Drone Training and Placement ( DigiYouth Africa)

MANCOSA PTY LTD; KwaZulu-Natal; Hybrid; ZAR 50 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A training organization in KwaZulu-Natal is seeking a Junior Pilot to undertake comprehensive drone operations training. After successful completion, candidates will be placed in relevant industry positions. Responsibilities include assisting with pre-flight preparations, operating unmanned aircraft under supervision, and maintaining compliance with operational guidelines. Candidates should have a Grade 12 education, be at least 18 years old, and have basic understanding of smartphones and GPS.

Qualifications

• 18 years at time of matriculation.
• Must be medically fit and pass a medical test.
• Clear criminal/background record check.

Responsibilities

• Assist with pre-flight preparations and confirm equipment readiness.
• Operate unmanned aircraft safely under supervision.
• Follow all operational guidelines and maintain compliance.

Skills

Basic understanding of smartphones, GPS, cameras

Excellent reading, speaking, and listening skills

Education

Grade 12

Job description

Job description

This programme includes comprehensive drone operations training, after which successful candidates will be placed in relevant industry positions.

Desired Experience & Qualification

• Grade 12
• 18 years at time of matriculation
• English

Competencies

• Basic understanding of smartphones, GPS, cameras
• Excellent reading, speaking, and listening skills

Requirements

• Medical test
• Criminal/background record check
• Valid ID

Nice to have

• Map reading/interpretation
• Basic weather reading and understanding
• Geography and math advantageous

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

1. Assist with pre-flight preparations by completing basic checks, confirming equipment readiness, and supporting mission planning under the guidance of a senior pilot or Chief Pilot.
2. Operate unmanned aircraft (UA) safely in accordance with company procedures, training, and regulatory requirements, while remaining under appropriate supervision.
3. Follow all operational guidelines outlined in the UAS Operations Manual (UOM) and maintain compliance with CARs Part 101 at all times.
4. Maintain situational awareness during flights, helping to identify obstacles, hazards, and potential airspace conflicts.
5. Support safe take-off and landing operations, ensuring the area is clear, suitable, and appropriately set up for the aircraft and mission.
6. Monitor aircraft systems and performance during flight and report any abnormalities or safety concerns to the supervising pilot immediately.
7. Assist in post-flight procedures, including data offloading, equipment inspections, battery management, and flight log updates.
8. Adhere to all safety protocols, reporting hazards, incidents, or near-misses to the Chief Pilot or Flight Operations Manager.
9. Participate in ongoing training to improve piloting skills, operational knowledge, and understanding of company procedures.
10. Support the UAS team with general operational tasks as assigned.
11. Stop or report any unsafe actions or conditions to a senior pilot or manager, and refuse to operate equipment if safety is compromised.
12. A Junior Pilot operates under the direct supervision of the Chief Pilot or designated senior pilot until they are deemed competent to conduct independent operations.
13. Responsibilities may be expanded gradually as the pilot gains experience and demonstrates proficiency.

Geographical Location

KZN

Office based or remote

Office and in the field