External Pilot Group III Offensive Strike UAS

Griffon Aerospace is a trusted aerospace solutions provider based in Madison, Alabama, specializing in the design, development, and operation of advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Since 1995, we have delivered over 12,000 unmanned air vehicles to the Department of Defense, allied nations, and commercial customers. We pride ourselves on being a lion-hearted partner, designing, building, and flying the most capable and intelligent aerial systems that give our servicemen an unfair advantage wherever they fly.Position SummaryWe are currently seeking an experienced External Pilot to join our flight test and training team for our Group 3 UAS program supporting U.S. Army requirements.The External Pilot will be responsible for manually controlling the aircraft during critical flight phases including takeoff, cruise, 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 ResponsibilitiesServe as External Pilot for a 250+ pound unmanned aircraft systemManually control the aircraft during critical phases of flight including takeoff, cruise, landing, and emergency situationsWork collaboratively with Internal Pilots, Mission Commanders, and Ground Control Station operatorsParticipate in pre-flight briefings and post-flight debriefingsAssist in developing flight test plans and proceduresProvide input for aircraft control system modifications and improvementsPerform troubleshooting procedures and aircraft modificationsPerform aircraft maintenance procedures and repairs to maintain UAS readinessSupport field operations in various environments, both domestic and potentially overseasEnsure compliance with all regulations, safety protocols and operational proceduresParticipate in training new pilots as requiredDocument and report flight performance, anomalies, and system issuesAssist in the development of UAS standard operating proceduresAssist in the development of UAS flight procedures and checklistAssist in the development of UAS maintenance procedures and checklistAssist in the development of UAS flight training programRequired QualificationsMinimum 3 years of experience as an External Pilot for Group 3 or larger UAS (aircraft weighing 250+ pounds)Demonstrated advanced proficiency manually flying aircraft via hand controller/radio transmitterExperience with fixed-wing platformsUnderstanding of aerodynamics, flight control systems, and UAS operationsAbility to maintain precise aircraft control in various weather conditionsExcellent communication skills and ability to function effectively as part of a teamValid driver's license and ability to travel to test sitesAbility to obtain and maintain DOT medical certificatePhysical ability to maintain visual line of sight with aircraft during operationsFAA Class II medical certificate, or ability to qualifyS. Passport or ability to obtainPreferred QualificationsExperience with military UAS programs, particularly Army aviation systemsBackground in flight testing or developmental aircraft programsExperience tuning autopilot flight controlsKnowledge of Army aviation procedures and tactical operationsKnowledge of FAA rules and proceduresPrior military aviation experienceExperience with simulator training systemsMechanical or electrical troubleshooting skillsPhysical RequirementsVisual acuity sufficient to maintain visual contact with aircraft at extended distancesAbility to stand for extended periods during flight operationsCapability to work in various outdoor environments and weather conditionsAbility to lift and carry up to 50 pounds of equipmentWork EnvironmentCombination of office, laboratory, and field environmentsTravel to test sites and customer locations as requiredPotential for deployment to military installations domestically and overseasMay include working in challenging weather conditions and environmentsClearance Requirements* Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance required* U.S. citizenship requiredTravel Requirements30-50% travel to test sites, customer locations, and potential deployment locations