Job Description
Military drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are used in the field to gather intelligence for tactical operations. As an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator in the Army National Guard, you will be responsible for piloting these drones, and using your skills to gather and relay information about enemy forces and battle areas to your crews.
Job Duties
- Conduct air reconnaissance, surveillance, targeting, and acquisition missions
- Plan and analyze flight missions
- Perform preflight, in-flight, and post-flight checks and procedures
- Launch and recover airframe from runway
- Perform maintenance on communications equipment, power sources, light / heavy wheeled vehicles, and crane operations
Some of the Skills You’ll Learn
Performing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance simulation missionsPreparing maps, charts, and intelligence reportsAnalyzing aerial photographsUsing computer systemsHelpful Skills
Interest in remote / radio controlled vehiclesOrganize information and study its meaningAbility to think and write clearlyStrong attention to detailThrough your training, you will develop the skills and experience to enjoy a civilian career with federal government agencies, including the CIA and NSA.
Earn While You Learn
Instead of paying to learn these skills, get paid to train. In the Army National Guard, you will learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance.
Job training for an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator consists of 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you'll learn basic Soldiering skills, and 23 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT).
Benefits / Requirements
Benefits
Paid trainingA monthly paycheckMontgomery GI BillFederal and State tuition assistanceRetirement benefits for part-time serviceLow-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage)401(k)-type savings planStudent Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans)Health care benefits availableVA home loansBonuses, if applicableMost non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to changeRequirements
Military enlistment in the Army National GuardMust be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificateMust be between the ages of 17 and 35Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standardsMust meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details)Requires military enlistment. Programs and benefits are subject to change. Ask your Army National Guard recruiter for the most up-to-date information. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability.