Global UAS Chief Pilot: Flight Ops & Safety Leader

Syos Aerospace; Mount Maunganui; On-site; NZD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Syos Aerospace in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, seeks a Chief Pilot to lead and manage all UAS flight operations. The role oversees pilot training, safety, compliance, and global operations standards, with travel required for demonstrations and international missions.

You will guide flight crew competency, set operating procedures, and interact with regulators and customers to ensure safe, compliant operations.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in aviation with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Extensive knowledge of UAS operations, regulations, and flight safety management (NZ CAA Part 102, SORA, or equivalent).
• UAS pilot qualifications and RC piloting experience desirable.
• Strong track record in team leadership, training, and competency management.
• Willingness to travel worldwide for operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the company's flight crew, ensuring training, competency, and regulatory currency are maintained.
• Develop and oversee flight training programs for internal pilots and external customers.
• Establish and enforce flight operations policies, safety protocols, and standard operating procedures.
• Manage flight authorisations and ensure compliance with NZ CAA Part 102, SORA, and international regulations.
• Plan, coordinate, and supervise global flight operations, including trials, demonstrations, and customer training.
• Provide operational oversight and act as the final authority on flight safety and risk management.
• Liaise with regulators, partners, and customers to ensure smooth approvals and safe operations.
• Maintain knowledge of emerging technologies, regulations, and best practices in UAS operations.
• When required, operate UAS directly for trials, demonstrations, and high-profile missions.

Skills

Leadership

Training

Regulatory knowledge

Decision making

Communication

Job description

Syos Aerospace in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, seeks a Chief Pilot to lead and manage all UAS flight operations. The role oversees pilot training, safety, compliance, and global operations standards, with travel required for demonstrations and international missions.

You will guide flight crew competency, set operating procedures, and interact with regulators and customers to ensure safe, compliant operations.