Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About the Role
At Firestorm Labs, we’re shaping the future of autonomous systems for national security. As a UAS Operational Pilot & Instructor, you’ll be a key member of our team executing live demonstration & field exercises, instructing military, civilian and international users. You’ll also develop next-generation UAS tactics, techniques and procedures that drive the integration of cutting-edge UAS capabilities.
This is a hands-on, dual-role position that blends operational flying with technical training and field-level product feedback. Supporting critical flight missions, delivering high-impact training, and enabling tactical integration across diverse operational environments. You’ll work shoulder-to-shoulder with engineering, product and front-line operators, to ensure mission-ready standards, and safe, effective and repeatable UAS operations. Your work will directly shape how advanced drone technology is deployed and scaled.
What You’ll Do

Execute UAS flight missions in support of R&D, demos, customer engagements, exercises and operational deployments
Operate Group 1–3 UAS in tactical, test, and field environments—including austere or remote locations
Conduct mission planning, airspace deconfliction, and operational risk management (ORM)
Lead hands-on instruction in areas such as UAS mission planning, execution, emergency procedures, and modular payload integration
Train US and International operators to meet mission readiness standards
Teach safe Group 1-3 operations and aeronautical decision-making principles tailored to dynamic flight environments
Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, internal safety protocols, and risk mitigation procedures
Serve as a subject matter expert for Group 1-3 UAS operational use cases, test and evaluation, supporting product integration with end-users
Collaborate with engineering and senior leadership to inform UAS development, system improvements, and operational capabilities
Support the creation of training syllabi, courseware and mission brief materials, to standardize instruction across teams
Develop training content, after-action reviews (AARs), and technical documentation
Lead structured post-flight debriefs to capture lessons learned and inform future mission planning
Provide operational feedback to engineering, flight test and product teams, to drive system & product improvements

Qualifications

Minimum of 4 years of experience operating Group 1-3 UAS in military, tactical, austere or test environments.
2+ years of remote-control pilot experience
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification
Certified instructor or evaluator (Civilian or DoD)
Extensive experience operating Group 1–3 UAS, including first-person view (FPV) drones, with hands-on expertise conducting FPV flight operations in tactical environments such as GPS-denied, obstacle-dense, and contested areas.
Demonstrated proficiency in flying with precise control and advanced maneuvering
Skilled in mission planning, radio communications, and flight safety procedures ORM, and airspace deconfliction
Excellent situational awareness, communication, and decision-making under pressure
Able to work independently in dynamic settings with limited oversight & lead flight operations
Skilled in instructing and assessing flight safety protocols, emergency response procedures, and tactical drone employment techniques.
Willingness & ability to travel up to 25%
Ability to withstand environmental conditions (e.g., extreme heat or cold, grass, wind, sand, fumes, odors, gases, extreme noise, etc.)
U.S. Citizenship is required, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior military Group 1-3 UAS or tactical drone operations experience including FPV platforms used for ISR, loitering munitions, or precision strike
Strong knowledge of FPV components and systems, including RC RX/TX, flight controllers, video transmitters (VTX), and supporting peripherals
Experience with FPV drone systems, teaching FPV flight theory, safe operational practices and tactical applications.
Familiarity with EO/IR, LiDAR, or multispectral payloads
Knowledge of JADC2 environments and tactical network integration
Experience developing training pipelines, SOPs, or certification standards
Technical experience with UAS hardware/software integration, telemetry, or mission planning tools
Understanding of FPV use regarding modern military context, including emerging doctrine, and battlefield applications

Work Environment

Based in Rome, NY
We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and wear appropriate PPE [as required]. Adherence to all safety protocols and environmental controls is mandatory.
Occasional travel may be required (up to 25%); there will be training and flight demonstration events, both CONUS and OCONUS, which will require travel to support.
This role will include working in an outdoor environment under various weather conditions.
This position is currently funded under the existing contract period. Future continuation is dependent on government funding decisions and contract modifications.

Compensation US Salary Range: $90,000 - $125,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve. Benefits & Perks Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
Unlimited PTO
Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in December.
Generous Parental Leave
FSA
HSA
Hospital Indemnity insurance
Critical Illness insurance
Accident insurance
Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

ITAR Compliance To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.