Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description

A V-BAT Air Vehicle Operator (AVO) is responsible for executing deployed flight operations and maintenance activities in both CONUS and OCONUS environments in direct support of customer mission requirements. This role is deployment-focused and requires a high degree of adaptability, discipline, and the ability to operate effectively in austere, high-tempo, and often ambiguous environments.

AVOs are expected to develop proficiency across core V-BAT skillsets, including flight operations, mission planning, payload employment, troubleshooting, and basic maintenance support. They must be capable of operating as part of a small team, maintaining system readiness, and executing missions in accordance with established procedures, safety standards, and customer expectations.

In deployed settings, AVOs support DoD and international customers in both maritime and land-based operations. Responsibilities include executing missions, assisting with system setup and recovery, maintaining equipment, and supporting day-to-day operational requirements. AVOs are also expected to communicate effectively with customers, demonstrate professionalism, and represent Shield AI in forward environments.

This role emphasizes hands-on operational execution and reliability, with a focus on building experience and proficiency while contributing to overall mission success, team effectiveness, and safe employment of V-BAT systems.

What You'll Do:

• Operational proficiency: Ability to safely execute flight operations, mission planning, and payload employment in accordance with established procedures 
• Technical troubleshooting: Strong ability to diagnose and resolve system, software, and hardware issues in both training and deployed environments 
• Situational awareness & decision-making: Applies sound judgment in dynamic environments, balancing mission objectives with safety and risk management 
• Adaptability in deployed environments: Comfortable operating in austere, high-tempo conditions with minimal oversight 
• Team leadership & communication: Effectively communicates with teammates and customers, contributes to team cohesion, and begins mentoring junior AVOs

Required Qualifications:

• Prior military service, particularly with overseas or deployed operations 
• Minimum of 1000 documented unmanned flight hours or 500 manned flight hours
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate 
• Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Class II Medical Certificate 
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret DoD security clearance 
• Ability to pass background check, drug screening, and customer-required medical/dental screenings 
• Willingness to travel up to 50–75% in support of CONUS and OCONUS deployments 

Preferred Qualifications:

• FAA Private Pilot License (PPL) 
• Experience operating as aircrew on manned aircraft 
• Maritime or shipboard UAS operational experience 

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Full-time regular employee offer package: Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity   Temporary employee offer package: Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)   Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.   ###   Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.