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Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator

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Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator - 15W


  • Active/Reserve:Active Duty
  • Officer/Enlisted:Enlisted
  • Restrictions:None

Overview

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operators are remote pilots of unmanned observation aircrafts, aka military drones, or UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) that gather intelligence used in operational tactics. Our drone operators are intelligence specialists; they are integral to providing Army personnel with information about enemy forces and battle areas.

Job Duties

  • Conduct air reconnaissance, surveillance, targeting and acquisition missions
  • Plan and analyze flight missions
  • Perform preflight, in flight and postflight checks and procedures
  • Launch and recover air frame from runway
  • Perform maintenance on communications equipment, power sources, light/heavy wheeled vehicles and crane operations

    • Requirements

  • Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.

    • Training

    Job training for an unmanned aircraft systems operator requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and over 23 weeks of Advanced Individual Training with on-the-job instruction. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and in the field.Some of the skills you'll learn on your way to becoming an elite drone pilot are:

  • Performing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance simulation missions
  • Preparing maps, charts and intelligence reports
  • Analyzing aerial photographs
  • Using computer systems

    • Helpful Skills

  • Interest in remote/radio control vehicles
  • Organize information and study its meaning
  • Think and write clearly
  • Attention to detail

    • ASVAB

    The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is an examination that is administered by the United States Military Entrance Processing Command. It is used to determine qualification and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military.

  • Surveillance & Communications (SC) : 102

    • Compensation

  • Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay and vacation time.

    • See the whole list of Army Occupational Specialties here

    To learn more about the Army's rank structure, see our complete list of Army ranks.
    To see a list of military medals and decorations that can be earned by servicemembers in the Army and other branches of the military, see our list of military decorations and medals.