Pilot

Job Description

Mission Support and Test Services, LLC (MSTS) manages and operates the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) for the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). Our mission is to ensure the security of the United States and its allies by providing high‑hazard experimentation and incident response capabilities through operations, engineering, education, field, and integration services, and by acting as environmental stewards to the Site’s Cold War legacy.

Our vision is to be the user site of choice for large‑scale, high‑hazard, national security experimentation, with premier facilities and capabilities below ground, on the ground, and in the air. MSTS employs over 2,750 professional, craft, and support employees who innovate, collaborate, and deliver on some of the most challenging nuclear security challenges.

Full‑time employees receive a competitive salary and benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; a pension and a 401(k); paid time off and 96 paid holidays; relocation assistance (if located more than 75 mi from the work location); tuition assistance and reimbursement; and more.

MSTS is seeking a professional pilot to join our Aviation Department to support the Remote Sensing Laboratory located at Nellis Air Force Base, Las Vegas, NV. Operated on both fixed‑wing aircraft and helicopters, this is a unique dual‑rated pilot position in support of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).

Initially perform pilot duties as a Second in Command (Pilot 1) in a King Air 350ER and AW139, with the intent to upgrade to Pilot In Command in both. Continued employment is contingent on successful completion of both type rating courses (King Air 350 and AW139) and the ability to upgrade to Pilot 4 in a timely manner (typically a year).

The NNSA Air unit is primarily an emergency response team. Pilots must be prepared to respond if activated. Standby requirements include:

• On‑standby as needed, usually 2–3 weeks per month, occasionally longer.
• Standby pay of $40 per day.
• Residence within 2 hrs of the assigned base while on standby.
• Reliable cell‑phone reception during standby.
• Physically fit to fly and meet additional physical and inoculation requirements.
• May be deployed for several weeks straight for emergency or non‑emergency missions.

Additional duties:

• Develop written mission planning documents and risk/hazard assessments.
• Provide safety and mission briefings to technical crew, mission scientists, and electronic technicians/operators.

• Flight Planning:
  Study flight plans, evaluate weather reports, and check fuel requirements, aircraft weight, and payload limits.
• Aircraft Inspections:
  Perform comprehensive walk‑arounds and instrument checks before takeoff to verify engine, landing gear, and navigation system conditions.
• Crew Briefings:
  Inform the flight crew and co‑pilots about flight details, safety protocols, and route‑specific conditions.

• Navigate and operate aircraft controls along planned routes, using visual references and cockpit instrumentation.
• Maintain continuous contact with Air Traffic Control (ATC) to manage takeoffs, landings, and altitude or route modifications.
• Monitor engines, fuel consumption, and weather, adjusting routes to avoid turbulence or severe storms.
• Provide passenger updates on flight status, weather, and delays.
• Collaborate with the First Officer and Cabin Crew to execute standard operating procedures and ensure passenger safety.

• Ensure aircraft is properly secured and parked upon arrival.
• Complete official logbooks, maintenance logs, and status reports, noting any system malfunctions.

• Make split‑second decisions and manage communication with ATC and crew during mechanical, medical, or weather emergencies.
• Adhere strictly to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations or local aviation authority standards.
• Participate in mandatory training, simulator tests, and health evaluations to maintain flight certifications.
• Perform other related work as assigned by Supervisor.

• At least 6 years of…