Flight Operations Associate

Job Title

Flight Operations Associate

Agency

Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Department

Autonomy Research Institute

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Corpus Christi, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.

TAMU-CC's beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.

PURPOSE

The Flight Operations Associate position is designed to support and enhance existing Flight Operations Coordinators' efforts in preparing for and executing UAS missions. This role focuses on providing essential ground support, ensuring all equipment and personnel are ready for an operation, and assisting with the coordination of logistics and maintenance. Additionally, this position serves as a training opportunity, offering individuals the chance to gain comprehensive knowledge of UAS operations, including an understanding of key components of Part 107 regulations, with the goal of advancing towards becoming a certified Part 107 pilot. This role is vital in ensuring smooth and efficient UAS operations while fostering the development of future Flight Operations Coordinators.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Flight Operations: 40%

• Assist in the operational aspects of UAS missions, including pre-mission planning, on-site support during missions, and post-mission tasks. Ensure UAS operations are conducted efficiently, safely, and in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Engage in hands-on training and practical exercises, acquiring the skills necessary to conduct UAS operations and preparing for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 certification.
• Ensure all UAS operations adhere to the established safety standards and regulatory guidelines. Report any safety concerns or violations to the appropriate supervisor or safety officer.

Administrative: 30%

• Maintain detailed and organized records of all flight operations, training activities, and compliance-related documents, including mission logs, equipment usage, and personnel assignments.
• Assist in the creation, review, and management of operational documents, reports, and logs. Ensure all documentation is accurate, complete, and compliant with internal standards and external regulations. This includes preparing reports for management review and regulatory audits.
• Prepare and manage various documents related to UAS operations, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), training manuals, safety guidelines and checklists. Ensure all documents are formatted correctly, regularly updated, and distributed to the appropriate personnel.
• Ensure all documentation and records are kept up to date, stored securely in, and are in compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.

Support: 30%

• Ensure all logistical elements of UAS operations are effectively managed. This includes coordinating the availability of equipment, ensuring resources are in place for missions, and providing essential support to the Flight Operations Coordinators during mission execution.
• Assist in the scheduling of UAS missions, including coordinating with various departments to align resources, personnel, and equipment availability. Ensure schedules are communicated clearly to all relevant stakeholders and that any changes are promptly addressed.
• Assist in the scheduling, planning, and coordination of meetings related to flight operations. This includes preparing agendas, taking minutes, and following up on action items to ensure tasks are completed in a timely manner.
• Participate in post-mission reviews and safety audits to identify areas for improvement in safety and compliance practices. Contribute to the development and implementation of enhanced safety protocols and procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate's degree

• Two (2) years of related experience

• Additional education/experience may be considered as a substitute for the minimum qualifications required:

• High School diploma or GED with four (4) years of related experience OR

• Bachelor's degree

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

• High level of articulation and professionalism

• Exceptional attention to detail

• Critical thinking and proactive problem solving

• Ability to take initiative and identify opportunities for improvement

• Ability to either work in a team environment or independently with minimal guidance

• Ability to manage and prioritize tasks, resources, and time effectively

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate's degree or higher
• Knowledge of aviation terminology and best practices
• At least two (2) years of aviation work experience in areas such as airport operations, UAS operations, crewed aircraft flying, air traffic control, aviation maintenance or equivalent military experience

SALARY: Up to $4,166.67 Monthly ($50,000 Annual, Approximately)

NOTE: Employment may be impacted by the Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025 and the moratorium issued by Texas Governor Abbott on January 27, 2026.

BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)

From our generous benefits package and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.

INSURANCE:

• Medical

• $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).

• Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:

• Employee and Spouse

• Employee and Children

• Employee and Family coverage

• Dental & Vision

• Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account

DUAL CAREER PARTNER PROGRAM

ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES

Work Life Solutions:

• Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources

Tuition Benefits:

• Public Loan Forgiveness
• Book scholarships
• 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).

Retirement:

• Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
• Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan

Time Off:

• 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.
• 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
• 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
• 12-15 paid holidays each year.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.