SR. TECHNICAL SPECIALIST - TECHNICAL SPECIALIST - Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)

Southwest Research Institute

San Antonio, TX

JOB DETAILS
JOB TYPE
Full-time, Employee
SKILLS
Acceptance Testing, Communications Architecture, Cross-Functional, Data Analysis, Data Collection, Driver's License, Embedded Systems, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Field Trials, Integration Testing, Leading Edge Technology, Performance Tuning/Optimization, Radio Frequency, Research & Development (R&D), Satellite Communications, Security Clearance, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), System Integration (SI), System Validation, Technical Writing, Test Data, Test Plan/Schedule, Testing, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), Wheel/Front-End Loader, Wireless Communications
LOCATION
San Antonio, TX
POSTED
12 days ago
Who We Are:

Join an independent research and development (R&D) company where innovation meets national security solutions. We are seeking a skilled and motivated Technical Specialist/Senior Technical Specialist in Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). This individual will contribute expertise in UAS design, integration, testing, and field operations, specializing in enabling cutting-edge solutions to mission-critical challenges.

Objectives of this Role:
  • Apply advanced technical knowledge to the implementation, testing, and integration of UAS systems across research and development initiatives.
  • Support the development and integration of payloads, sensors, and autonomous platforms tailored to field operations and mission objectives.
  • Work on multidisciplinary teams to tackle dynamic and complex challenges associated with diverse operating conditions.
  • Provide technical specialization in key areas such as mission planning, embedded computing, UAS autonomy, and real-time field deployment scenarios.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
  • Design and implement specialized technological solutions for UAS-related systems, including payload and sensor integration.
  • Perform in-field testing, data collection, and analysis to support system validation and performance optimization.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in operating and optimizing RF-based systems, including transmitters, command-and-control links, and wireless communication architectures (e.g., cellular, SATCOM, mesh networks).
  • Develop comprehensive technical documentation, such as user specifications, test plans, and standard operating procedures.
Requirements:
  • Requires a Bachelors degree in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or directly related degree in UAS Systems with related experience.
  • Current Part 107 Drone Pilot License required (FAA). Current USG security clearance is highly desirable.
  • 2+ years: Experience with UAS systems, emphasizing field deployment, payload integration, and compliance validation.
  • 2 years: Ability to perform operations and testing in challenging environments, including extreme weather conditions and remote outdoor settings.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

About the Company

S

Southwest Research Institute