UAS Operations Analyst

Supports the Department of State (DoS) Air Wing Program Support Office (PSO) as a technical expert and consultant to DoS officials on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Counter-UAS (CUAS) program operations. Leads high-visibility, complex projects requiring original research, aviation operational analysis, and unconventional problem-solving approaches. Analyzes systems and relationships to evaluate and redefine the impact of new capabilities on current systems and policies.

Using program management tools (MS Office, SharePoint, etc.), supports the DoS UAS Program Manager by analyzing emerging missions, conducting contingency planning and market research, and recommending UAS solutions. Coordinates and facilitates meetings (agendas, slides, action items) and implements industry best practices to develop and transform processes.

Responsibilities:

• Technical & Analytical Support: Provide expert technical guidance on UAS to DoS and partner nation stakeholders; perform independent analysis to develop and recommend courses of action; review and evaluate projects, proposals, and reports for methodological validity and appropriateness.

• Program & Project Management: Perform day-to-day project monitoring, data collection, and stakeholder presentations; manage, track, and maintain documentation for unique projects; conduct market research and prepare cost estimates; identify new tools/techniques and analyze key UAS characteristics.

• Documentation & Staffing: Provide technical writing support for programmatic documents, directives, and SOPs; perform staffing actions, review contract proposals, and prepare/present program briefings.

• Fleet & Configuration Management: Assist the DoS UAS Manager with maintaining UAS hardware/software, recording maintenance and usage, and maintaining configuration control of the INL/A UAS fleet.

• OCONUS Program Support: Assist in creating and sustaining OCONUS UAS programs, coordinating airspace and frequency management issues, and synchronizing with partner nation Civil Aviation Authorities.

• Flight Operations: Conduct UAS operations as an INL/A remote pilot; pursue Remote Pilot Instructor (RPI) certification.

• Training & Currency: Assist with creating, maintaining, and executing UAS familiarization training courses; stay current on UAS regulations, aviation authority guidelines, and emerging UAS technology, sharing knowledge with the team.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience) and 10+ years of experience in aviation operations, UAS operations, or aviation program management.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or equivalent), or ability to obtain.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. and international UAS regulations, airspace, spectrum management, and safety requirements.
• Experience operating and maintaining fixed- and rotary-wing UAS in public safety, law enforcement, or military environments.
• Proficiency with UAS mission planning, 2D/3D data processing tools, and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint).
• Experience developing UAS policies, procedures, technical documentation, and sustainment plans.
• Ability to travel OCONUS; valid U.S. passport required at time of hire.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills.
• Ability to adapt to emerging technologies, work independently, and perform field work, including lifting up to 25 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience establishing or managing UAS programs for public safety, law enforcement, or military organizations.
• Knowledge of Group 1–4 UAS platforms, ATAK, counter-UAS technologies, and UAS cybersecurity.
• Experience with FAA Certificates of Authorization (COAs) and AUVSI Trusted Operator Level II (or higher) or remote pilot instructor certification.
• Experience developing and delivering UAS training and supporting military or government planning and briefings.
• Experience working with international aviation partners or partner nation capacity-building efforts.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Power BI, SharePoint administration, and professional Spanish-language skills.