Senior UAS Operator Instructor IV, Chief Pilot

WORK LOCATION: Huntsville, AL

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $107,000 - $125,000 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.

Summary

Redwire Defense Tech is seeking a highly skilled and motivated individual to join our team as Senior UAS Operator Instructor IV Chief Pilot. This role requires deep operational expertise in sUAS flight operations, standardization, and risk management. They would serve as senior pilot for operational procedures, flight area oversight, and technical integration. The ideal candidate would be experienced in cross-functional engagement, engineering collaboration, flight test support, procedural standardization, and ensuring safe and compliant mission-ready operations.

Core Competencies

• UAS Flight Operations Leadership
• Operational Standardization & Audits
• Risk Management & Safety Programs
• Flight Area Oversight
• Engineering & Flight Test Coordination
• Mission Planning & Briefing
• Technical Publications Review
• Emerging UAS Technologies
  
  

Responsibilities

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

UAS Operations

• Maintain proficiency and currency with all US Redwire Defense Tech emerging UAS technologies, regulatory changes, and operational best practices.
• Hold and maintain all required certifications; serve as a designated examiner.
• Adhere to FAA regulations and guidelines, ensuring compliance during UAS operations and training activities.
• Support demonstrations, field mission, and equipment testing.
• Travel up to 50%.
  
  

Standardization & Evaluation Support

• Serve as senior pilot authority for operational standards, flight procedures, and safety compliance.
• Conduct periodic audits of flight areas to ensure adherence to company and regulatory requirements.
• Develop, maintain, and standardize operational documentation and mission procedures.
• Manage revision control for risk assessments, mission briefs, and operations guidance.
• Lead or support updates to training content, instructional methods, and delivery standards.
• Provide data-driven recommendations to the Standardization & Training Manager to enhance operational performance
  
  

Subject Matter Expert Support

• Work cross-departmentally with key stakeholders to stay current on emerging technologies and configuration updates.
• Act as pilot subject matter expert for engineering, providing operational insight on new technologies and system capabilities.
• Serve as lead liaison for engineering flight test requests, coordinating operational support and risk mitigation.
• Collaborate with technical publications teams to assist in accuracy and operational relevance of pilot-facing documentation.
• Assumes all other responsibilities as assigned
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of directly related experience
• Deep understanding and proficiency with Redwire Defense Tech UAS products
• Strong attention to detail with strict adherence to operational and safety protocols
• Experience in conducting demonstrations, field operations, and equipment testing
• Knowledge of UAS technology, airspace regulations, and industry best practices
• Excellent communication and instructional skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex concepts to trainees
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills in UAS operations
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic team environment
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Military Experience
• FAA Part 107 UAS pilot-rated
• 5 years of directly related experience
• Bachelor’s Degree
• Operational Risk Management Certification
• Secret Clearance (or eligible)
  
  

Redwire Defense Tech Benefits

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan
  
  

Clearance Requirements

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

Work Environment And Physical Requirements

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 50 pounds as needed.

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.