Skip to main content
Search jobs

Find the perfect place for you.

Flight Ground Instructor

Palmdale, California

Apply Now

Overview

Pilots complete Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions while piloting Remotely Piloted Aircraft in support of our customers. Responsibilities include managing and performing all aspects of flying from planning, briefing, mission execution, debriefing, aircrew resource management and ground and flight safety. Pilots may be the primary interface between the on-site customer and teams back home and will be counted upon to solve problems.

  • Schedule: Full-Time Salary

  • Job Level: Mid-Level (3-7 years)

  • Travel: 0 - 25

Back to Job Navigation (Overview)

Success Profile

What makes a successful Flight Ground Instructor at General Atomics? Check out the top traits we’re looking for and see if you have the right mix.

  • Problem Solver
  • Focused
  • Team Player
  • Responsible
  • Adaptable
  • Proactive

Back to Job Navigation (Success)

Date posted 03/10/2023 Job ID 38533BR Company General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Experience Level Mid-Level (3-7 years) Job Title Flight Ground Instructor City Palmdale State California Workstyle Onsite Full-Time/Part-Time Full-Time Salary Salary Range $128,130 - $229,358

Job Summary General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Flight-Ground Instructor at our Flight Test Facility near Palmdale, California.

This position is responsible for serving as a permanent, full time, Instructor Pilot and Flight Examiner/Evaluator. Performs as subject matter expert for all aspects of the company’s family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems to include aircraft hardware and software, ground control station hardware and software. Provides instruction to pilots on the standardization of company aircraft ground and flight operations and procedures, flight test and instructional techniques. Responsible for the safe operation of the UAV during all phases of ground and flight operations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Instruct UAV student pilots as well as instructor pilots-in-training in all aspects of UAV ground and flight operations including academic (platform instruction) and in-flight instruction.
  • Acts as subject matter expert in UAV operational tactics, techniques, and procedures. Develops and executes instructor mission planning, briefing, mission execution and debriefing for ground and flight instruction.
  • Supports the development of training syllabus courseware to include research, word processing and presentation development.
  • Ensures compliance with all governing regulations including service guidance, company procedures and Federal Aviation Administration Regulations.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations and company policies wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company. Expected to maintain a productive and safe working environment in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
  • Other duties as assigned or required
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.


Job Qualifications:
  • Typically requires education or formal training equivalent to a four-year technical degree and six or more years progressively complex aviation experience.
  • Progressively complex aviation experience must include work done as an instructor pilot in a formal training program.
  • For Launch and Recovery instruction: 500 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) with UAV instructor or multiple UAV aircraft qualification; one thousand five hundred (1500) UAV hours, Multiple aircraft UAV Pilot Evaluator qualification.
  • Equivalent professional aviation experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
  • Must have a strong aviation background and demonstrate a complete understanding of technical principles, theories, and concepts.
  • Must have excellent organization skills including planning and coordinating work assignments.
  • Able to complete the ACC Classroom Instructor Course, MAJCOM or other DoD Component equivalent, as determined by the TQPC within six months of training as an instructor.
  • Completion of the Air Combat Command Classroom Instructor Course or MAJCOM equivalent satisfies the CRI requirement.
  • Ability to meet AFI 11-2 MQ-1/9, Volume 1, Chapter 2 Instructor Pilot Prerequisites prior to certification as an MQ-1/9 IP.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.
  • Must possess:
    • FAA Commercial Certificate with a current instrument rating;
    • Former or current MQ-9 instructor pilot qualification;
    • Strong interpersonal skills with emphasis on teamwork and verbal and written communication;
    • Ability to effectively interface with all levels of employees, as well as military and civilian customers;
    • Strong knowledge of computer applications and operations pertinent to the position;
    • Ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Preferred:
    • Current and qualified MQ-1/9 experience is highly desired.
    • MQ-9 Launch and Recovery Instructor Pilot experience.
    • Previous qualifications as an instructor in an aircraft in the air-to-ground role.
    • FAA Certified Flight Instructor

Salary:$128,130 - $229,358
Travel Percentage Required 0 - 25 Relocation Assistance Provided Provided US Citizenship Required? Yes Clearance Required? Desired Clearance Level Secret
Apply Now

Benefits

  • Healthcare

  • Pension, 401(k)/Retirement Plans

  • Competitive Pay

  • Multiple product lines means a variety of work

  • Paid Time Off

Back to Job Navigation (Rewards)

"I chose General Atomics because I wanted to apply my knowledge of aviation to help protect our nation in the air. The culture and atmosphere are like no company I have ever worked for. I enjoy coming to work every day."
– Mike, Airframe & Powerplant Specialist

Back to Job Navigation (Quote)

>

Sign up for job alerts

Get General Atomics job alerts delivered right to your inbox.

Sign Up

Join our talent community

Be among the first to get the latest career news, hiring events and other information helpful to your professional goals.

Sign Up