Senior UAS Pilot & Standardization Specialist

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace (KHA) is a leader in developing long-endurance unmanned aerial platforms for diverse industries, including aerial reconnaissance, survey, and communication relay. Our aircraft leverage advanced design and on-board intelligence to provide exceptional value to our clients.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Manager of Training and Standardization, this senior pilot position is crucial for overseeing operational procedures, flight area management, and the technical integration of UAS. The ideal candidate will possess deep operational expertise in (s)UAS flight operations, standardization, curriculum development, and project management.

Key Responsibilities

UAS Operations

• Maintain proficiency and currency with KHA's UAS technologies, regulatory changes, and best practices.
• Hold and maintain all required certifications.
• Ensure strict adherence to FAA regulations (Part 107, DOE Orders, restricted airspace) and site procedures.
• Support demonstrations, field missions, customer operations, and equipment testing, including delivering real-time aerial intelligence and integrating UAS data.
• Assist with flight planning, pre/post-flight checks, risk assessments, and maintaining accurate logs.
• Perform routine maintenance, diagnostics, and software updates on UAS platforms and ground control systems.
• Maintain personal flight records, participate in training exercises, and meet individual currency requirements.
• Adhere to Integrated Safety Management (SP 1-3100) and maintain a clean UAS hangar.
• Travel up to 70%.

Standardization & Evaluation Support

• Act as a senior pilot authority for operational standards, flight procedures, and safety compliance.
• Conduct periodic audits of flight areas for regulatory adherence.
• Develop, maintain, and standardize operational documentation and mission procedures, managing revision control.
• Lead or support updates to training content, instructional methods, and delivery standards.
• Provide data-driven recommendations to enhance operational performance.

Subject Matter Expert Support

• Collaborate cross-departmentally to stay current on emerging technologies and configurations.
• Serve as a pilot subject matter expert for engineering, providing operational insights on new technologies and system capabilities.
• Act as lead liaison for engineering flight test requests, coordinating operational support and risk mitigation.
• Assist technical publications teams with the accuracy and operational relevance of pilot-facing documentation.

Core Competencies

• UAS Flight Operations Leadership
• Operational Standardization & Audits
• Risk Management & Safety Programs
• Site Management & Flight Area Oversight
• Engineering & Flight Test Coordination
• Mission Planning & Briefing
• Technical Publications Review
• Knowledge of Emerging UAS Technologies and market landscape

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of directly related experience.
• Deep understanding and proficiency in Defense-related UAS products.
• Strong attention to detail and strict adherence to safety protocols.
• Experience in conducting demonstrations, field operations, initial qualification training, evaluations, curriculum development, and equipment testing.
• Knowledge of UAS technology, airspace regulations, and industry best practices.
• Excellent communication and instructional skills.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in UAS operations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Military Experience
• FAA Part 107 SUAS Remote Pilot
• FAA Part 61 Pilot
• 5+ years of directly related experience
• Secret Clearance (or eligible)

Company Information

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace, Inc. is committed to Equal Opportunity in Employment. We collect and use Personal Information for HR, employment, health, safety, and business purposes in compliance with the CCPA. EU applicants acknowledge international data transfer to the US.