Flight Operations Specialist

Urban Sky is a venture-backed aerospace startup that pioneers utilization of the stratosphere and reimagines the way humans view and analyze the earth. We design, build, operate, and sell stratospheric balloon systems, and the data we collect supports a wide range of applications, from real‑time wildfire monitoring to urban mapping. Our technology is also employed by government customers including the Department of Defense (DoD), NASA, and others.

Urban Sky sends flight vehicles to the stratosphere on a weekly basis.

Our team consists of engineers, makers, developers, and doers who believe in the power of human potential when passion meets utility within a small, supportive team. At Urban Sky we strive to create a team culture grounded in candor, inclusion, respect and empowerment.

We aim to build the next chapter of stratospheric history in Denver and are seeking self-starting, open-minded, and hard‑working team members.

The Flight Operations Specialist reports to the Head of Flight Operations and is part of the team that manages and executes Urban Sky stratospheric flight operations. This position is based in Denver, CO and requires strong field experience, discretion and judgment while launching, tracking, and retrieving high‑altitude balloon systems for various applications to deliver crucial internal and customer data. Extensive overnight travel (up to 100%) is required (CONUS and occasionally OCONUS).

The work schedule is dynamic, at times unpredictable, and subject to change based upon the operational needs of the company and our customers. Evenings, nights, and weekends as required depending on flight schedule, surge periods, weather, etc. Work days can consist of long hours driving or long days hiking in the field, or a combination of both. 12‑16 hour days are not uncommon on mission days, however not every day will involve flying as operations are dependent on weather conditions, customer support and R&D schedule.

As a Flight Operations Specialist at Urban Sky, you will play a vital role in the successful execution of high‑altitude micro‑balloon flight systems for various missions. In general, the ideal candidate is comfortable working both individually and as part of a team, able to provide continuous effort to improve operations, streamline processes, work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality customer service.

Be an overall team player and participate in special projects and other duties as required.

• Launch and Recovery Operations: Perform physical launch and recovery of micro‑balloon flight systems, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
• Vehicle Operation: Safely operate and maintain company vehicles during deployments, which can involve long‑distance driving for both launch locations and chase/recovery activities.
• On‑Call Readiness: Be available for rapid deployment with less than 24 hours’ notice, traveling extensively throughout the Continental U.S. for periods ranging from a few days to a few weeks.
• D IE/Customer Support: Comfortable working with military/government clients, supporting, organizing, and ensuring the success of their CONOPs.
• Customer Training: Become a subject matter expert to educate on the physical employment of Urban Sky flight systems and software.
• Communication and Responsiveness: Carry and maintain a smartphone at all times when On‑Call, responding promptly to notifications. Demonstrate proficiency in Urban Sky technology for flight tracking and communication.
• Field Presence: Exercise sound judgment, at times in ambiguous situations, as well as navigating field hazards, respecting private property, and representing Urban Sky professionally when interacting with third parties such as property owners, law enforcement, and customers.
• Work Environment: Work flexible hours, including long days driving or hiking in the field. Actively participate in travel planning and authorization processes.
• Equipment Handling: Load and unload heavy compressed gas cylinders, operate various transportation modes (4x4 vehicles, ATVs, hike on foot), and, if necessary, coordinate helicopter rides for recovery operations.
• Documentation and…