a16z Standardization Pilot (R4736)
Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit . Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
Are you a motivated, energetic, and ambitious elite former military pilot looking to work on the cutting edge of military aviation? Are you interested in helping to build the world's best AI pilot? Are you looking to work for a company that has purpose and compelling vision?
We are currently seeking a Standardization Pilot to join our team to define best practices for flight operations. You must be highly organized, extremely collaborative and an excellent influencer. You will collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Training, Support, Deployed Operations, and Leadership Teams. You must be team player with an extremely high bar.
What you'll do:
- Execute V-BAT flight operations in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and regulatory requirements
- Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in V-BAT system operations, contributing to standardization efforts across teams
- Assist in the development, validation, and continuous improvement of SOPs, checklists, and training materials
- Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight procedures with strict adherence to safety and quality standards
- Support training and evaluation of pilots to ensure consistency in operational execution
- Collaborate with engineering, operations, and training teams to identify gaps and drive process improvements
- Participate in test events, demonstrations, and customer-facing operations as required
- Maintain accurate flight logs, reports, and documentation in compliance with company and regulatory standards
- Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and other applicable governing bodies
Required qualifications:
- Current or prior UAS pilot experience (Group 3–5 preferred) or equivalent military aviation experience
- Strong understanding of aviation principles, flight safety, and mission planning
- Experience operating in standardized or highly procedural environments
- Ability to follow and enforce strict operational protocols
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Willingness to travel and support field operations as needed
Preferred qualifications:
- Experience with V-BAT or similar platforms
- Military background in aviation (e.g., UAV operator, pilot, or aircrew)
- Instructor pilot or evaluator experience
- Familiarity with FAA Part 107 and/or COA operations
- Experience in test, evaluation, or operational standardization roles
#LI-JM1
#LE
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.