Overview

Unmanned aerial vehicle operators are remote pilot of unmanned observation aircrafts that gather intelligence used in operational tactics. As 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 aerial vehicle 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 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
  

Required ASVAB Score(s)

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.

Future Civilian Careers

The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with federal government agencies such as the Central Intelligence Agency or the National Security Agency. It can also prepare you for other fields such as research or business planning.