Flight Operations Associate

Texas A&M - Corpus Christi • Corpus Christi, TX

3d

About The Position

The Flight Operations Associate supports Flight Operations Coordinators in preparing for and carrying out unmanned aircraft system (UAS) missions. The position provides ground support, helps ensure equipment and personnel are ready, and assists with operational logistics, scheduling, documentation, and maintenance coordination. It also includes hands-on training in UAS operations and key aspects of Part 107 regulations, with the goal of preparing the employee to pursue Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 pilot certification and develop toward future Flight Operations Coordinator responsibilities.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree.
• Two years of related experience.
• Alternatively, a high school diploma or GED with four years of related experience, or a bachelor’s degree, may substitute for the minimum qualifications.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• High level of articulation and professionalism.
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Critical thinking and proactive problem-solving skills.
• Ability to take initiative and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and in a team environment.
• Ability to manage and prioritize tasks, resources, and time effectively.

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s degree or higher.
• Knowledge of aviation terminology and best practices.
• At least two years of aviation work experience in airport operations, UAS operations, crewed aircraft flying, air traffic control, aviation maintenance, or equivalent military experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist with pre-mission planning, on-site support during UAS missions, and post-mission tasks.
• Help ensure UAS operations are efficient, safe, and compliant with regulatory requirements and established safety standards.
• Complete hands-on training and practical exercises to develop UAS operational skills and prepare for FAA Part 107 certification.
• Report safety concerns or violations to the appropriate supervisor or safety officer.
• Maintain organized records of flight operations, training, mission logs, equipment usage, personnel assignments, and compliance documents.
• Assist with creating, reviewing, and managing operational documents, reports, and logs; ensure documentation is accurate, complete, and compliant.
• Prepare reports for management review and regulatory audits.
• Prepare and manage UAS operational documents, including standard operating procedures, training manuals, safety guidelines, and checklists; keep them updated and distribute them to appropriate personnel.
• Keep documentation and records current, securely stored, and compliant with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate equipment availability, mission resources, and other logistical support for Flight Operations Coordinators.
• Assist in scheduling UAS missions and coordinating resources, personnel, and equipment with other departments; communicate schedules and changes to relevant stakeholders.
• Assist with scheduling and coordinating flight operations meetings, preparing agendas, taking minutes, and following up on action items.
• Participate in post-mission reviews and safety audits to identify improvements in safety and compliance.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of improved safety protocols and procedures.

Benefits

• Medical insurance, with employee-only coverage listed at $0–$30 per month after the university contribution; the university covers up to 83% of premiums for other listed coverage tiers.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and long-term disability insurance.
• Flexible spending account and day care spending account.
• Dual Career Partner Program.
• On-campus wellness opportunities.
• Work Life Solutions, including counseling, work-life assistance, financial resources, and legal resources.
• Public Loan Forgiveness eligibility.
• Book scholarships.
• Tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year, subject to applicable rules.
• Retirement through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas or Optional Retirement Plan.
• Voluntary tax-deferred account/deferred compensation plan.
• At least eight hours of paid vacation per month.
• Eight hours of sick leave per month.
• Eight hours of paid birthday leave.
• 12–15 paid holidays each year.
• Professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree