Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Operator & Mission Planner

AALTO is a global leader in the stratosphere. We design, manufacture and offer Earth observation and connectivity services using our record-breaking Zephyr High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) solar-electric unmanned aircraft, capable of staying in the stratosphere for days, weeks, and months at a time. Powered entirely by the sun, Zephyr operates above 60,000 feet, high above conventional air traffic. As a new layer in Earth observation and connectivity ecosystems, Zephyr is positioned between satellites and more conventional terrestrial assets – filling in the operational gap between the two layers, while remaining a complementary solution capable of working in a system of systems. Services delivered with Zephyr can empower government and commercial customers with capabilities to see and sense or connect from the stratosphere – making a meaningful impact on the ground, from the skies.

Job purpose: We require people with aviation experience to operate the system as part of a multi-person crew. You will undergo 5 weeks of Operator Training and 4 weeks of Mission Planner Training, followed by advanced on-the-job instruction. Part of this time is spent in the simulator at our training facility in Farnborough UK, and on deployment at our AALTO Port. This is your opportunity to be part of an exciting aviation activity at the leading edge of global Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) operations.

Responsibilities:

• Flight planning, meteorology, system preparation and airspace management.
• System management and aircraft navigation from a ground control station.
• Enable compliance with all relevant aviation regulations and standards (e.g. CAA, KCAA) and maintain high standards of safety across all flight operations.
• General flight operations and support tasks.
• When not engaged in active flight operations, you will support a range of ground-based activities, including but not limited to, training, mission planning, system testing and design, flight data analysis, operational readiness and cross functional collaboration with engineering teams, operations and safety teams on site in Farnborough.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Experience and interest in operating unmanned aerial systems.
• Knowledge of national and international aviation regulations (e.g. CAA, KCAA).
• Proven ability to communicate clearly including under high pressure situations.
• Ability to travel and be deployed on projects internationally.
• Excellent analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to be able to interact at all levels with both military and civilian stakeholders.
• Demonstrate ability to make and implement complex risk-based decisions under pressure.
• Must pass a criminal background check with no open law violations.

To meet the minimum qualifications, you must:

• Be able to pass a CAA or FAA medical when required.
• Hold a current Remote Pilot Licence (RPL), or equivalent qualification.
• Hold Radio Telephony License (RT) – mandatory for pilots who will operate in controlled airspace or conduct Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.
• Be able to work unusual hours to support 24/7 operations.

At AALTO, we offer an exceptional work environment that values your well-being and rewards your dedication. As part of our team, you'll experience the freedom of flexible working that enable you to achieve a healthy work-life balance. We believe in recognizing your hard work and commitment, which is why we provide a fantastic bonus scheme that rewards your contributions. Additionally, we understand the importance of financial security and support your future with a competitive pension plan. When you join us, you become part of a workplace that not only encourages your professional growth but also cares about your personal fulfilment and financial stability. AALTO HAPS Ltd. is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity.