External Pilot - VTOL Electric-Hybrid Group 3 UAS

Griffon Aerospace is a leader in the development and operation of advanced unmanned aircraft systems for military applications. We are currently seeking an experienced External Pilot to join our flight test team for our VTOL hybrid electric Group 3 UAS program supporting Department of Defense requirements.The External Pilot will be responsible for manually controlling the aircraft during critical flight phases including takeoff, landing, and emergency procedures using a hand controller/radio transmitter. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with large UAS platforms and demonstrate exceptional situational awareness, precision control skills, and the ability to perform under pressure in a military flight test environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as External Pilot for a 250+ pound VTOL electric-hybrid unmanned aircraft system
• Manually control the aircraft during critical phases of flight including takeoff, landing, and emergency situations
• Work collaboratively with Internal Pilots, Mission Commanders, and Ground Control Station operators
• Participate in pre-flight briefings and post-flight debriefings
• Assist in developing flight test plans and procedures
• Provide input for aircraft control system modifications and improvements
• Support field operations in various environments, both domestic and potentially overseas
• Ensure compliance with all safety protocols and operational procedures
• Participate in training new pilots as required
• Document and report flight performance, anomalies, and system issues

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 3 years of experience as an External Pilot for Group 3 or larger UAS (aircraft weighing 250+ pounds)
• Demonstrated proficiency manually flying VTOL aircraft via hand controller/radio transmitter
• Experience with multi-rotor, fixed-wing, or hybrid VTOL platforms
• Understanding of aerodynamics, flight control systems, and UAS operations
• Ability to maintain precise aircraft control in various weather conditions
• Excellent communication skills and ability to function effectively as part of a team
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to test sites
• Ability to obtain and maintain appropriate security clearance
• Physical ability to maintain visual line of sight with aircraft during operations

• FAA Class II medical certificate, or ability to qualify
• S. Passport or ability to obtain

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with military UAS programs, particularly Army or Navy aviation systems
• Background in flight testing or developmental aircraft programs
• Experience with hybrid electric propulsion systems
• Knowledge of Army and Navy aviation procedures and tactical operations
• Knowledge of FAA rules and procedures
• Prior military aviation experience
• Experience with simulator training systems
• Mechanical or electrical troubleshooting skills

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Visual acuity sufficient to maintain visual contact with aircraft at extended distances
• Ability to stand for extended periods during flight operations
• Capability to work in various outdoor environments and weather conditions
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds of equipment

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Combination of office, laboratory, and field environments
• Travel to test sites and customer locations as required
• Potential for deployment to military installations domestically and overseas
• May include working in challenging weather conditions and environments

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

30-50% travel to test sites, customer locations, and potential deployment locations

JOB LOCATION

• Madison, Alabama, United States with travel

POSITION TYPE

• Full-Time/Regular

COMPENSATION/BENEFITS

• Competitive Salary/Comprehensive Benefits Package

US CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED

• Yes

ABILITY TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN A U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITY CLEARANCE

• Yes