Senior Fixed-Wing UAS Operator (Contract Position)

Senior Fixed-Wing UAS Operator (Contract Position)
Senior Fixed-Wing UAS Operator

Swift Engineering is seeking a highly experienced

Senior Fixed-Wing UAS Instructor Operator

to support a fielded unmanned aircraft system (UAS) program and deliver training to an international customer.

This role is ideal for a senior operator who can step into a legacy platform environment, quickly assess system readiness, and lead safe, structured flight operations and training with minimal oversight.

The selected candidate will play a critical role in ensuring successful completion of contractual training deliverables while upholding the highest standards of flight safety and operational excellence

Key Responsibilities

Flight Operations & System Checkout

Conduct rapid familiarization with a fixed-wing, gas-powered UAS platform

Evaluate air vehicle condition, ground control systems (GCS), and operational readiness

Execute and supervise:

Pre-flight inspections

Launch operations (rail, catapult, or bungee systems)

Recovery operations (belly landing)

Troubleshoot and resolve field-level issues related to propulsion, avionics, communications, and control systems

Training Delivery (Primary Focus)

Lead training for customer operators and maintainers, including:

Mission planning and execution

Emergency procedures and contingency operations

Launch and recovery techniques

Basic maintenance and troubleshooting

Conduct live flight training evolutions and ensure safe execution

Training Program Development

Assess and refine existing training materials and documentation

Develop or update:

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Checklists and quick-reference guides

Instructor materials and training curriculum

Ensure training is structured, repeatable, and aligned with best practices

Operational Leadership

Serve as the on-site subject matter expert for flight operations and training

Provide clear recommendations on system limitations, risks, and operational improvements

Maintain strict adherence to safety protocols and operational discipline

Required Qualifications

Extensive experience operating fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)

Hands‑on experience with:

Gas-powered UAS platforms

Non-runway launch and recovery systems (catapult, rail, bungee, or equivalent)

Proven experience delivering formal training to operators and/or maintainers

Strong working knowledge of:

Autopilot systems and ground control stations (GCS)

RF/data link systems (e.g., Silvus or similar)

Ability to safely operate within legacy systems

Demonstrated sound judgment in flight safety and go
o-go decision-making

Willingness to travel internationally and operate in field environments

Preferred Qualifications

Military or defense-contractor background in UAS operations

Experience with ISR or tactical fixed-wing platforms

Background in UAS flight test combined with field operations

Experience training international or government customers

Familiarity with:

Belly-landed aircraft systems

Strong ownership mentality and ability to operate independently

Calm and decisive under pressure in live flight environments

Structured and effective instructor with strong communication skills

Practical problem‑solver with hands‑on mindset

High attention to detail and commitment to safety

Legacy platform with limited historical continuity

Documentation may be incomplete or require validation

Fast‑paced, high-visibility program with international customer engagement

Requires adaptability, initiative, and technical depth

Safe execution of all flight operations

Successful completion of customer training program

Validated and/or improved training materials and procedures

Operational recommendations for sustainment and future training

Compensation & Logistics

Competitive contract rate (commensurate with experience)

Travel, lodging, and per diem provided

Potential for extended engagement based on program needs

What We Offer

Direct impact on UAV design and performance

Close collaboration with multidisciplinary engineering teams

Opportunity to work on cutting-edge unmanned aircraft systems

Working Conditions

Indoor office environment

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship. Swift is an EOE. Must be "US Person" per ITAR qualifications.

About Swift Engineering

If you’re passionate about engineering, innovation and making a difference, we invite you to join the Swift Engineering family. Together, we are shaping the future of aerospace and creating technologies that will change the world.

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