Senior Fixed-Wing UAS Operator (Contract Postion) at Swift Engineering – San Clemente, California

About Swift Engineering

If you’re passionate about engineering, innovation and making a difference, we invite you to join the Swift Engineering family. Together, we are shaping the future of aerospace and creating technologies that will change the world.

Senior Fixed-Wing UAS Operator

Swift Engineering is seeking a highly experienced Senior Fixed-Wing UAS Instructor Operator to support a fielded unmanned aircraft system (UAS) program and deliver training to an international customer.

This role is ideal for a senior operator who can step into a legacy platform environment, quickly assess system readiness, and lead safe, structured flight operations and training with minimal oversight.

The selected candidate will play a critical role in ensuring successful completion of contractual training deliverables while upholding the highest standards of flight safety and operational excellence

Key Responsibilities

Flight Operations & System Checkout

Conduct rapid familiarization with a fixed-wing, gas-powered UAS platformEvaluate air vehicle condition, ground control systems (GCS), and operational readinessExecute and supervise:Pre-flight inspectionsLaunch operations (rail, catapult, or bungee systems)Mission executionRecovery operations (belly landing)Troubleshoot and resolve field-level issues related to propulsion, avionics, communications, and control systems

Training Delivery (Primary Focus)

Lead training for customer operators and maintainers, including:System overview (aircraft, GCS, communications architecture)Mission planning and executionEmergency procedures and contingency operationsLaunch and recovery techniquesBasic maintenance and troubleshootingConduct live flight training evolutions and ensure safe execution

Training Program Development

Assess and refine existing training materials and documentationDevelop or update:Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)Checklists and quick-reference guidesInstructor materials and training curriculumEnsure training is structured, repeatable, and aligned with best practices

Operational Leadership

Serve as the on-site subject matter expert for flight operations and trainingProvide clear recommendations on system limitations, risks, and operational improvementsMaintain strict adherence to safety protocols and operational discipline

Required Qualifications

Extensive experience operating fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)Hands-on experience with:Gas-powered UAS platformsNon-runway launch and recovery systems (catapult, rail, bungee, or equivalent)Proven experience delivering formal training to operators and/or maintainersStrong working knowledge of:Autopilot systems and ground control stations (GCS)RF/data link systems (e.g., Silvus or similar)Ability to safely operate within legacy systemsDemonstrated sound judgment in flight safety and go/no-go decision-makingWillingness to travel internationally and operate in field environments

Preferred Qualifications

Military or defense-contractor background in UAS operationsExperience with ISR or tactical fixed-wing platformsBackground in UAS flight test combined with field operationsExperience training international or government customersFamiliarity with:Belly-landed aircraft systemsLong-endurance UAS platforms

Key Competencies

Strong ownership mentality and ability to operate independentlyCalm and decisive under pressure in live flight environmentsStructured and effective instructor with strong communication skillsPractical problem-solver with hands-on mindsetHigh attention to detail and commitment to safety

Program Environment

Legacy platform with limited historical continuityDocumentation may be incomplete or require validationFast-paced, high-visibility program with international customer engagementRequires adaptability, initiative, and technical depth

Deliverables

Safe execution of all flight operationsSuccessful completion of customer training programValidated and/or improved training materials and proceduresOperational recommendations for sustainment and future training

Compensation & Logistics

Competitive contract rate (commensurate with experience)Travel, lodging, and per diem providedPotential for extended engagement based on program needs

What We Offer

Direct impact on UAV design and performanceClose collaboration with multidisciplinary engineering teamsOpportunity to work on cutting-edge unmanned aircraft systems

Working Conditions:

Indoor office environment

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employee(s) will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.

A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent(s) will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities.

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship. Swift is an EOE. Must be “US Person” per ITAR qualifications.

The pay range for this role is:50 - 65 USD per hour(San Clemente, ca)