DEPLOYMENT SITE LEAD

JOB TITLE: Deployment Site Lead
DEPARTMENT: Flight Operations
REPORTS TO: Director of Flight Operations
CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

Job Summary

The Deployment Site Lead oversees on-site management of deployed personnel supporting customer operations. This role ensures the seamless execution of contract requirements, personnel readiness, and operational efficiency at the deployment site.

When not deployed, the Deployment Site Lead supports the Flight Operations Department through documentation management, operational planning, logistics coordination, reporting, and other operational support activities.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary on-site leader, overseeing deployed personnel and ensuring compliance with contract requirements, operational directives, and mission objectives.
• Act as Pilot in Command (PIC), performing pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight safety checks while ensuring safe and efficient aircraft operations.
• Train and mentor deployed personnel on operational procedures, compliance requirements, and deployment-related responsibilities.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between Platform Aerospace, customer representatives, government and military officials, and other stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment and operational issues to maximize mission readiness and aircraft availability.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, security, and operational requirements, including government regulations and company policies.
• Conduct site inspections, briefings, and status reviews to evaluate and improve operational effectiveness.
• Manage logistical and administrative requirements, including personnel housing, transportation, and overall welfare.
• Lead pre-deployment and post-deployment briefings to ensure personnel readiness and mission continuity.
• Develop and implement contingency plans to mitigate risk and support uninterrupted operations.
• Support Flight Operations during non-deployment periods through documentation management, operational reporting, planning, and process improvement initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as required to support mission success.

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Unmanned Systems or a related field and 5+ years of related experience, or 9+ years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum of 1,000 flight hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
• Experience supporting deployed UAS ISR operations.
• Must currently possess and maintain a DoD Secret Security Clearance.
• Ability to obtain an FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
• Up to 100% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required.
• Comfortable operating UAS platforms in various weather and lighting conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Vigilant Spirit.
• Experience with Quattro FMS.
• Research and development experience.
• Technical publication writing experience.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• Private Pilot License (PPL).

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, including distinguishing wire and cable colors; moving, lifting, and carrying ladders, tools, air tanks, test equipment, and other objects weighing up to 50 pounds; working at heights; and climbing ladders.
• Must be able to obtain a DOT physical.