The UAV Pilot Team Lead is responsible for leading day-to-day flight operations of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant execution of test flights, demonstrations, and commercial missions. This role supports operational excellence, contributes to revenue generation through reliable mission delivery, and ensures alignment with safety and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Team Management
- Lead and supervise UAV pilots and flight operations personnel
- Plan daily flight schedules, assignments, and mission priorities
- Provide coaching, training, and performance management for team members
Flight Operations
- Execute and oversee UAV flight operations including testing, demonstrations, and commercial missions
- Ensure compliance with operational procedures, safety standards, and regulatory requirements
- Monitor flight performance and mission outcomes to ensure high reliability
Safety and Compliance
- Enforce Safety Management System (SMS) practices and promote a zero-incident culture
- Conduct risk assessments and ensure mitigation measures are implemented
- Ensure adherence to GCAA and international UAV regulations
Quality and Performance
- Maintain high mission success rates and on-time performance (OTP)
- Identify operational issues and implement corrective actions
- Support continuous improvement initiatives in flight operations
Collaboration and Support
- Work closely with R&D, Engineering, and Production teams to support testing and development
- Assist in customer demonstrations and operational deployments
- Coordinate with regulatory authorities for approvals and compliance
Documentation and Reporting
- Maintain accurate flight logs, reports, and operational records
- Provide regular performance updates to management
External Stakeholders
- Regulatory authorities (GCAA, FAA equivalents, international UAS bodies)
- Customers and partners for demonstrations and operations
- Vendors/suppliers for UAV systems and support services
- Industry bodies and certification agencies
- Air navigation service providers (ANSPs), UAE air traffic control entities
Contribution
- Supports revenue generation through reliable flight operations and successful mission execution
- Contributes to R&D progress through effective flight testing and feedback
- Ensures high safety standards and operational efficiency
- Strengthens team capability through leadership and training
Qualifications
Academic / Professional
- Bachelor's degree in Aviation, Aeronautical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
- UAV pilot certification (GCAA / FAA Part 107 or equivalent)
- Additional safety or aviation certifications preferred
Experience
- 5–8 years of progressive experience in aviation operations, with at least 3–5 years in unmanned aerial systems (UAS/UAV) or drone operations
- Minimum 2–3 years in a supervisory or team lead role
- Experience in UAV flight operations, testing, and mission execution
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance and safety systems
Technical / Functional Competencies
- Strong knowledge of UAV systems, flight planning, and mission execution
- Understanding of airspace regulations and safety practices
- Ability to analyze flight data and improve operational performance
- Strong coordination and cross-functional collaboration skills
Behavioral Competencies
- Leadership and team development
- Safety-first mindset
- Strong communication and coordination
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Adaptability in dynamic environments
Additional Conditions
Performance & KPIs
- Mission success rate
- Safety compliance and incident reduction
- Flight performance and reliability
- Team performance and operational efficiency
Working Conditions
- Based in Abu Dhabi with travel for operations and testing
- May require extended hours during missions
Compliance
- Adherence to all company policies, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements
