Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator

About the Role

This position is based in Landover, MD, where you will serve as an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator within the Office of Technical Operations, Aviation and Airspace Security Division. You will play a critical role in supporting the Secret Service's mission to provide a technically secure environment for the President, Vice President, and other protectees, while also delivering leading-edge technical support to criminal investigations.

Your day-to-day work involves operating small unmanned aircraft to conduct aerial surveillance, reconnaissance, and site assessments. You will develop and review flight operations plans to ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Administration regulations and agency policies. During real-time aerial surveillance events, you will identify potential threats or vulnerabilities and relay critical imagery and data to protective teams. Additionally, you will contribute to strategic program development by testing, troubleshooting, and evaluating Unmanned Aircraft Systems technologies and countermeasures.

Conditions of Employment

This role requires a high level of commitment and adherence to strict security protocols. Selected candidates must be U.S. citizens and, if applicable, registered for Selective Service. You will be required to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Tier 5 clearance, submit to a full-scope polygraph examination, and pass a credit check. The position also mandates a drug test prior to appointment and random testing while employed.

Physical fitness is essential; incumbents must undergo and pass a physical fitness assessment as required by Secret Service policy. A valid motor vehicle operator's license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment. The role involves irregular shift work with fluctuating tours of duty, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays, with potential for overtime and recall.

Application Instructions

To be considered, you must possess an active FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or a Department of Defense equivalent with UAS flight experience, including both Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) and fixed-wing platforms. Individual recertification is required every two years.

Applicants from other locations are welcome but must be willing to relocate to Landover, MD, if selected. Upon selection, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period during which your fitness and the advancement of the public interest will be evaluated. Employment will be terminated upon completion of this period unless certification is received in writing that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Equal Opportunity

The Secret Service is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.