Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Specialist (4626) (TS/SCI) (Tampa, FL)at SMX(View all jobs) (https://www.smxtech.com/careers/)
MacDill AFB; Tampa, FL
SMX is looking for a highly skilled and mission-driven UAS Specialist to support advanced unmanned systems operations across training and test environments. This role involves hands-on responsibility for the acquisition, modification, programming, and maintenance of multi-rotor and fixed-wing COTS UAS platforms, including Group 3 and turbine aircraft. The ideal candidate will lead flight operations, conduct vulnerability and developmental assessments, and collaborate with intelligence agencies to enhance data sharing and threat analysis.
This is a full-time onsite position at MacDill AFB, FL.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Acquire, modify, fabricate, and maintain multi-rotor and fixed-wing COTS UAS platforms (Group 3 and turbine systems)
Launch, recover, and perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight checks on unmanned aircraft
Travel on short notice to CONUS and OCONUS locations, including potential conflict zones
Conduct vulnerability site assessments to support threat analysis and inform analyst teams
Assist in evaluating developmental aircraft to guide R&D efforts for next-gen UAS technologies
Collaborate with national and international intelligence agencies to establish data-sharing protocols and trend analysis
Plan, coordinate, and serve as safety officer during flight operations for training and testing events
Deliver technical red-team analysis to assess adversarial capabilities and vulnerabilities
Independently execute all functional responsibilities in dynamic and austere environments
Operate effectively within small, close-knit teams under high-pressure conditions
Instruct military personnel across ranks in UAS operations and technology applications
Support pre-deployment training, FTXs, VALEXs, and other technical exchange events
Research and assess emerging RPV technologies and their implications for DoD capabilities
Translate complex technical concepts into actionable insights for military stakeholders
Design and fabricate RPVs using limited instructions or custom-built kits
Define and execute operational scenarios for testing and training involving UAS platforms
Interpret customer requirements to guide proper use and development of UAS technologies
Utilize MS Office and intelligence automation tools to support analysis and product development
Maintain readiness to obtain FAA Part 107 and Amateur Radio Technician licenses
Deploy to CENTCOM theater following successful CRC completion
Required Skills, Experience & Education
Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility
Experience instructing military personnel across ranks
Proven expertise with COTS UAS platforms and RPVs (land, air, sea)
Ability to fabricate and operate aircraft from kits or limited instructions
FAA Part 107 UAS Pilot License (or ability to obtain)
CRC completion and CENTCOM deployment readiness Amateur Radio Technician License (or ability to obtain)
Strong grasp of MDMP and DoD operational impacts
Skilled in scenario planning, technical exchange, and intelligence automation
Exceptional communication and independent problem-solving abilities
Additional Comments
This position requires frequent CONUS and OCONUS travel—potentially to conflict zones—and demands independent performance in small team settings. The candidate will also serve as a technical advisor, safety officer, and red-team analyst, contributing to the evolution of next-generation unmanned technologies.
Application Deadline: October 20, 2025
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The SMX salary determination process takes into account a number of factors, including but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories, relevant prior work experience, specific skills, education and certifications. At SMX, one of our Core Values is to Invest in Our People so we offer a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits. Some key components of our robust benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement.
The proposed salary for this position is:
$87,700—$146,200 USD
At SMX®, we are a team of technical and domain experts dedicated to enabling your mission. From priority national security initiatives for the DoD to highly assured and compliant solutions for healthcare, we understand that digital transformation is key to your future success.
We share your vision for the future and strive to accelerate your impact on the world. We bring both cutting edge technology and an expansive view of what’s possible to every engagement. Our delivery model and unique approaches harness our deep technical and domain knowledge, providing forward-looking insights and practical solutions to power secure mission acceleration.
SMX is an Equal Opportunity employer including disabilities and veterans.
Selected applicant may be subject to a background investigation and/or education verification.