UAV Operator (Flight Mission Planner)

Precision AI Inc.; Calgary; Hybrid; CAD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid schedule

US travel opportunities

Calgary base

Job summary

Precision AI Inc. in Calgary, AB, is seeking a UAV Operator (Flight Mission Planner) to plan, configure, monitor and execute UAV missions via Ground Control Station, coordinating with the External Pilot (PIC) to manage ArduPilot-based flight plans, telemetry, and in-mission adjustments for safe, precise spray operations.

The role blends hands-on software proficiency with field operations, requires travel within Canada and to the US for testing and flights, and emphasizes situational awareness,

Qualifications

• Strong hands-on experience with ArduPilot.
• Experience operating a Ground Control Station for UAVs or autonomous aircraft.
• Experience monitoring and interpreting telemetry, logs, and system diagnostics.
• Experience with data analysis, log uploads, and flight data administration.

Responsibilities

• Mission Planning & GCS Operations: own ArduPilot setup and operation for flight missions.
• Systems, Equipment & Readiness: configure and verify GCS hardware before missions.
• Team Collaboration & Communication: maintain clear, calm communication during live missions.

Skills

Mission planner

Technical aptitude

Operational judgment

Team orientation

Adaptability

Tools

ArduPilot

Ground Control Station

Job description

Role Overview

TheUAV Operator (Flight Mission Planner)is responsible forplanning, configuring,monitoring, and executing Precision AI’s UAV missions through the Ground Control Station (GCS). Working in close coordination with theExternal Pilot (PIC), you will manageArduPilot–based flight plans, system health, telemetry, and in-mission adjustments to ensure safe, precise, and efficient spray operations.The UAV Operator plays a critical role in mission success by combining strong software proficiency withoperational judgment and tight team communication.

This role is based inCalgary, AB, with a flexible hybrid schedule that includes office work, remote coordination, and frequent travel for both spray operations and testing.Comfort traveling to the US for extended periods of time (2-4 weeks) as well as a valid Canadian passport arerequired.

Key Responsibilities

• Mission Planning & GCS Operations
  • OwnArduPilotsetup and operation for all flight missions
  • Build,validate, and adjust flight plans, waypoints, geofences, and mission parameters
  • Monitor live telemetry, system health, GPS, battery, payload, andfailsafesduring flight
  • Execute mission start, pause, resume, abort, and contingency workflows in coordination with the External Pilot
  • Maintain constant situational awareness and provide real-time inputs to the Pilot in Command
• Systems, Equipment & Readiness
  • Configure and verify GCS hardware, radios, antennas, and software prior to missions
  • Conduct pre- and post-flight system checks and log anomalies or performance issues
  • Assist with UAV setup, calibration, payload configuration, and teardown
  • Support testing and integration of newaircraftconfigurations, payloads, and software updates
• Team Collaboration & Communication
  • Maintain clear, calm, and precise communication during live missions
  • Provide structured feedback on mission performance, system behavior, and process improvements
  • Work closely with engineering, flight ops, and training teams to improve reliability and repeatability
  • Contribute to a team culture built on trust, discipline, and shared responsibility for safety

Relevant Experience (Ideal Candidate Background)

• Strong hands-on experience withArduPilot
• Prior experienceoperatinga Ground Control Station for UAV or autonomousaircraft
• Experience monitoring and interpreting telemetry, logs, and system diagnostics
• Experience with data analysis, log uploads, and flight data administration

What You Bring

• Mission Planner Expertise:Confident building and managing complex missions in live environments
• Technical Aptitude:Comfortable troubleshooting software, comms, and system-level issues in the field
• Operational Judgment:Able to stay calm, focused, and decisive during high-pressure missions
• Team Orientation:Works seamlessly with pilots, crew, and leadership
• Adaptability:Comfortable traveling, working outdoors, and adjusting plans in real time

Bonus Points

• Experience with fixed-wing RC models or autonomous aircraft integration
• Exposure to agricultural UAV operations, industrial drones, or field-based autonomous systems is a plus