Company Description WingXpand is advancing what’s possible with autonomous systems through its innovative 8-foot smart plane that expands from a backpack. The company’s technology helps farmers increase crop yield, supports public safety officials in responding to disasters more quickly, and enhances safety for soldiers in the field. WingXpand focuses on practical, mission-driven applications of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that deliver real-world impact. Team members collaborate in a dynamic environment that blends aerospace engineering, robotics, and data-driven operations. The company offers opportunities to work on cutting-edge UAS solutions that serve critical industries and communities.
Role Description The Lead UAS Pilot and Trainer is a full-time, on-site role based in the Greater Chicago Area. This position is responsible for planning, conducting, and supervising UAS flight operations, including mission preparation, checklists, equipment setup, and safe execution of flights in diverse environments. The role includes training new and existing team members on UAS systems, flight procedures, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance, as well as developing training materials and standard operating procedures. The Lead UAS Pilot and Trainer will coordinate with engineering, operations, and customer teams to tailor missions to agricultural, public safety, and defense use cases, and will document flight results, maintenance logs, and incident reports. Day-to-day tasks also involve maintaining airworthiness of the UAS fleet, monitoring firmware and software updates, supporting customer demonstrations, and ensuring adherence to FAA and company policies.
Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in UAS operations, including mission planning, manual and autonomous flight control, and in-field troubleshooting.
• Experience developing and delivering training programs, including creating curricula, conducting hands-on instruction, and assessing pilot proficiency.
• Strong understanding of aviation safety practices, risk management, and compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., FAA Part 107 or equivalent certifications).
• Technical aptitude with UAS hardware and software, including payload integration, data collection workflows, and basic maintenance of airframes and ground control systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead teams, coordinate with cross-functional stakeholders, and represent the company in customer-facing demonstrations.
• Ability to work on-site in the Greater Chicago Area, travel to field locations as needed, and operate in outdoor and variable conditions.
• Relevant experience in agriculture, public safety, defense, or other UAS mission domains is highly beneficial.
• Bachelor’s degree in a technical, aviation, or related field, or equivalent practical experience in UAS operations and training.