At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead RPAS operations, ensuring safety and compliance while managing teams and resources.
- Company: Join Cubic, a leader in innovative technology solutions for transportation and defence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Exciting role with opportunities for growth and international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence sector while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in RPAS operations and strong leadership abilities required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
When you join Cubic, you become part of a company that creates and delivers technology solutions in transportation to make people’s lives easier by simplifying their daily journeys, and defence capabilities to help promote mission success and safety for those who serve their nation. Led by our talented teams around the world, Cubic is committed to solving global issues through innovation and service to our customers and partners.
The RPAS Accountable Manager (AM) is the CDUK single point of accountability to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for all Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) operations conducted under the Specific Category, including PDRA01 and BVLOS activities. The post holder receives objective‑based assignments aligned to business and regulatory outcomes and determines the resources, structures, and operational processes required to meet agreed schedules, safety targets, and commercial goals. The AM holds overall responsibility for ensuring that RPAS operations are safe, compliant, adequately resourced, and conducted in accordance with the approved Operations Manual, Safety Management System (SMS), and applicable CAA permissions. In addition, the role provides operational leadership for commercial RPAS delivery and training activities across CDUK programmes. The role has two main aspects: office‑based planning, governance, and assurance; and field‑based delivery and operational oversight. This requires UK and overseas travel and irregular hours in support of live operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Accountable to the CDUK Management Team for compliance with UK ANO 2016 (as amended), UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947 (retained), PDRA01/OSC operational requirements.
- Ensure the organisation has sufficient personnel, equipment, funding, and systems to conduct RPAS operations safely.
- Approve and maintain the Operations Manual for PDRA01 and Operational Safety Case for BVLOS.
- Establish, maintain, and continuously improve an effective Safety Management System (SMS) proportionate to PDRA01 / BVLOS risk.
- Ensure hazards are identified, risks are assessed and mitigated, and safety occurrences are reported and investigated.
- Act as the primary interface with the CAA for all RPAS regulatory matters, audits, and oversight activities.
- Provide operational oversight of all commercial RPAS activities.
- Ensure all operations conducted under PDRA01/OSC remain within defined operational limitations.
- Liaise with Training Area Air Operations to understand requirements, restrictions and book airspace.
- Liaise with Authority (Military Customer) to understand current military capabilities and doctrine.
- Understand delivery requirements of planned supported activity, giving advice on CDUK capabilities where needed.
- Lead and manage RPAS delivery teams, including pilots, support staff and specialist contractors, including competency, currency, training and authorisation.
- Coordinate UK and overseas deployments, ensuring compliance with host‑nation UAS regulations and equipment movement requirements.
- Oversee RPAS platform selection, maintenance oversight and lifecycle management.
- Advise senior management and programme teams on RPAS regulatory compliance, safe system of work for drone operations and integration of RPAS into wider land, training, Joint Fires and ISTAR activities.
Minimum Requirements
- Demonstrable experience as a senior RPAS operational lead or Accountable Manager.
- Proven delivery under CAA Specific Category (PDRA01 and/or BVLOS desirable).
- Strong working knowledge of UK RPAS regulatory framework and SMS principles.
- GVC Certified RPAS pilot (essential).
- Experience managing multi‑disciplinary operational teams.
- Experience with operational budgeting and governance frameworks.
- Military aviation or Defence Collective Training background advantageous.
Recommended Background & Experience
- Typically 8+ years relevant operational experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (desirable).
- Demonstrated leadership across multiple operational sections or disciplines.
- Experience translating regulatory objectives into operational processes.
Personal Qualities
- Self‑motivated, proactive, and able to work with minimal supervision.
- Strong relationship‑building and influencing skills.
- Effective communicator with stakeholders at all levels.
- Ability to lead teams and quickly acquire new skills.
- Willingness to travel.
We are committed to ensuring a workplace free of discrimination based on race, colour, religion, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, military or veteran status, and any other basis protected by applicable law.
RPAS Accountable Manager & Operations Team Leader in Salisbury employer: Cubic Corporation
Cubic Defense Company is an exceptional employer that prioritises innovation and service, creating a dynamic work environment where employees can thrive. With a strong commitment to employee growth, Cubic offers opportunities for professional development and leadership roles, particularly in the exciting field of RPAS operations. Located in a collaborative atmosphere, team members benefit from a culture that values safety, compliance, and operational excellence, making it a rewarding place to contribute to meaningful projects that support national defence and transportation solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land RPAS Accountable Manager & Operations Team Leader in Salisbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and role thoroughly. Understand Cubic's mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or use online resources to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it's time to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the team at Cubic.
We think you need these skills to ace RPAS Accountable Manager & Operations Team Leader in Salisbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the RPAS Accountable Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially your knowledge of UK RPAS regulations and operational leadership.
Showcase Your Experience:We want to see your hands-on experience in RPAS operations. Be specific about your past roles, particularly any experience with PDRA01 and BVLOS activities. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage compliance.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets your qualifications across effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cubic Corporation
✨Know Your RPAS Regulations
Make sure you brush up on the UK RPAS regulatory framework and specific categories like PDRA01 and BVLOS. Being able to discuss these regulations confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the role but also committed to compliance and safety.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare examples of your past leadership roles, especially in managing multi-disciplinary teams. Highlight how you've successfully led operations and ensured safety and compliance, as this is crucial for the Accountable Manager position.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to discuss how you've built relationships and influenced decisions in previous roles, as effective communication is key in this position.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to RPAS operations. Think about how you would handle risk assessments, safety occurrences, or operational challenges. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.
