MQ-9 Simulator Console Operator

MQ-9 Simulator Console Operator (SCO)

Client: USAF 25th ATKG
Location: Ellsworth AFB, SD (<10 miles from Rapid City, SD)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Clearance Required: Top Secret / SCI

Mission Overview

The Simulator Console Operator (SCO) is a frontline enabler of USAF MQ-9 combat readiness. In this role, you are not observing training, you are driving it. Every simulator event you execute directly shapes the decision-making, tactics, and survivability of combat aircrews preparing for real-world operations.

Assigned in direct support of the 25th Attack Group, the SCO delivers high-fidelity, threat-representative training during MQ-9 Desktop Trainer (DTT) and Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) events. You will operate at the center of dynamic, fast-paced missions supporting Mission Control Element (MCE), Launch and Recovery Element (LRE), Emergency Procedures, Weapons School preparation, continuation training, and large-force employment scenarios.

This position is ideal for experienced MQ-9 professionals who want to remain operational, influence the next generation of aircrew, and operate at the cutting edge of distributed airpower training.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute and control MQ-9 simulator missions that replicate real-world combat operations across multiple domains
• Configure, load, and dynamically adjust simulator scenarios to meet instructor-directed training objectives
• Deliver real-time tactical inputs that challenge aircrews and force decisive action under pressure
• Maintain continuous mission oversight during simulator events to ensure realism, safety, and training value
• Troubleshoot and resolve simulator, network, and DMO issues alongside engineering and OEM support teams
• Program complex mission profiles using MACE and follow-on mission planning tools
• Operate as white-cell command and control, replicating adversary forces, joint partners, civilian traffic, and external agencies
• Execute coordinated voice, chat, and mIRC injects to drive decision-making and mission realism
• Link multiple MQ-9 simulators to support multi-ship and large-force employment training
• Provide direct feedback and mission data to instructors and aircrews during post-mission debriefs
• Support high-visibility events including Weapons School spin-ups, evaluations, test programs, mishap investigations, and senior leader demonstrations

Minimum Qualification

• Minimum two (2) years’ experience as one or more of the following:
  • MQ-9 Pilot
  • MQ-9 Sensor Operator
  • MQ-9 Simulator / Console Operator
• Deep understanding of MQ-9 operational employment and training environments
• Ability to perform in a secure, high-tempo mission training environment
• Active Top Secret / SCI clearance

Desired Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting ATKG, FTU, or Weapons School training
• Experience executing DMO or large-force employment scenarios
• Strong situational awareness and the ability to think tactically in real time

Why This Role Matters

Aircrews don’t rise to the occasion — they fall back on their training.
As an SCO, you shape that training.

Your work directly impacts combat readiness, mission success, and lives downrange. If you want to stay connected to the fight, influence operational excellence, and be part of an elite training mission, this is where you belong.

MQ-9 Simulator Console Operator (SCO)

Client: USAF 25th ATKG
Location: Ellsworth AFB, SD (<10 miles from Rapid City, SD)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Clearance Required: Top Secret / SCI

Mission Overview

The Simulator Console Operator (SCO) is a frontline enabler of USAF MQ-9 combat readiness. In this role, you are not observing training, you are driving it. Every simulator event you execute directly shapes the decision-making, tactics, and survivability of combat aircrews preparing for real-world operations.

Assigned in direct support of the 25th Attack Group, the SCO delivers high-fidelity, threat-representative training during MQ-9 Desktop Trainer (DTT) and Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) events. You will operate at the center of dynamic, fast-paced missions supporting Mission Control Element (MCE), Launch and Recovery Element (LRE), Emergency Procedures, Weapons School preparation, continuation training, and large-force employment scenarios.

This position is ideal for experienced MQ-9 professionals who want to remain operational, influence the next generation of aircrew, and operate at the cutting edge of distributed airpower training.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute and control MQ-9 simulator missions that replicate real-world combat operations across multiple domains
• Configure, load, and dynamically adjust simulator scenarios to meet instructor-directed training objectives
• Deliver real-time tactical inputs that challenge aircrews and force decisive action under pressure
• Maintain continuous mission oversight during simulator events to ensure realism, safety, and training value
• Troubleshoot and resolve simulator, network, and DMO issues alongside engineering and OEM support teams
• Program complex mission profiles using MACE and follow-on mission planning tools
• Operate as white-cell command and control, replicating adversary forces, joint partners, civilian traffic, and external agencies
• Execute coordinated voice, chat, and mIRC injects to drive decision-making and mission realism
• Link multiple MQ-9 simulators to support multi-ship and large-force employment training
• Provide direct feedback and mission data to instructors and aircrews during post-mission debriefs
• Support high-visibility events including Weapons School spin-ups, evaluations, test programs, mishap investigations, and senior leader demonstrations

Minimum Qualification

• Minimum two (2) years’ experience as one or more of the following:
  • MQ-9 Pilot
  • MQ-9 Sensor Operator
  • MQ-9 Simulator / Console Operator
• Deep understanding of MQ-9 operational employment and training environments
• Ability to perform in a secure, high-tempo mission training environment
• Active Top Secret / SCI clearance

Desired Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting ATKG, FTU, or Weapons School training
• Experience executing DMO or large-force employment scenarios
• Strong situational awareness and the ability to think tactically in real time

Why This Role Matters

Aircrews don’t rise to the occasion — they fall back on their training.
As an SCO, you shape that training.

Your work directly impacts combat readiness, mission success, and lives downrange. If you want to stay connected to the fight, influence operational excellence, and be part of an elite training mission, this is where you belong.