15W UAV Operator

About the role

Military drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are used in the field to gather intelligence for tactical operations. As an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator in the Army National Guard, you will be responsible for piloting these drones, and using your skills to gather and relay information about enemy forces and battle areas to your crews.

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 will learn skills such as performing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance simulation missions, preparing maps, charts, and intelligence reports, analyzing aerial photographs, and using computer systems. Helpful skills include interest in remote/radio controlled vehicles, ability to organize information and study its meaning, ability to think and write clearly, and strong attention to detail.

Qualifications

• 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

Benefits

• Paid training
• A 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 available
• VA home loans
• Bonuses, if applicable

Pay

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