Expert - ATM Operational Validation (OV)

The General Civil Aviation Authority; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A national aviation authority is seeking a certified Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO) with expertise in En-Route operations. The successful candidate will lead ATM operational test and validation activities, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure system readiness and compliance with regulatory requirements. Strong analytical skills and UAE airspace familiarity are essential. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to vital aviation projects in the UAE.

Qualifications

• Specialization in En-Route operations.
• Proven operational experience as an ATCO within the UAE.
• Experience in ATM system validation and testing.

Responsibilities

• Lead ATM operational test, verification, and validation activities.
• Collaborate with ATC experts and engineering personnel.
• Support operational systems integration and transition activities.

Skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Excellent communication

Stakeholder engagement capabilities

Attention to detail

Education

Certified Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO)

Job description

Key Responsibilities

Lead and oversee the strategy, planning, execution, and continuous improvement of ATM operational test, verification, and validation activities.

Provide subject matter expertise in the operational validation of ATM systems, ensuring alignment with project goals and regulatory requirements.

Support operational systems integration and transition activities, ensuring seamless progression into live operational environments.

Collaborate within a cross‑functional team composed of ATC operational experts and engineering personnel to ensure effective integration and validation outcomes.

Serve as the primary operational liaison between project teams and GCAA subject matter experts including Flight Data Processing (FDP) Adaptation, CNS Specialists, and R&D Officers, as well as external system suppliers.

Participate in all project phases, including (but not limited to):

Planning and management of system and software operational V&V activities.

Validation of operational requirements and design.

Review and validation of operational acceptance test procedures and test tools.

Support for system integration and operational readiness assessment.

Guidance to operations teams to ensure operational preparedness for system go‑live.

Additional Responsibilities

Incorporate and promote best practices related to Human Factors, Safety Assurance, Quality Assurance, and Configuration Management throughout all project lifecycle stages.

Provide additional consultancy support and services as required by GCAA for the NGATM program and any related projects.

Qualifications and Experience

Certified Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO) with specialization in En‑Route operations.

Proven operational experience as an ATCO within the UAE and/or strong familiarity with UAE airspace structure and procedures.

Demonstrated experience in ATM system validation, testing, and transition processes.

Strong understanding of ATM project lifecycle and the interdependencies across operational and engineering domains.

Experience working in collaborative environments with multidisciplinary stakeholders.

Competencies

Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities.

Ability to work independently and as part of a mixed operational and technical team.

High attention to detail with a commitment to quality and safety.