Small Unmanned Aircraft System Instructor

MANTECH seeks a skilled and mission-driven Small Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Instructor to provide hands-on training in first-person view (FPV) drone operations to support our team in Stafford, VA.

You will help enhance operational readiness by delivering FPV instruction, supporting prototype development, and advancing drone capabilities in support of the Department of Defense.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Leading hands-on FPV drone training, including classroom, simulator, and live flight instruction across all skill levels
• Developing, maintaining, and updating FPV training materials such as SOPs, manuals, and multimedia content aligned to operational needs
• Supporting design, build, testing, and flight of prototype UAS platforms and integrating new FPV technologies into instruction
• Diagnosing, maintaining, and troubleshooting drone systems and software (e.g., Betaflight, Ardupilot) during training and operations
• Collaborating with mission planners, engineering teams, and operations staff to align training programs with real-world applications and system improvements
• Ensuring compliance with FAA regulations, maintaining inventory of drones and equipment, and supporting flight test data collection and analysis

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree with 2+ years' experience in military operations with 1 year of that experience operating FPV drones in tactical or professional settings
• Demonstrated ability to instruct or train others in FPV drone operations
• Strong technical knowledge of FPV systems, including airframes, control systems, programming, and safety protocols
• Familiarity with FAA Part 107 regulations and airspace classifications
• Proven troubleshooting skills with FPV hardware, firmware, and related diagnostic tools

Preferred Qualifications :

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification
• Current FPV (ACRO mode) experience with prior military, law enforcement, or special operations drone use
• Experience developing or modifying drone training programs and curricula
• Familiarity with firmware platforms (e.g., Betaflight, INAV) and analysis tools (e.g., Blackbox, Mission Planner)
• Operational background in reconnaissance, payload delivery, or advanced drone tactics

Clearance Requirements:

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance or higher based on mission assignment.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to carry and transport drones and training equipment weighing up to 45 lbs
• Frequently moves through outdoor terrain and field environments during training and flight operations
• Must be able to clearly communicate instructions, respond to student questions, and visually track drone flights during live exercises