Multi-Site Drone Operations Manager

Edge Executive Search Group; eMalahleni; À distance; ZAR 600 000 - 900 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Paid time off

Home office stipend

Résumé du poste

Edge Executive Search Group is seeking a Senior Drone Operations Specialist to join a fully remote team. You will develop and optimize drone protocols, plan complex missions, and ensure safe, efficient deployments across industries from a home office.

The ideal candidate brings 7+ years in drone operations, SACAA Remote Pilot certification, and strong knowledge of airspace rules, flight planning software, and payloads like LiDAR and multispectral cameras.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent practical experience.
• 7+ years of drone operations experience, preferably commercial/industrial.
• Certified Remote Pilot with SACAA RPAS license or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of airspace regulations and flight planning tools.
• Experience with LiDAR and multispectral payloads.
• Excellent communication and remote-work abilities.

Responsabilités

• Develop and refine SOPs for drone operations compliant with aviation regulations (SACAA).
• Plan and execute complex drone missions across industries.
• Perform pre-flight planning including risk assessments and weather analysis.
• Provide remote operational support during active flights.
• Analyze flight data and generate reports on mission performance and findings.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of UAV tech and regulations.
• Collaborate with clients and teams to define mission objectives.
• Manage remote drone equipment inventory and maintenance.
• Train junior drone operators.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of safety protocols.

Connaissances

Drone operations

Airspace regulations

Flight planning

Data analysis

Remote collaboration

Communication

Formation

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Outils

Flight planning software

Drone telemetry

LiDAR payloads

Multispectral cameras

Description du poste

Senior Drone Operations Specialist (Remote)

Our client is a leading provider of advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) solutions, seeking a highly experienced Senior Drone Operations Specialist to join their fully remote team. In this role, you will be instrumental in developing, managing, and optimizing drone operational protocols and flight missions across various industries. You will leverage your extensive knowledge of UAV technology, airspace regulations, and mission planning to ensure safe, efficient, and effective drone deployments. This position offers the unique advantage of working from anywhere, providing flexibility while contributing to innovative projects. The ideal candidate is a self-starter, adept at remote collaboration, and possesses a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of commercial drone operations. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of aerial data collection and surveillance from the convenience of your home office.

About the Role

Our client is a leading provider of advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) solutions, seeking a highly experienced Senior Drone Operations Specialist to join their fully remote team. In this role, you will be instrumental in developing, managing, and optimizing drone operational protocols and flight missions across various industries. You will leverage your extensive knowledge of UAV technology, airspace regulations, and mission planning to ensure safe, efficient, and effective drone deployments. This position offers the unique advantage of working from anywhere, providing flexibility while contributing to innovative projects. The ideal candidate is a self-starter, adept at remote collaboration, and possesses a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of commercial drone operations. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of aerial data collection and surveillance from the convenience of your home office.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for drone flight operations, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations (e.g., SACAA in South Africa).
• Plan and execute complex drone missions for diverse applications, including aerial surveying, inspection, security, and delivery.
• Conduct pre-flight planning, including risk assessments, airspace analysis, and weather monitoring.
• Provide remote operational support and oversight during active drone flights.
• Analyze flight data and generate comprehensive reports on mission performance, findings, and recommendations.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of UAV technologies, regulations, and industry best practices.
• Collaborate effectively with clients, internal teams, and stakeholders to define mission objectives and ensure client satisfaction.
• Manage drone equipment inventory and maintenance schedules remotely.
• Train and mentor junior drone operators and operational staff as needed.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of drone operational efficiency and safety protocols.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Engineering, Geography, or a related field; or equivalent practical experience.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in drone operations and management, with a strong emphasis on commercial or industrial applications.
• Certified Remote Pilot (e.g., SACAA RPAS License or equivalent) with a proven record of safe flight operations.
• In-depth understanding of airspace regulations, flight planning software, and drone telemetry.
• Experience with various types of drones and sensor payloads (e.g., LiDAR, multispectral cameras).
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and deliver results independently.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.
• Access to a reliable internet connection and a suitable home office setup.

Benefits

• competitive salary commensurate with experience
• comprehensive health insurance coverage
• generous retirement savings plan
• opportunities for professional development, including advanced certifications and training
• ample paid time off
• stipend for home office setup and technology upgrades