UAV Operator

Job Description

Military drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are employed in the field to collect intelligence for tactical operations. As an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator in the Army National Guard, you will pilot these drones and gather and relay information about enemy forces and battle areas to your crew.

• Conduct air reconnaissance, surveillance, targeting, and acquisition missions
• Plan and analyze flight missions
• Perform preflight, in-flight, and post-flight checks and procedures
• Launch and recover airframe from runway
• Perform maintenance on communications equipment, power sources, light/heavy wheeled vehicles, and crane operations

• Performing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance simulation missions
• Preparing maps, charts, and intelligence reports
• Analyzing aerial photographs
• Using computer systems

• Interest in remote/radio controlled vehicles
• Organize information and study its meaning
• Ability to think and write clearly
• Strong attention to detail

In the Army National Guard, you will be paid to train. Training consists of 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you'll learn basic Soldiering skills, and 23 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT). You qualify for tuition assistance.

• Paid training
• A monthly paycheck
• Montgomery GI Bill
• Federal and State tuition assistance
• Retirement benefits for part‑time service
• Low‑cost life insurance (up to $400,000 coverage)
• 401(k)-type savings plan
• Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000 for existing loans)
• Health care benefits available
• VA home loans
• Bonuses, if applicable
• Most non‑prior service candidates earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change

• Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
• Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate
• Must be between the ages of 17 and 35
• Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards
• Must meet citizenship requirements