Army MOS · Aviation
15W Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems (TUAS) Operator
Overview
Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operators remotely pilot unmanned aircraft and complete required checks and procedures before, during, and after flight. They select and prepare operating sites, deploy air vehicles and ground equipment, support launch and recovery, execute reconnaissance and security missions, and perform limited unit level maintenance on communications equipment, power sources, and wheeled vehicles.
Minimum clearance: Secret
Core Skills
- UAS flight operations
- Remote piloting and sensor operation
- Mission planning and briefing
- Geospatial analysis and map reading
- Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) collection
- Pre-flight and post-flight inspection procedures
- Ground control station operations
- Radio communications and datalink management
- Troubleshooting electro-mechanical systems
- Risk management and safety procedures
Civilian Software & Tools
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- C++
- Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Linux
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
Civilian Career Paths
- Unmanned Systems
- Geospatial Intelligence
- Intelligence Analysis
- Aviation Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Remote Pilot
- FAA Part 107 Small UAS Certificate
- ASTM NCATT Foreign Object Elimination (FOE)
- Aircraft Dispatcher
Career Growth
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP) · Funded · Promotion points
- Commercial Pilot, Airplane Single Engine (ASE) Rating
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) · Funded · Promotion points
Also Common
- AUVSI Trusted Operator Program Certificate
What the Work Involves
- Test performance of electromechanical assemblies, using test instruments such as oscilloscopes, electronic voltmeters, or bridges.
- Install or program computer hardware or machine or instrumentation software in microprocessor-based systems.
- Read blueprints, schematics, diagrams, or technical orders to determine methods and sequences of assembly.
- Modify, maintain, or repair electrical, electronic, or mechanical components, equipment, or systems to ensure proper functioning.
- Inspect parts for surface defects.
Related Occupations
- Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
- Avionics Technicians
- Calibration Technologists and Technicians
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into 15W. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
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Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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