Drone Technician at FIBERTEK, INC. – Fort Belvoir, Virginia

Fort Belvoir, VA - Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 US (Primary)

Fibertek is seeking a Drone Operator to join our team supporting Army units. As the Drone Operator, you will utilize your skills to pilot unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

Essential Job Duties:

• Pilot drones during all phases of flight, including takeoff, navigation, mission execution, and landing day and night operations in complex and dynamic environments.
• Navigate diverse terrains and airspaces while adhering to all federal and military regulations, safety protocols, and operational requirements.
• Deploy, configure, and operate mission payloads such as high-resolution cameras, thermal imagers, and specialized sensors for data collection and target detection.
• Plan and program efficient flight paths, calibrate onboard systems, and conduct thorough pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections.
• Set up, maintain, and troubleshoot ground control stations and launch/recovery systems, ensuring rapid deployment and redeployment as mission needs change.
• Perform operator-level maintenance, diagnostics, and minor repairs on UAS and support equipment.
• Train and mentor new personnel on UAS operation, safety, and mission procedures; help maintain a high level of operational readiness.
• Maintain records of flight operations, maintenance, and repairs.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of airspace regulations, flight safety, and operational risk management
• Ability to analyze and interpret aerial imagery, video, and sensor data
• Proficiency with mission planning software and UAS ground control systems
• Hands-on experience in troubleshooting and maintaining electronic and mechanical systems
• Willingness to travel as required by mission needs
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or ability to obtain within six months if a contractor is hired)
• Prior experience operating drones/UAS in a professional or military environment strongly preferred

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:

• Work in varied environments, ranging from comfortable offices to rugged, outdoor field locations
• Sufficient physical stamina for equipment transport and setup.
• Ability to stand, walk on uneven terrain, and work in diverse weather conditions (heat, cold, wind).
• High-level eye-hand-foot coordination
• Constant visual attention and ability to lift equipment, sometimes up to 30 lbs.