UAS Operational Pilot & Instructor-Rome, NY

About the Role

At Firestorm Labs, we’re shaping the future of autonomous systems for national security. As a UAS Operational Pilot & Instructor you will execute live demonstrations and field exercises, instruct military, civilian, and international users, and provide technical feedback to engineering. You will operate both Group 2/3 fixed‑wing UAS via ground control station (GCS) and FPV aircraft, ranging from basic manual flight to advanced acro and precision maneuvering. The position blends operational flying with technical training and field‑level product feedback, supporting critical flight missions, delivering high‑impact training, and enabling tactical integration across diverse operational environments.

Responsibilities

• Execute UAS flight missions supporting R&D, demos, customer engagements, exercises, and operational deployments.
• Operate Group 2/3 fixed‑wing UAS via GCS in tactical, test, and field environments, including austere or remote locations.
• Fly FPV aircraft across the full skill range, from basic manual control through advanced acro and precision maneuvering.
• Conduct mission planning, airspace deconfliction, and operational risk management (ORM).
• Deliver hands‑on instruction in UAS mission planning, execution, emergency procedures, and modular payload integration using established curricula.
• Train U.S. and international operators to meet mission‑readiness standards.
• Teach safe Group 2/3 fixed‑wing (GCS) operations and aeronautical decision‑making principles.
• Instruct FPV operators from basic through advanced flight skills within established training frameworks.
• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, internal safety protocols, and risk mitigation procedures.
• Serve as a knowledgeable resource on Group 2/3 fixed‑wing and FPV operational use cases and test/evaluation activities.
• Provide field feedback to engineering on UAS performance and payload integration.
• Support creation of training syllabi, courseware, and mission brief materials for assigned programs.
• Develop training content, after‑action reviews (AARs), and technical documentation.
• Lead structured post‑flight debriefs to capture lessons learned and inform future mission planning.
• Report field observations and operator feedback to engineering and product teams.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent education.
• U.S. citizenship required (ITAR regulations) with ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
• 4+ years operating Group 2/3 fixed‑wing UAS via GCS in military, commercial, or public‑safety settings.
• 2+ years remote‑control pilot experience.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (must obtain within first 30 days of employment).
• Proficiency flying FPV aircraft from basic manual control through advanced acro and precision maneuvering.
• Hands‑on experience with FPV systems (RC, flight controllers, cameras, motors, propellers, peripherals).
• Basic drone maintenance experience.
• Experience with mission planning, radio communications, and flight safety procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior military service with Group 2/3 fixed‑wing UAS or tactical drone operations.
• Experience with FPV drone systems, drone racing, or aerial videography techniques.
• Strong knowledge of FPV components (RC RX/TX, flight controllers, video transmitters, peripherals).
• Ability to teach FPV flight theory and safe operational practices effectively.
• Familiarity with EO/IR, LiDAR, or multispectral payloads.
• Knowledge of JADC2 environments and tactical network integration.
• Certified instructor or evaluator (civilian or DoD).
• Experience developing training pipelines, SOPs, or certification standards.
• Technical experience with UAS hardware/software integration, telemetry, or mission planning tools.

Company Overview

Firestorm Labs is a VC‑backed defense technology company focused on “democratized deterrence” – delivering cost‑efficient, mission‑adaptable aerial vehicles to U.S. allies. We aim to upend traditional defense procurement by providing world‑class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost, empowering operators with innovative solutions.

Work Environment

• Based at our headquarters in San Diego, CA (relocation assistance available).
• Travel up to 25% of the time for training and flight demonstration events (both CONUS and OCONUS).
• Outdoor work in various weather conditions; ability to withstand extreme heat, cold, wind, sand, fumes, noise, etc.

Compensation

• Base salary: $110,000 – $125,000 (commensurate with experience).
• Meaningful equity grant in a growth‑stage defense technology company.

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Unlimited PTO and an extremely generous holiday calendar (including a July and December hiatus).
• Generous parental leave.
• Lifestyle Spending Account.
• FSA, DC FSA, HSA options.
• Hospital indemnity, critical illness, and accident insurance.
• Basic Life/AD&D, short‑term and long‑term disability insurance (100% covered by Firestorm, with optional additional coverage).
• Free 24/7 mental health resources, including therapy.
• Additional work‑life services such as free legal and financial support.

Export Control Compliance: Candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, protected individuals, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations under ITAR and EAR.