THIS POSITION IS LOCATED IN SOUTHERN MARYLAND.
The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Research and Operations Center (UROC), Department of Aerospace, A. James Clark School of Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park is seeking a UAS Operator, reporting to the Lead UAS Pilot, to support UAS research and operations projects by serving as a Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) and observer; managing training for UROC staff pilots; assisting UROC engineers with modifying UAS and integrating payloads; and maintaining the UROC’s UAS. UROC projects are focused on research and primarily involve small UAS under 55 lbs operated in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 107 rules with occasional operations requiring waivers or Certificates of Waiver or Authorization (COA).
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
UAS Operations
- Maintain Remote Pilot certification under Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 107. Obtain and maintain required future FAR certifications as determined relevant by the UROC Director.
- Serve as Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) for UAS flight operations using a wide range of UAS from very small Group I to Group III systems.
- Perform duties as Visual Observer or Electronic Observer as required to support UAS operations.
- Supervise and conduct safe and professional field operations flying UAS for internal UROC and external customer missions.
- Remain up to date on all rules and regulations pertaining to the operation of UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS) and assist the Chief Pilot in obtaining waivers and COAs.
UAS Training Management
- Assist the Lead UAS Pilot to develop, maintain, and deliver training curricula for UROC UAS systems in accordance with original equipment
manufacturers’ (OEM) guidance and locally generated requirements.
- Employ simulation for training and flight rehearsal purposes.
- Develop materials, checklists, and procedures for classroom and hands-on training.
- Assist the Lead UAS Pilot in tracking certifications, proficiency, and currency of UROC flight staff.
UAS Modifications and Payload Integrations
- Assist UROC engineers to determine project requirements and coordinate system integrations with customers.
- Assist UROC engineers to modify UAS systems, integrate payloads, and perform hardware and software integrations on UAS in support of project requirements.
- Use 3-D printing and other fabrication methods to produce components required to meet project requirements.
- Solder circuit boards, modify wiring harnesses, and install components on UAS as needed.
UAS Maintenance
- Ensure all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance is performed, tracked, and documented as prescribed by OEM and UROC standard operating procedures (SOP).
- Determine sparing requirements and ensure adequate supplies are on hand for all UAS models at UROC
