15W UAV Operator

About the role

As an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator in the Army National Guard, you will pilot military drones (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) to gather and relay intelligence about enemy forces and battle areas for tactical operations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct air reconnaissance, surveillance, targeting, and acquisition missions
• Plan and analyze flight missions
• Perform preflight, in-flight, and post-flight checks and procedures
• Launch and recover airframe from runway
• Perform maintenance on communications equipment, power sources, light/heavy wheeled vehicles, and crane operations

Skills You’ll Learn

• Performing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance simulation missions
• Preparing maps, charts, and intelligence reports
• Analyzing aerial photographs
• Using computer systems

Helpful Skills

• Interest in remote/radio controlled vehicles
• Ability to organize information and study its meaning
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to think and write clearly

Civilian Career Opportunities

Through your training, you will develop skills and experience applicable to civilian careers with federal government agencies, including the CIA and NSA.

Training

Instead of paying to learn these skills, you will be paid to train. Job training consists of 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you'll learn basic Soldiering skills, followed by 23 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT).

Benefits

• Paid training
• Monthly paycheck
• Montgomery GI Bill
• Federal and State tuition assistance
• Retirement benefits for part-time service
• Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage)
• 401(k)-type savings plan
• Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000 for existing loans)
• Health care benefits
• VA home loans
• Bonuses, if applicable

Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change.

Requirements

• Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
• Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate
• Must be between the ages of 17 and 35
• Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards
• Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details)

Programs and benefits are subject to change. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability.