Drone Operator

Five and Fly•Various Locations, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

We’re hiring a Drone Operator to support our unmanned aerial systems (UAS) programs and ensure our platforms are ready to execute in the field. A Drone Operator is responsible for the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and readiness of Scout’s aerial robotics and support equipment. You’ll spend most of your week in the field, conducting flight tests, operating drones in diverse mission scenarios, and keeping our fleet in peak condition. This role is highly hands-on: you’ll be flying, troubleshooting, repairing, updating software, and ensuring that we’re conducting flights in mission-relevant conditions. Your work is the backbone that enables flight testing, data collection, and rapid iteration on cutting-edge autonomy. We’re a startup. You’ll be moving fast, context-switching daily, and helping define the culture and process as we go. This is a rare opportunity to come in early and architect the future of defense.

Requirements

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
Hands-on experience operating drones in training, testing, or mission environments
Strong technical skills with UAV hardware, electronics, and ground control systems
Ability to perform field-level maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs
Comfortable working outdoors in a variety of conditions and environments
Strong attention to detail and commitment to safe operating practices
Ability to lift, transport, and set up drone systems and support equipment
Clear written and verbal communication skills for logging missions and reporting results
Legal authorization to work in the United States is required.
Certain job duties may involve access to U.S. export-controlled information

Responsibilities

Operate Scout’s unmanned aerial systems (UAS) during test missions, training, and field operations
Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections to ensure airworthiness and mission readiness
Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair drones and associated ground support equipment
Log flight hours, maintenance actions, and mission data for reporting and compliance
Support engineers by executing test plans, capturing data, and providing operator feedback
Safely transport, stage, and deploy drones across a variety of environments
Stay current with UAS software, firmware, and autonomy system updates
Enforce safe operating procedures and adhere to regulatory requirements
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to prepare platforms for demonstrations and field trials