Air Vehicle Pilot​/Air Vehicle Operator- Group

Overview

AVIAN is seeking an Unmanned Air Systems (UAS) Air Vehicle Operator (AVO)/Air Vehicle Pilot (AVP) to operate Group 1‑3 platforms during research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) flight requirements. The role may serve as both an internal and external UAS operator and ground launch/recovery crew.

• Pilot UAS Group 1‑3 aircraft during RDT&E flight requirements.
• Serve as an internal/external UAS operator and ground launch/recovery crew as required.
• Support ground maintenance and testing of assigned UAS.
• Ensure all test data items are collected, annotated, and delivered to test data analysis facilities.
• Participate in pre‑mission planning for test missions.
• Plan, execute, and report on developmental test projects.
• Coordinate with project engineers to develop test points, test cards, and test metrics.
• Write test reports.
• Communicate results and mission impact to project stakeholders.

• High School Diploma.
• Ability to operate UAS both inside a ground control station and externally using a controller box or tablet.
• Minimum Secret clearance;
  Top Secret desired.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Class 2 medical certificate.
• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Salary range: $110,000 to $125,000 (based on qualifications and internal parity).

• Familiarity with EW, radar, and electro‑optical counter‑UAS systems and test techniques.
• Relevant flight time on larger, semi‑automatic Group 2/3 air vehicles (e.g., Scan Eagle, Aero Sonde).
• Group 1‑3 UAS;
  Rotary and Fixed‑Wing pilot designations.
• Experience with NAVAIR test planning and reporting processes.
• Team leadership experience (manpower, planning, scheduling, resource allocation).
• Familiarity with the Patuxent River Airspace and its scheduling.
• Previous AVP instructor qualification.

• Employee ownership, allowing a direct stake in the company’s success.
• Real growth opportunities within a midsize, employee‑owned company.
• Purpose‑driven work focused on serving Navy and DoD clients.
• Collaborative culture with a one‑team mindset.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, and a TRICARE supplement for veterans.
• Flexible leave benefits: paid time off, 11 paid holidays, paid sick leave, maternity and bonding leave, and military training leave.

AVIAN is a service‑based organization and an equal‑opportunity employer. We seek the most qualified candidate for each opportunity without regard to race, creed, color, sex, age, religious belief, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual preference, physical or mental handicap, lawful political affiliation, or veteran’s status.