UAS Chief Pilot

SYOS Aerospace; Mount Maunganui; On-site; NZD 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

SYOS Aerospace seeks a Chief Pilot to lead global UAS flight operations, overseeing pilot training, flight safety, and regulatory compliance. This role involves international missions and demonstrations worldwide.

You will develop standards, manage authorisations, and ensure crews operate safely across diverse environments. A senior aviation background with strong leadership and communication skills is essential.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in aviation with leadership or supervisory experience.
• Extensive knowledge of UAS operations and aviation regulations.
• UAS pilot qualifications; RC piloting is a plus.
• Strong track record in training, safety, and risk management.
• Experience working with regulators and international stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the flight crew, ensuring training, competency, and currency.
• Develop and oversee flight training programs for internal pilots and customers.
• Establish and enforce flight operations policies and safety protocols.
• Manage authorisations and ensure compliance with NZ CAA Part 102, SORA, and international regs.
• Plan and supervise global flight operations, trials, demonstrations, and customer training.
• Provide operational oversight and final authority on flight safety and risk.
• Liaise with regulators, partners, and customers for approvals and safe operations.
• Stay current on emerging UAS technologies and regulations.
• When required, operate UAS for trials and demonstrations.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory knowledge

Flight operations

Training programs

Stakeholder management

Job description

SYOS is a fast-growing global robotics and aerospace company, driving the development of cutting-edge uncrewed vehicles (drones) across air, land, and sea for dual-use applications. We are committed to pushing technological boundaries and delivering exceptional products that consistently exceed customer expectations.

Job Summary

Please note, this role requires worldwide travel.

We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Chief Pilot to lead and manage all aspects of UAS flight operations. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing pilot training, flight safety, operational compliance, and the development of global flight operations standards. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring our flight crews operate safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with aviation regulations, while also directly contributing to demonstrations, trials, and international operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the company’s flight crew, ensuring training, competency, and regulatory currency are maintained.
• Develop and oversee flight training programs for both 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 aviation 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 up-to-date knowledge of emerging technologies, regulations, and best practices in UAS operations.
• When required, operate UAS directly for trials, demonstrations, and high-profile missions.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ experience 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 proven flying ability; RC piloting experience highly desirable.
• Strong track record in team leadership, training, and competency management.
• Deep understanding of aviation safety systems and risk management.
• Experience working with regulators, customers, and stakeholders in domestic and international environments.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and decision-making skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively worldwide for operations.

What We Offer

• A dynamic and fast-paced environment working on state-of-the-art autonomous vehicle technology.
• The opportunity to work alongside a team of highly skilled and awesome professionals

Location

This position is based in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. Known for its stunning surf beaches, vibrant culture, and a burgeoning tech scene, Mount Maunganui offers an excellent quality of life and a conducive environment for innovation.