Chief Pilot sUAS

Job LocationsUS-CA-Silicon Valley

2025-4730

Type

Full-Time

Clearance

Secret Preferred

Overview

Serve as Chief Pilot, small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) responsible for all aspects of sUAS operations, training, and management at NASA Ames Research Center. Oversee small team in execution of flight operations efforts, including mission planning, execution, briefing and debriefing, aircrew resource management, and ground/flight safety.  This position is contingent on contract award.

Pay Range: $190,000 - $210,000

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.

Responsibilities

Conducting sUAS flight operations in accordance with FAA, NASA, and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
Developing and implementing sUAS training program (indoor and outdoor).
Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Aviation Operations Division policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency procedures, Knowledge of aircraft systems and limitations, and ATC regulations / procedures.
Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training meetings and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
Tracking and renewing existing airspace authorizations and writing/pursuing Certificates of Authorization (COA) with the FAA to allow flight in the National Airspace System (NAS).
Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
Conduct site surveys of intended deployment locations both CONUS and OCONUS.
Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed.
Candidate must also complete periodic training (as applicable) for currency.
Candidate will provide NASA training and qualification checks for aircrew, including both initial and periodic training.
Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education/Experience

Bachelor’s degree required. Additional experience may substitute for degree.
16 or more years of experience required.
Must possess FAA CFR 14 Part 107 rating.
FAA commercial pilot license with instrument rating, ATP, or a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services desired.
Flight test experience/aviation instruction experience desired.
Multi-rotor experience highly desired.
Experience working Certificates of Authorizations (COAs) with the FAA highly desired
Logbook and/or flight records verifying flight time minimum of 500 hours of remote pilot in command (PIC).
Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment.
Formal military training in expected duties or applicable civilian experience.
Must meet the security requirements of the position.
Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
Must be able to pass random drug screenings.
Must be able to obtain a DoD secret security clearance.
U.S. Citizenship is required.

Knowledge/Skills

Ability to read and comprehend technical and safety manuals, instructions, procedures, memos, and reports.
Ability to write at a level to relay data, details, and information.
Ability to perform shop math.
Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
Knowledge of office administration and procedures.
Exceptional judgment capabilities and relationship management skills.
Excellent communication, teamwork, and client service skills; ability to clearly communicate in discussions and written documents, and to deliver feedback clearly and tactfully.
Interact with a diverse array of customers and staff in a professional and courteous manner.
Work independently with accountability for accurate and complete results.
Be extremely organized and exceptionally detail oriented.
Work well both independently and in a team environment.
Be energized by a fast-paced work environment.
Must be able to communicate with others effectively.
Analyze information and respond appropriately.
Manage time wisely and prioritize tasks.
Provide superior customer service. 
Multi-task in a pleasant manner.
Work well under pressure.

Physical Demands

Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
Flight line working conditions: May be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels.
Regular i3 hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday however, Customer may dictate alternate schedule. Additional hours may be required on occasion. Regular and punctual on-site attendance is required.

About i3

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

Long-term financial security
Higher job satisfaction
Greater job security
Personal and professional growth
Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

Excellent insurance coverage
401(k) match
Generous PTO
Health and wellness incentives
Tuition and certification reimbursement
Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!