Air Security Manager (Anti -Drone Lead)

Cardinal Security • Newark, NJ

1d

About The Position

The Air Security Manager (Anti-Drone Lead) is responsible for safeguarding the airspace around high-profile clients, facilities, and events. This individual oversees airspace monitoring, drone detection, and countermeasure deployment while ensuring compliance with all relevant aviation and legal regulations. Acting as the bridge between security leadership, local aviation authorities, and specialized anti-drone personnel, the Air Security Manager ensures potential aerial threats are identified and neutralized promptly and effectively.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Aeronautical Engineering, Security Management, or a related field (or comparable experience).
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in air security, UAV operations, military, law enforcement, or a similar domain.
• At least 2 years in a leadership or managerial capacity, overseeing teams or complex projects.
• Expertise in UAV/drone technology and counter-UAV tactics (e.g., jamming, detection, interception).
• Familiarity with airspace monitoring systems such as radar, RF detection tools, and advanced surveillance solutions.
• Working knowledge of aviation laws, drone regulations, and relevant compliance requirements (FAA, EASA, etc.).
• Proven capability to handle incident response planning and crisis management.
• Strong leadership abilities with a track record of motivating and managing technical teams.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills for internal coordination and public-facing reports.
• Detail-oriented, analytical mindset with the ability to make swift decisions under pressure.
• Ability to build productive relationships with regulatory agencies, law enforcement, and other external stakeholders.
• Adaptability: Thrives in a rapidly changing environment, especially given the fast-evolving nature of UAV threats.
• Integrity: Maintains strict ethical standards and confidentiality when handling sensitive security data.
• Proactivity: Anticipates future challenges in air security, proactively seeks out innovative tools and methods.
• Collaboration: Works well with interdisciplinary teams, fostering trust and alignment across various security functions.

Nice To Haves

• Certifications in aviation security or drone operations (e.g., Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, advanced anti-drone technology certifications) are advantageous.
• Security clearance or eligibility for clearance may be required, depending on client contracts.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally if needed for VIP events or site assessments.

Responsibilities

• Implement and maintain cutting-edge drone detection technologies (e.g., radar, RF scanning, optical tracking) to continuously monitor for unauthorized UAVs.
• Analyze flight patterns, signal intelligence, and real-time alerts to identify unusual or threatening drone activity.
• Oversee the selection, setup, and operation of counter-drone solutions (RF jammers, spoofing systems, net-based interceptors, etc.).
• Coordinate response protocols with Anti-Drone Specialists, ensuring swift and lawful neutralization of aerial threats.
• Establish policies for safe deployment of countermeasures, minimizing risk to bystanders and maintaining compliance with local and federal regulations.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies such as the FAA (or equivalent) and local law enforcement to secure necessary approvals, share threat intelligence, and clarify permissible countermeasure tactics.
• Keep abreast of evolving aviation laws, drone restrictions, and technology standards, updating internal policies and practices accordingly.
• Lead a team of Anti-Drone Specialists and UAV Operators, providing clear operational directives and performance feedback.
• Plan and conduct regular training sessions to enhance technical proficiency and situational awareness.
• Work closely with other security divisions—Ground Operations, Counter-Surveillance, and Cybersecurity—to align aerial threat mitigation with broader security objectives.
• Conduct site assessments to identify potential UAV vulnerabilities, preparing custom security plans for various high-profile locations or events.
• Develop and maintain emergency response protocols for high-risk or fast-evolving situations (e.g., rogue drone sightings, swarm attacks).
• Lead post-incident reviews, documenting lessons learned and recommending system/process improvements.
• Create detailed reports for each drone-related incident, capturing timelines, actions taken, and outcomes.
• Maintain accurate logs of detection data, countermeasure use, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership, supporting strategic security decisions.

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience, plus performance-based incentives or bonus structures.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with paid time off and retirement savings plans.
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for ongoing training, certifications, and career advancement in a cutting-edge security environment.
• Impactful Work: Protect high-profile individuals, critical events, and sensitive locations, playing a vital role in maintaining public safety and organizational reputation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager