What are the responsibilities and job description for the Test Sensor Operator position at General Atomics Aeronautical Systems?
Job Summary
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
Under general supervision with limited review, this position is responsible for serving as a Sensor Operator and performing additional duties similar to those of a co-pilot/Second in Command for company aircraft during test, production, and demonstration flights. Acts as a subject matter expert for all aspects of the company’s family of Aircraft Systems, including aircraft hardware/software, ground control station systems, operational/experimental ground and flight testing. This role requires close collaboration with Test Aircrew, Flight Test Engineers, Project Engineers, and company management to support the development and employment of new aircraft and flight system technologies.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Job Qualifications
Salary range: 89,180 - 155,825
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
Under general supervision with limited review, this position is responsible for serving as a Sensor Operator and performing additional duties similar to those of a co-pilot/Second in Command for company aircraft during test, production, and demonstration flights. Acts as a subject matter expert for all aspects of the company’s family of Aircraft Systems, including aircraft hardware/software, ground control station systems, operational/experimental ground and flight testing. This role requires close collaboration with Test Aircrew, Flight Test Engineers, Project Engineers, and company management to support the development and employment of new aircraft and flight system technologies.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Independently perform duties as a Sensor Operator for test, production, and demonstration flights for company aircraft.
- Operate advanced sensor systems and collaborate with UAV pilots to optimize flight paths and sensor positioning.
- Manage test projects, including tracking progress, identifying risks and ensuring deadlines are met.
- Provide technical expertise in project meetings and assists in the development of test plans and schedules.
- May perform duties as Instructor Sensor Operator (ISO), developing training materials and mentoring trainees.
- Collaborate with on system upgrades and procedures.
- Collaborate with Test Pilots and Flight Test Engineers to develop and execute test plans, test cards, test schedules, mission execution, mission briefs, and debriefs.
- Collaborate with company engineers and senior management on developing company aircraft procedures, upgrades, and features.
- Ensure alignment of standardized flight procedures and instructional techniques for all company locations, including deployed locations.
- Ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines and company procedures.
- Perform duties at all company aircraft facilities as required.
- Perform other duties as assigned or required.
Job Qualifications
- Typically requires educational training equivalent to a bachelor’s degree and five or more years of progressively complex aviation experience, with three years flight test experience. Equivalent professional aviation experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
- Must have a strong aviation background and demonstrate a complete understanding of technical principles, theories, and concepts.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance is required.
- 2,000 hours of company aircraft flight time and a current MCE LRE qualification.
- Experience operating EO/IR payloads (AN/DAS-1, AN/DAS-4, or MX-20
- Experience operating Lynx SAR.
- Must possess:
- Strong analytical, communication, documentation, presentation, organizational, and interpersonal skills to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.
- Ability to effectively interface with all levels of employees, as well as military and civilian customers.
- The ability to work on a self-initiated basis and in a team environment.
- Detailed knowledge of computer operations and applications such as, MS Office, Apple iOS, Foreflight, Google Earth, and Rockwell-Collins products.
- The ability to maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
- The ability to plan, manage, and coordinate projects.
- The ability to work extended hours and travel as required.
Salary range: 89,180 - 155,825