K-State UAS Maintenance Technologist/UAS Pilot
The K-State Polytechnic Campus is seeking a UAS Engineering Technologist (mechanic)/Pilot. The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) degree program, the fastest growing area of academic study on the polytechnic campus, shares with the affiliated applied research laboratory an international reputation for excellence in UAS teaching and research. The successful candidate will serve as the lead mechanical technician and UAS pilot.
Information about the Department:
More information on the UAS Program can be found at http://polytechnic.k-state.edu/aviation/uas/
Diversity and Inclusion:
Kansas State University embraces diversity, and promotes inclusion in every sector of the institution. The university established the Office of Diversity, led by the associate vice president for diversity and a dedicated staff. Additionally, each college has a designated Diversity Point Person to provide insight and guidance.
Kansas State University received the prestigious Higher Education Excellence in Diversity, or HEED, award from Insight Into Diversity magazine for the past three years. Multicultural students account for 15 percent of our student population, a university record and continuing trend.
Job Description:
Provides technical electrical and mechanical troubleshooting support to UAS operations. Interfaces with customers for technical discussion. Interprets, utilizes, and documents technical data and writes reports to support research and development. Provides daily maintenance and preparation of associated flight assets and ground support equipment. Develops and executes standard operating procedures for maintenance and inspections. Maintains UAS configuration and status records (UAS aircraft records).
Performs a variety of complex tasks in design, development, qualification, modification, troubleshooting, fabrication and testing of prototypes. Supervises students/student workers in lab and manages lab projects. Engages in complex autopilot integration, detailed composite fabrication and repair.
UAS Pilot or Flight Instructor. Supports UAS flight operations in multiple aircrew positions, including payload operator, visual observer, Air Vehicle Operator and External Pilot. Develops content, including flight scenarios, for the UAS flight simulators. Provides technical support to UAS flight simulator users. Interfaces with manufacturers regarding bugs, upgrades and systems changes. Provides technical support on grants and projects. Interfaces with customers for project-specific needs and requests. Performs mechanical fabrication, utilizing machine tools as needed. Inventories items, maintains flight batteries, and documents activities in accordance with standard operating procedures. Flight-tests developing systems.
Researches and evaluates possible platforms, payloads, autopilots and new/possible UAS technologies. Orders shop supplies, UAV parts and equipment.
Records and updates UAS department inventory.
Assists UAS students in lab as needed. Assists with lab tours and other external events as time permits. Advised the K-State polytechnic UAS Club.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) or Private Pilot certificate. We can consider candidates without these, but completion of an RPIC is required prior to employment start date
- Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Aviation Maintenance, or equivalent
- United States Citizenship as required by Technology Control Plan
- Knowledge of ITAR and EAR (export controls)
- Ability to work from engineering prints, schematics and parts list
- Must be able to occasionally travel
Preferred Qualifications:
- FAA Airframe & Power plant (A&P) Certification
- Master’s degree in aircraft maintenance, aviation, engineering or related field
- Private Pilot Certificate
- Familiarity with advanced composite fabrication and repair, small gas engine maintenance, general electronic systems troubleshooting, classroom and lab technical experience
- Strong background in multi-rotor and fixed-wing RC or UAS flight operations preferred with extensive experience in building, maintaining, modifying these systems
Physical Activities and Environmental Conditions:
Stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, fingering, grasping, climbing, or balance, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, talking, visual. Computer telephone calculator, and vehicle unmanned vehicles. Must be able to use standard electronic lab equipment and manipulate UAS lab equipment as required including the ability to lift 50 pounds.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Apply electronically only through the Kansas State University’s Career Opportunities webpage at http://careers.k-state.edu/cw/en-us/listing/
Upload a letter of interest, complete resume, and the names and contact information of three current, professional references.
Screening of Applications Begins:
Screening of applicants begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.
Salary Range / Pay Rate:
$40,000-$64,000 DOQ
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans and actively seeks diversity among its employees. Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law.
Background Screening Statement:
In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University may procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.
