Adjunct Faculty - UMS (Manual Flight and Maintenance)

Virginia Peninsula Community College (VPCC) is a renowned two-year higher education institution that forms part of Virginia's comprehensive statewide community college system. Situated in Hampton, Virginia, its educational services primarily cater to residents from Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, Williamsburg, as well as the counties of James City and York. Established with a vision to provide accessible, affordable, and quality education, VPCC has grown its reputation as a pillar of community engagement and academic excellence in the region. Operating under the motto of empowering learners with practical knowledge and skills, Virginia Peninsula Community College offers diverse programs tailored to meet both academic and workforce demands. It integrates student-centered teaching philosophies with a commitment to nurturing diverse learners and fostering an inclusive environment. The college’s faculty are actively involved in shaping student success through innovative instructional methods, curriculum development, and steadfast support services. The role of Adjunct Faculty for the Unmanned Systems program, specializing in Manual Flight and Maintenance, at Virginia Peninsula Community College embodies a critical position that combines subject expertise with educational delivery. This is a part-time appointment designed for qualified professionals who possess a passion for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and a commitment to student-centered learning. The adjunct faculty member will teach courses such as Manual Flight (UMS 111) and Maintenance (UMS 177), with a teaching load contingent upon enrollment and institutional needs, typically up to 12 credit hours per fall and spring semester and up to 8 credit hours in the summer. Responsibilities encompass designing and delivering course instruction for day and evening classes, conducting student assessments and grading, maintaining an adequate on-campus presence for student support, and ensuring timely communication with students, staff, and administrators. The position demands flexibility in scheduling as classes may be held during the day, evening or weekends, and potentially on multiple campuses including Hampton and HT. This role requires proficiency in FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification and hands-on knowledge of pre-flight procedures, manual and autonomous sUAS flight missions, as well as the ability to manage flight planning, execution, crew coordination, maintenance, sensor integration, and data analysis. Candidates should have experience or demonstrated capability in operating in controlled airspace environments, performing troubleshooting on fixed-wing and multirotor platforms, and applying safety regulations specific to Virginia Tech standards for sUAS operations. In addition to technical competence, the successful adjunct faculty member must demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, a dedication to fostering a positive learning environment, and a willingness to adapt instructional methods to accommodate diverse student needs and modalities including online, hybrid, and traditional face-to-face settings. This position does not guarantee continued employment and is part of a standing pool used as scheduling needs arise. Compensation is commensurate with qualifications and experience, reflecting VPCC's commitment to recognizing the value of expertise and teaching excellence in enriching student experiences and outcomes.

• Associates degree in any field in science, engineering or technology
• Currently possess FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification
• Knowledgeable of necessary pre-flight training required
• Ability to plan and implement manual and autonomous sUAS missions
• Experience performing operations as Remote Pilot in Command
• Understanding of operating sUAS in FAA controlled airspace and Virginia Tech airspace
• Ability to serve as RPIC for manual and autonomous sUAS missions
• Knowledge of commercial and custom software for autonomous flights
• Familiarity with Virginia Tech safety regulations for sUAS
• Knowledge of fixed wing and multi-rotor aircraft requirements
• Skills in basic maintenance and sensor integration
• Ability to use mission planning and ground control software
• Ability to support service-learning missions
• Troubleshooting skills for electrical and mechanical issues
• Ability to conduct safe emergency recovery
• Passion for Unmanned Systems
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Commitment to a student-centered philosophy
• Willingness to serve diverse student populations
• Ability to modify instructional strategies
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Must be able to work at all campus locations