Mesa
Job Description FPV Instructor (FAA-Certified FPV Pilot) Position Type: Full-Time / Contract Work Location: UAS Training Facility (Indoor/Outdoor), Cincinnati, OH (Might change to Multiple CONUS locations) Reports To: Operations Manager 1. Position Summary The FPV Instructor provides advanced, hands-on training in First-Person View (FPV) Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), covering assembly, configuration, troubleshooting, controlled flight operations, and safety procedures. The instructor must hold FAA UAS certification (Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or recognized FAA FPV authorization) and is responsible for delivering training that complies with federal aviation regulations, organizational course standards, aviation safety rules, and mission-specific requirements. This position directly supports FPV Course of Instruction (COI) delivery and contributes to student evaluation, curriculum refinement, and operational safety. 2. Essential Duties & Responsibilities A. Instructional Duties • Deliver FPV instruction across fundamental, intermediate, and advanced levels., • Teach aircraft assembly, soldering, wiring, and component integration., • Provide hands-on training with Betaflight, ArduPilot, INAV, and related UAS configuration tools., • Conduct supervised flight training using simulators and live aircraft., • Train students on RF systems, video transmission (VTx), failsafe behavior, and link management., • Instruct proper battery handling, charging, storage, and LiPo safety procedures., • Demonstrate advanced flight skills including:, • Acro mode proficiency, • Obstacle navigation, • Precision maneuvering, • Emergency recovery techniques, • Ensure all FPV operations adhere to FAA Part 107 requirements (unless operating under documented waiver)., • Teach proper airspace classification, LAANC authorization, and NOTAM procedures., • Maintain personal FAA certification and ensure students understand regulatory boundaries., • Conduct flight operations within established FAA and organizational guidelines for VLOS, EVLOS, or approved FPV exceptions., • Maintain training aircraft, radio systems, goggles, and ground equipment., • Troubleshoot FPV systems including ESC desync, VTx interference, gyro filtering, and flight controller faults., • Conduct firmware updates, calibrations, and failsafe configuration., • Support or perform RSO duties during FPV flight operations., • Enforce all safety procedures, ORM controls, and Emergency Action Plan requirements., • Conduct safety briefs covering:, • Flight lanes and boundaries, • Battery hazards, • Weather/airspace factors, • Emergency/abort procedures, • Rapidly identify unsafe behavior or system conditions and terminate flight if required., • Assist in the development and refinement of FPV curriculum, lesson plans, and training materials., • Maintain student training records, evaluations, and qualification sheets., • Recommend equipment upgrades, training aids, and course improvements., • Participate in instructor standardization meetings and check rides. 3. Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities • Demonstrated proficiency in FPV aircraft operation, tuning, and problem-solving., • Ability to teach complex technical concepts in an accessible manner., • Strong understanding of RF systems (5.8 GHz, 2.4 GHz, ELRS, Crossfire)., • Knowledge of aerodynamics, flight mechanics, and UAS-specific hazards., • Familiarity with FAA regulations, waivers, and UAS operating standards., • Strong communication and coaching skills., • Ability to instruct in outdoor environments and dynamic, fast-paced training settings. 4. Minimum Qualifications • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or equivalent)., • Minimum 100 hours FPV flight time (acro mode preferred)., • Experience building, tuning, and repairing FPV airframes., • Prior teaching, coaching, or mentoring experience., • Proficiency with FPV configuration software and simulators., • Ability to pass background check and meet organizational training standards. 5. Preferred Qualifications • 300+ hours FPV flight experience across multiple platforms (3”, 5”, fixed-wing, micro)., • Experience teaching FPV in military, law enforcement, or commercial UAS programs., • Authorized or certified UAS instructor (military or civilian)., • Demonstrated experience with mission-relevant FPV tasks (ISR, breaching support, indoor CQB mapping, confined-space navigation)., • Experience with radio spectrum monitoring equipment., • Additional certifications:, • A&P, electronics tech, or related STEM credential, • TCCC/CLS or EMS certification 6. Physical Requirements • Ability to lift/carry up to 25 lbs of FPV or support equipment., • Ability to stand, walk, or observe outdoor UAS operations for extended durations., • Visual acuity adequate for FPV student evaluation and safety monitoring. 7. Working Conditions • Outdoor flight ranges, indoor flight bays, classrooms, and technical labs., • Exposure to battery charging stations, RF equipment, and soldering environments., • Work in varying weather or light conditions depending on training schedule. 8. Security & Compliance • Must comply with all organizational, FAA, and federal regulations., • May require security clearance depending on the training environment., • Position contingent on contract award, anticipate first quarter 2026.