Flight Ground Instructor

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. The position serves as a permanent, full‑time Instructor Pilot and Flight Examiner/Evaluator and performs as subject matter expert for all aspects of the company’s family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems, including aircraft hardware and software, ground control, and station hardware and software.

The instructor pilots cover standardization of company aircraft ground and flight operations and procedures, flight test, and instructional techniques.

• Responsible for the safe operation of the UAV during all phases of ground and flight operations.
• Instructs UAV student pilots as well as instructor pilots‑in‑training in all aspects of UAV ground and flight operations, including academic (platform instruction) and in‑flight instruction.
• Acts as subject matter expert in UAV operational tactics, techniques, and procedures.
• Develops and executes instructor mission planning, briefing, mission execution and debriefing for ground and flight instruction.
• Supports the development of training syllabus courseware, including research, word processing and presentation development.
• Ensures compliance with all governing regulations, including service guidance, company procedures, and Federal Aviation Administration Regulations.
• Observes all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations and company policies wherever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Maintains a productive and safe working environment in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

• Typically requires a four‑year technical degree or equivalent formal training and six or more years of progressively complex aviation experience. Equivalent professional aviation experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Progressively complex aviation experience must include work as an instructor pilot in a formal training program.
• For Launch and Recovery instruction: 500 hours as Pilot‑in‑Command with a UAV instructor or multiple UAV aircraft qualification; 1,500 UAV hours;
  Multiple aircraft UAV Pilot Evaluator qualification.
• For MCE‑only instructors: 3,000 hours flight experience in a manned aircraft or UAV, 1,000 hours as Pilot‑in‑Command, current UAV instructor or evaluator or multiple UAV aircraft qualification. MQ‑9 pilot time counts toward fulfilling the flying hour requirements.
• Must have a strong aviation background and demonstrate a complete understanding of technical principles, theories, and concepts.
• Must possess excellent organization skills, including planning and coordinating work assignments.
• Must possess:
  • FAA Commercial Certificate with a current instrument rating.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with emphasis on teamwork and verbal and written communication.
  • Ability to effectively interface with all levels of employees, as well as military and civilian customers.
  • Strong knowledge of computer applications and operations pertinent to the position.
  • Ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Preferred:
  • Current and qualified MQ‑9 experience is highly desired.
  • MQ‑9 Launch and Recovery Instructor Pilot experience.
  • Previous qualifications as an instructor in an aircraft in the air‑to‑ground role.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Type: Full‑Time Salary
Salary range: 140,940 – 252,293