Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Specialist (4626) (TS/SCI) (Tampa, FL)

SMX is looking for a highly skilled and mission-driven UAS Specialist to support advanced unmanned systems operations across training and test environments. This role involves hands-on responsibility for the acquisition, modification, programming, and maintenance of multi-rotor and fixed-wing COTS UAS platforms, including Group 3 and turbine aircraft. The ideal candidate will lead flight operations, conduct vulnerability and developmental assessments, and collaborate with intelligence agencies to enhance data sharing and threat analysis.

This is a full-time onsite position at MacDill AFB, FL.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Acquire, modify, fabricate, and maintain multi-rotor and fixed-wing COTS UAS platforms (Group 3 and turbine systems)
• Launch, recover, and perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight checks on unmanned aircraft
• Travel on short notice to CONUS and OCONUS locations, including potential conflict zones
• Conduct vulnerability site assessments to support threat analysis and inform analyst teams
• Assist in evaluating developmental aircraft to guide R&D efforts for next-gen UAS technologies
• Collaborate with national and international intelligence agencies to establish data-sharing protocols and trend analysis
• Plan, coordinate, and serve as safety officer during flight operations for training and testing events
• Deliver technical red-team analysis to assess adversarial capabilities and vulnerabilities
• Independently execute all functional responsibilities in dynamic and austere environments
• Operate effectively within small, close-knit teams under high-pressure conditions
• Instruct military personnel across ranks in UAS operations and technology applications
• Support pre-deployment training, FTXs, VALEXs, and other technical exchange events
• Research and assess emerging RPV technologies and their implications for DoD capabilities
• Translate complex technical concepts into actionable insights for military stakeholders
• Design and fabricate RPVs using limited instructions or custom-built kits
• Define and execute operational scenarios for testing and training involving UAS platforms
• Interpret customer requirements to guide proper use and development of UAS technologies
• Utilize MS Office and intelligence automation tools to support analysis and product development
• Maintain readiness to obtain FAA Part 107 and Amateur Radio Technician licenses
• Deploy to CENTCOM theater following successful CRC completion

Required Skills, Experience & Education

• Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility
• Experience instructing military personnel across ranks
• Proven expertise with COTS UAS platforms and RPVs (land, air, sea) 
• Ability to fabricate and operate aircraft from kits or limited instructions
• FAA Part 107 UAS Pilot License (or ability to obtain)
• CRC completion and CENTCOM deployment readiness Amateur Radio Technician License (or ability to obtain)
• Strong grasp of MDMP and DoD operational impacts
• Skilled in scenario planning, technical exchange, and intelligence automation
• Exceptional communication and independent problem-solving abilities

Additional Comments

This position requires frequent CONUS and OCONUS travel—potentially to conflict zones—and demands independent performance in small team settings. The candidate will also serve as a technical advisor, safety officer, and red-team analyst, contributing to the evolution of next-generation unmanned technologies.

Application Deadline: October 20, 2025

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 The SMX salary determination process takes into account a number of factors, including but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories, relevant prior work experience, specific skills, education and certifications. At SMX, one of our Core Values is to Invest in Our People so we offer a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits. Some key components of our robust benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement.

The proposed salary for this position is:: $87,700 USD - $146,200 USD

At SMX®, we are a team of technical and domain experts dedicated to enabling your mission. From priority national security initiatives for the DoD to highly assured and compliant solutions for healthcare, we understand that digital transformation is key to your future success.

We share your vision for the future and strive to accelerate your impact on the world. We bring both cutting edge technology and an expansive view of what’s possible to every engagement. Our delivery model and unique approaches harness our deep technical and domain knowledge, providing forward-looking insights and practical solutions to power secure mission acceleration.

SMX is an Equal Opportunity employer including disabilities and veterans.

Selected applicant may be subject to a background investigation and/or education verification.