and technology transition across national security programs. Position OverviewBlackrock Strategy is seeking an experienced UAS Operator to support testing, evaluation, and operational employment of Group 1–3 unmanned aircraft systems across dynamic mission environments. This position conducts flight operations, system configuration, troubleshooting, and field testing in support of emerging unmanned aircraft technologies. Working alongside engineers, military operators, and Government stakeholders, the UAS Operator will execute missions, evaluate system performance, and support operational demonstrations and deployments. The ideal candidate brings hands-on UAS experience, strong technical troubleshooting skills, and the adaptability to operate multiple platforms in demanding field conditions. Key ResponsibilitiesOperate Group 1–3 unmanned aircraft systems supporting testing, training, demonstrations, and operational missions. Execute missions using Mission Planner or comparable ground control software, including waypoint management, telemetry monitoring, and diagnostics. Configure, calibrate, and troubleshoot ArduPilot-based flight systems and associated equipment. Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections, checklists, and mission documentation. Troubleshoot aircraft components, RF communications, payloads, ground control stations, and supporting systems. Coordinate flight operations with engineering teams, Flight Team leadership, range personnel, and Government stakeholders. Support operational testing, technology evaluations, field exercises, and deployment activities. Document flight performance, system observations, mission results, and after-action findings. Assist with equipment preparation, system integration, and operational readiness activities. Support domestic and international field operations as required by mission objectives. Required QualificationsU.S. Citizenship and active DoD Secret security clearance or higher. Minimum 2 years of operational UAS experience in military or commercial environments. Demonstrated experience operating Group 1–3 UAS platforms. Strong knowledge of UAS flight operations, mission planning, and operational safety procedures. Ability to troubleshoot aircraft systems, communications equipment, and ground control components. Strong communication, problem-solving, and operational coordination skills. Ability to operate effectively in dynamic field, range, and deployment environments. Willingness and ability to travel approximately 75% in support of operational requirements. Preferred QualificationsPrior military UAS experience, including 15W, 7314, or comparable military occupational specialties. FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Experience with ArduPilot, Mission Planner, or similar flight control platforms. Experience supporting DoD testing, research and development, or operational evaluations. Familiarity with RF communications, EO/IR payloads, restricted airspace, or range operations. Experience with ground control systems, mobile integration environments, or UAS system configuration. Experience supporting military deployments, operational exercises, or field-testing activities. Eligibility for a Top Secret security clearance. Work EnvironmentPrimarily field-based operations at Government test ranges, military installations, and operational locations. Frequent coordination with military personnel, engineers, operational teams, and Government stakeholders. Work may involve outdoor environments, variable weather conditions, equipment handling, and extended field activities. Occasional extended hours, weekends, or surge support may be required during operational events. Approximately 75% CONUS travel, with periodic OCONUS support based on mission requirements. BenefitsCompetitive compensation 401(k) with company matching Employer-paid employee medical, dental, and vision insurance Employer-paid life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage Health Savings Account (HSA) option with employer contributions Paid time off and parental leave Tuition reimbursement and professional development support Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Referral bonus program Equal Opportunity EmployerBlackrock Strategy, Inc. is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a workplace free from discrimination. We recruit, hire, and advance qualified individuals based on merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also take affirmative action to employ and advance veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Human Resources department at 256-429-3608.