Job Summary
You will own daily operational current and future planning and mission execution, bridging military aviation (UAS) discipline with startup speed. Critical for scaling both unmanned autonomous flight operations and airframe production and autonomous ground deployments.
Responsibilities:
- Develop operational processes for testing, deployment, and manufacturing coordination
- Lead flight operations, scheduling, and resource allocation - must have prior aviation / UAS background.
- Ensure compliance with FAA and NDAA requirements for unmanned systems
- Coordinate cross-functional teams: engineering, production, logistics
- Implement operational metrics, KPIs, and continuous improvement
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate operational efficiency and implement corrective actions as needed
- Lead process improvement initiatives by analyzing workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing best practices for increased productivity.
- Manage resource allocation, including staffing, equipment, and materials, to meet project demands effectively.
- Prepare detailed reports on operational performance, project status, and strategic recommendations for senior leadership.
- Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning within the operations team
- Respond to government RFIs and preparing government tactical proposals for deployment of unmanned air and ground autonomous systems, teams, and personnel.
Required Experience:
- 5–10+ years in military aviation operations or UAV flight operations
- Experience in operational planning, scheduling, and resource management
- Knowledge of FAA regulations, flight safety, and aviation compliance
- Ability to thrive in high-paced, ambiguous environments
- A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field; advanced certifications are a plus. Join us in shaping efficient operations that propel our organization forward! We value energetic leaders who thrive on challenge and are passionate about making a meaningful impact through strategic planning and operational excellence
**Please ensure you meet these requirements if you are going to apply. This position requires prior commercial aviation and unmanned aviation experience.
Preferred:
- Former U.S. military senior officers (04, 05, & O6) with aviation tactical operational experience (former operators) that can write and respond to tactical military RFIs with detailed unmanned aviation proposals.
- Experience in startup aerospace/defense environments
- Leadership experience managing cross-functional teams
- Former U.S. military commanding officers of aviation units
- Experience in responding to RFIs and preparing government tactical proposals
Requirements:
- Proven experience in aviation / UAS planning, operations management, or a related leadership role within a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- Exceptional communication skills to effectively collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders.
- Proficiency in project management tools and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to lead change initiatives and drive process improvements.
- Secret military clearance or the ability to attain this clearance.
- Already have your FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot's license or ready to take exam at the time of your start date.
Location: This is an in-person work requirement in an office environment based in Las Vegas, Nevada - no remote work is available for this position.
Some travel to Reno, Nevada is required in the early launch of designated drone platforms and for initial training.
Pay: $90,000.00 - $105,100.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Give a specific example of operating in a high-paced, ambiguous aviation environment where plans changed rapidly. What decisions did you make in real time, and how did you maintain mission execution and safety?
- Describe a real-world aviation or UAS operation where you were responsible for planning, scheduling, and executing daily operations. Include:
Scope (team size, aircraft, tempo)
How you allocated resources (people, aircraft, time)
A major operational friction point and how you resolved it?
- Describe your direct experience ensuring compliance with FAA regulations, flight safety standards, and/or NDAA or government requirements during flight operations. What processes did you implement or enforce?
- Have you personally contributed to or led the response to a U.S. Government RFI, RFP, or operational proposal related to aviation or UAS programs? If yes, describe:
Your specific role in writing or structuring the response
The operational or technical content you contributed
The outcome (win, loss, or follow-on engagement)
Work Location: In person