
Advanced Drone Operator at Allen Control Systems (Austin, TX)
Allen Control Systems· Austin, TX·
Job description
Company Overview:
Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup, founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.
With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders' successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop will have a real-world impact.
Position Overview:
We are expanding our flight operations capability and opening a new role for a highly skilled drone operator who is experienced in building, configuring, and flying advanced UAV systems. This person will play a key role in executing flight tests, evaluating drone performance, and supporting real-world operational requirements. You will serve as an additional Part 107 certified pilot to meet our growing testing and mission needs.
What You'll Do:
- Operate and maintain drones for testing, evaluation, and operational missions.
- Plan and execute complex flight missions using Mission Planner and Beta Flight.
- Build, configure, and troubleshoot drone hardware and software systems.
- Collaborate with engineering and data teams to collect and validate aerial data for computer vision model training.
- Conduct flight tests to evaluate performance and integrate feedback into drone design and operational procedures.
- Document flight operations, maintain detailed logs, and support mission debriefs.
What You'll Need:
- Part 107 certified pilot.
- Hands-on experience in printing, building, and flying drones for offensive operations.
- Operational understanding of how drones are being used in current conflicts around the world.
- Proficient in Mission Planner and Beta Flight for mission planning and drone control.
- Familiarity with data collection and integration into computer vision or analytics workflows.
- 3+ years of relevant drone operation or robotics experience.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in dynamic, experimental environments.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary
- ACS Equity Package
- Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
- Paid Time Off
Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Why work at Allen Control Systems
- Mission-Driven Impact: Employees work on a direct, tangible defense problem—protecting soldiers and bases from drone attacks. The work has immediate operational relevance.
- High-Growth Environment: The company is in a hyper-growth phase (261% headcount growth, $2.2B valuation), offering rapid career advancement and the excitement of scaling a company from early stage.
- Cutting-Edge Tech: The engineering team works on the intersection of robotics, AI, computer vision, and weapons systems. The tech stack includes modern tools (Docker, Kubernetes, SQL, Terraform, Unreal Engine for simulation).
- Talent Density: The company has attracted talent from top aerospace/defense firms (Firefly Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, L3Harris, Saronic) and tech companies (DoorDash), indicating a strong peer group.
- Work Policy: Roles are primarily on-site in Austin, TX (with some remote roles available, e.g., Technical Writer). The company has a strong physical manufacturing and testing component.
- Culture: Described as a robotics defense company purpose-built for a new era of drone warfare, emphasizing speed, innovation, and practical results. The leadership team is composed of veterans and engineers who value technical excellence.