Domain Expert/Principal SME - UAS, AAM, and New Entrant Integration

Position: Domain Expert / Principal SME - UAS, AAM, and New Entrant Integration

Function: SME Knowledge in FAA operations & Airspace Integration

Location: Remote Site/Cobec Site - DC

Remote Work Option: Yes

Work Type: Part-time, Flexible hours

Salary Range: Pro-rated hourly based on an annualized salary range of$175K-$200K, calculated using 2080 hours/year

Culture

Cobec is consistently breaking the current mold for delivering services to our government clients. What does that mean? That means believing in a "people first" mentality, building high performance teams and empowering people to make informed decisions without going through a large bureaucratic system. Cobec values the well-being of employees and bestows tremendous trust in those people to negotiate work and non-work obligations. Cobec is where someone can bring their whole self to work and be themselves, never having to compromise their authenticity just to fit in. Lastly, we believe in the work we do, the goals and missions of our customers and the interpersonal relationships we have with clients, stakeholders and our people.

Values and Expectations

The successful candidate for this role embodies the same values as Cobec. We realize experience is important, however; Cobec believes a person's abilities and skills that align with our values (Relationships, Leadership, Passion, Accountability, Integrity, Innovation, Quality, Teamwork, Diversity, Commitment, & Respect) are the most important drivers for success in this role.

In addition to exhibiting our values, a successful candidate for this role is expected to be a high performer, organized, dynamic, and have a positive attitude.

Years of Relevant Experience

Candidates should bring a minimum of 20 years of professional experience in aviation, including extensive work in UAS, AAM, airspace integration, and regulatory engagement. The ideal candidate will also have experience leading interagency efforts, driving innovation, and supporting both domestic and international aviation research and development initiatives

Job Summary

This position provides strategic and technical leadership in the integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), and other new entrants into the National Airspace System (NAS). The role supports FAA and other key clients such as NTSB, while also helping to expand Cobec's footprint into new markets, including international opportunities. The position is also responsible for mentoring internal staff, leading interagency collaboration efforts, and contributing to strategic business development and visibility

Essential Job Functions

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from this position if the work is similar, related, and/or a logical assignment for this position. Other duties may be required and assigned.

New Entrant & Airspace Integration:

* Provide subject matter expertise in integrating UAS, AAM, and other new entrants into the NAS.

* Advise on regulatory frameworks, risk-based safety cases, rulemaking, operational concepts, and standards development.

* Lead the development and implementation of Interagency Agreements (IAAs) supporting FAA and other stakeholder collaboration.

* Provide support and insight to FAA senior leadership-particularly in the AUS office-on integration strategies, research initiatives, and safety oversight.

Strategic Expansion & Business Development:

* Represent Cobec at national and international industry events, enhancing visibility and expanding networks.

* Identify and pursue new client opportunities (including NTSB and international authorities).

* Guide Cobec's international expansion efforts in emerging aviation markets and regulatory environments.

* Assist with shaping proposals and positioning Cobec as a leader in aviation innovation.

Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing:

* Mentor junior staff and provide thought leadership within Cobec's Centers of Excellence.

* Contribute to internal learning initiatives and culture-building activities.

Education Requirements

Graduate degree

Skills and Qualifications Requirements

• Extensive experience with FAA operations and UAS/AAM integration.
• Deep knowledge of regulatory landscapes, safety risk frameworks, and interagency coordination.
• Demonstrated success in policy and standards development with organizations such as RTCA, ASTM, and ICAO.
• Proven record of public speaking, collaboration, and representing government or private sector organizations in high-visibility forums.
• Strong analytical, writing, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Commitment to mentoring and growing the next generation of aviation leaders.

Security Requirements

* Must be a US citizen

* Must meet eligibility requirements for a US Public Trust security clearance

Travel

Occasional travel required as needed by client/s and/or company

EEO

Cobec Consulting, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other status protected by federal, state and local law.

EEO is the Law