I'm assisting in recruiting civilian Pilots and Sensor Operators for a new Predator-B operation. A lot of this is on the DL, so some details are not available at this time. Here's roughly what we're looking for:

Sensor Operator:
Background: Some relevant experience such as: Miltary Aviator/Observer, Law Enforcement Aviator/Observer, Military Intelligence, Military UAV Operations, Image Anlysis, Forward Air Control (TACP, COLT, ANGLICO, Etc), SOCOM Operator, PJ, Force/Batt Recon, MARSOC, NAVSPECOP Mobile Unit, etc.
Pilot Experience: None required, but probably eligible to train for UAV Pilot position if desired.
Clearance: Secret+ desireable, must be eligible for TS+ (no major criminal, financial, or substance abuse issues)
Location: Lower-left US
Travel: Probably some CONUS, possibly some OUTCONUS
Pay: $60K (Likely $100K after one year)

Pilot:
Background: No specific requirements.
Flight Experience: Private Pilot + Instrument Rating
Medical: Probably FAA 3rd Class
Clearance: Secret+ desireable, must be eligible for TS+ (no major criminal, financial, or substance abuse issues).
Location: Lower-left US
Travel: Probably some CONUS, possibly some OUTCONUS
Pay: Likely $100K

I have some discretion on the SO background, so if you think you might fit, get in touch. I know of no specific education requirements. PMail me or just post here if you can't pmail.

DISCLAIMER: UAV Pilot time will do little to advance your civilian flying career.

 

Pay likely $100k for UAV? Where's this at? That's a 300% jump from what Uncle Sam contractors were paying a year ago.

 

The Predator-B is not a model-airplane UAV. It is large, very expensive, it may fly in NAS, and has an organic ability to conduct strike missions...ie kill people.

I'm not the pay guy, but real pilots usually prefer to fly manned airplanes...the UAV employers have learned they need to sweeten the pot to attract good people. They are not going to hire manned aviation rejects. The employer in question is large and well-known.

PMail me if interested. Otherwise...

 

Six figures is pretty standard from what I've seen for experienced large unmanned aerial systems operators. (Global Hawk/Predator/etc). I expect that this segment of aviation and defense is going to see great growth over the upcoming decade. Until more people are trained (and more training providers are available), salaries will remain high.

 

Ive got a few questions, I cant PM though.

Thanks.

 

Sent you a PM, rickair.

 

Can I do it from the hotel on my overnights?

 

Seems to me this would be ideal for some retired military pilots. They couldnt take the "G" forces but have sharp minds, good reflexes, combat experience and security clearances.

 

Lower left corner of CONUS? Se Habla Espanol? Bienvenido a Vista de Sierra.

 

My PMail filled up, and I'm travelling this week. If you're unable to contact me here, please call Susan at (619) 533-7142 and tell her it's regarding the Predator positions. She'll put you in touch with me.