Lead sUAS Specialist

General Summary

COLSA is hiring for a Lead sUAS Specialist to join our Uncrewed Systems Department. The ideal candidate will participate in the build, design, configuration, integration, maintenance, training, and test of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). This role leads hands-on assembly and prototyping efforts, provides technical guidance to team members, and ensures system performance meets design specifications. The Lead sUAS Specialist also contributes to process improvements, documentation, training, and troubleshooting while supporting testing activities and collaborating with stakeholders throughout the development lifecycle.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (*Essential functions):

• Lead hands-on rapid prototyping for the design process for drones
• Provide practical feedback on design changes based on testing results and system performance.
• Build, integrate, and test mechanical and electrical drone systems, including subassemblies
• Works with machine shop tools and other items including CNC mills, 3D printers, etc.
• May use CAD tools as needed to support design updates and assembly layouts
• Documents processes and build techniques
• Provides technical support to stakeholders and troubleshoots issues
• Participates in testing, data collection, and analysis
• Prepares reports for leadership discussions on the process and recommends process improvement
• Acts as the go-to technical resource for troubleshooting and resolving issues
• Helps train team members and supports skill development across the team
• Travel as needed for field testing and/or project meetings may be required
• Supports testing efforts, including data collection and basic analysis

At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our "Family of Professionals!" Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefits here .

Required Experience

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 5 or more years of experience in electrical/electronic assembly, equipment maintenance/repair, or similar field
• Prior experience supporting unmanned aerial platforms or aviation systems
• Demonstrated knowledge of electrical and mechanical components
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, blueprints, and technical documentation
• Strong mechanical aptitude with experience in structural assembly or fabrication
• Familiarity with GCS software, flight logs, and diagnostic tools
• Ability to work in a team environment and meet deadlines in mission-driven settings
• Active Secret Clearance; US Citizenship required
• Willing and able to travel to customer sites (up to 10%) as needed

Preferred Qualifications

• IPC-J-STD-001 solder certification
• Background in fabrication or manufacturing repair
• Experience with wire harness fabrication and integration
• Leadership or crew coordination experience in a technical environment

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. COLSA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.