Aerostat Operator I

About the role

Aerostat Operators provide Operations and Sustainment (O&S) support for the Persistent Surveillance Systems – Tethered (PSS‑T) program at OCONUS sites. The role involves hands‑on operation of a tethered aerostat ISR platform, including launch, in‑flight, recovery and mooring activities, as well as user‑level maintenance of associated equipment.

Key responsibilities

• Operate the PGSS/PTDS aerostat‑mounted ISR platform, Mobile Mooring Platform, sensor payloads, communications and navigation systems.
• Perform launch, in‑flight, recovery and moored activities for the aerostat.
• Operate support equipment such as boom lifts, forklifts, all‑terrain vehicles and electrical power generators.
• Conduct user‑level maintenance: preventive maintenance checks and services (PMCS), troubleshooting, LRU replacement and payload handling.
• Work under the direction of senior technicians and site personnel, adapting quickly to new situations.

Required profile

• High school diploma or equivalent; an associate’s degree in a technical field may substitute for experience.
• Active Secret US Government Clearance or ability to obtain one (US citizenship required).
• Valid US passport (minimum one year) and driver’s license.
• Knowledge of hardware system operations, fault detection, isolation and correction.
• Experience reading electronic schematics and repairing printed circuit boards.
• At least 1 year aerostat experience or 2 years in related electrical maintenance roles; military MOS equivalents are acceptable.

Required skills

• Aerostat operation and handling.
• Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS).
• Troubleshooting and fault isolation.
• Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) replacement.
• Payload installation and removal.
• Use of hardware diagnostic testing tools.
• Reading electronic circuit schematics.
• Printed circuit board (PCB) repair.
• Operation of boom lifts, forklifts, ATVs and generators.