Deployment Site Lead

JOB TITLE: DEPLOYMENT SITE LEAD 

DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS 

REPORTS TO: DIRECTOR OF FLIGHT OPERATIONS 

CLASSIFICATION: EXEMPT 

JOB SUMMARY:  

The deployment site lead will oversee the on-site management of deployed personnel supporting customer operations CONUS/OCONUS. This role ensures seamless execution of contract requirements, personnel readiness, and operational efficiency at the deployment site. Additionally, this role will support the flight operations department with documentation management, operational planning, logistics coordination, and other duties.  

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Serve as the primary on-site lead, overseeing deployed personnel and ensuring compliance with contract requirements, operational directives, and mission objectives.
• Act as Pilot in Command, performing pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight safety checks while ensuring safe and efficient aircraft operations.
• Train and mentor deployed personnel on operational procedures, compliance requirements, and other deployment-related aspects to maintain readiness.
• Act as the main point of contact between Platform, client representatives, government/military officials, and other key stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment and operational issues to maximize mission readiness and aircraft availability.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, security, and compliance policies, including government regulations and company standards.
• Conduct site inspections, briefings, and status reports to assess and enhance operational effectiveness.
• Manage logistical and administrative requirements, including personnel housing, transportation, and overall welfare.
• Lead pre-deployment and post-deployment briefings to ensure personnel are adequately prepared and debriefed.
• Develop and implement contingency plans to mitigate risks and ensure mission continuity.
• Support Flight Operations, assisting with documentation management, operational reporting, and process improvements.
• Perform additional duties as required to support overall mission success.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:  

• High school Diploma or GED and 5-7 years of relevant experience
• Minimum of 1000 hours of flight experience as a Pilot in Command. 
• Experience in deployed UAS ISR operations 
• Must currently possess and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance. 
• Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate. 
• Up to 100% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required 
• Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions 
• Expert knowledge and extensive experience with Piccolo or Quattro flight controllers.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:   

• Vigilant Spirit experience  
• Quattro FMS experience  
• Research and development experience  
• Publication writing experience  
• Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA  
• Private Pilot License  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:   

• Must be able to perform physical requirements of the job, with or without a reasonable accommodation, including, but not limited to, perceiving differences in wire cable colors, moving and/or lifting items such as ladders, tools, air tanks, test equipment and other objects weighing up to 50 pounds, working aloft; climbing ladders. 
• Must be able to obtain a DOT physical