UAV Flight Operator

Description

Summary: This role involves operating fixed-wing UAVs in demanding environments with precision and technical judgment, owning missions from preparation to post-flight analysis with a strong flight test mentality. Highlights: 1. Operate fixed-wing UAVs in demanding environments with high precision 2. Own missions from preparation to post-flight analysis 3. Revolutionize defense with cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles **About the role** Imagine being part of a flight operations team where every mission matters. From early\-morning checks to last\-light recoveries, you operate fixed\-wing UAVs in demanding environments where precision, reliability, and technical judgment are non\-negotiable. This role is not just about flying. It is about owning the aircraft, the ground control station, and the mission from preparation to post\-flight analysis, with a strong flight test mentality and hands\-on technical responsibility. At **Destinus**, we are revolutionizing the defense industry with cutting\-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles UAVs. Our innovative technologies are designed to meet the unique demands of modern defense operations, delivering unparalleled speed, precision, and cost effectiveness. **Destinus** partners with government agencies and defense organizations worldwide to provide advanced solutions for mission\-critical operations, enabling a new era of efficiency and technological superiority. Join us in shaping the future of defense with groundbreaking aerospace innovations. **What You´ll Do** * Operate and support fixed\-wing UAV missions in operational and test environments, acting as pilot, technician, and ground control station operator * Conduct pre\-flight planning including airspace coordination, weather analysis, system checks, and risk assessment * Perform launch, flight, and recovery of fixed\-wing UAVs in manual, assisted, and autonomous modes * Operate and manage ground control stations, datalinks, and communication systems during missions * Fly with a strong flight test mindset, executing test points and adapting profiles throughout the day when conditions allow * Operate EO/IR and visual payloads for surveillance, reconnaissance, mapping, and tracking * Ensure flight safety and regulatory compliance in VLOS and BVLOS operations * Maintain accurate flight logs, checklists, maintenance records, and system documentation * Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and field\-level repairs on UAV systems * Collaborate closely with engineers, mission planners, and data teams to improve aircraft performance and mission workflows * Travel frequently for training, test flights, and demonstrations, including deployments to safe operational zones * Operate from multiple bases including Spain, Netherlands, Portugal, Germany, Switzerland, and safe zones in Ukraine * Remain abroad for extended periods when mission requirements demand it **Requirements** **What You’ll Need** * At least 3 years of experience flying fixed\-wing UAVs in manual and autonomous modes * Hands\-on experience operating ground control stations and mission systems * Valid UAV flight certifications A1, A2, A3, and Specific * Proven operational or flight test experience in reconnaissance, surveillance, or experimental flight environments * Strong technical knowledge of UAV avionics, telemetry, electronics, datalinks, and communication architectures * Experience working as a technician\-operator hybrid in production or operational environments * Familiarity with European airspace regulations and operational procedures * Flexibility to conduct multiple flights per day depending on operational needs * Ability to work in remote, offshore, or high\-pressure environments * Strong situational awareness, communication skills, and safety\-driven decision making * Experience with catapult systems and rocket engines for UAV launch is highly valued * Fluency in English with Spanish, French, German or any other language are a plus **Who You Are** * You are a hands\-on operator with a strong technical and flight test mindset * You are comfortable flying fixed\-wing UAVs manually and not multirotor platforms * You feel at ease operating ground control stations and solving technical issues in real time * You are adaptable, autonomous, and ready to fly whenever conditions allow * You value discipline, safety, and precision in every mission * You take ownership of both the aircraft and the mission outcome