At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead UAS operations, ensuring safety and compliance while developing a world-class team.
- Company: Draken, a leader in advanced military training and UAS services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension contributions, bonuses, and wellbeing programmes.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth and support for veterans.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in military training with cutting-edge technology and leadership opportunities.
- Qualifications: Experience in BVLoS operations, strong leadership, and regulatory knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Draken offer exciting careers that matter. We believe that mission success does not start with the mission itself. It begins with our people. We also believe in fair reward and recognition for our employees. As such, we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including up to 12% matching pension contributions, bonus incentives, discounted PMI, electric car scheme, tech vouchers, wellbeing programmes and much more.
The Mission
At Draken, we deliver "careers that matter". As we accelerate the development of our Uncrewed Air System (UAS) capabilities, we are seeking a UAS Chief Pilot. This is a high-impact leadership role focused on recruiting and building a world-class delivery team and transitioning our UAS services from trial phases to full-scale operational excellence.
As a Subject Matter Expert (SME), you will provide critical live threat training to military customers, ensuring our "Red Force" services remain at the cutting edge of the modern battlespace. The role reports to the AM / VP on matters of flight operations, safety, regulations, compliance, SOPs and tactical service provision.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership - Ensure safe, compliant, and standardised service delivery of all UAS operations.
- Regulatory & Compliance - Manage CAA engagement, generate operating permissions for trials and service delivery, and ensure strict adherence to regulatory authorisations.
- Team Development - Lead the initial and continued development of the UAS service delivery team.
- Standards & Procedures - Create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure operational rigour.
- Commercial & Stakeholder Management - Oversee budgets, manage teaming/partnering relationships, act as the primary customer interface for service delivery and support business development.
Collaborate with the Aviation Safety Manager to contribute to the Safety Management System; through risk assessment, occurrence reporting, action management and reviews. Support internal and CAA audit programmes and meet required timescales to assess, comprehensively address and close out findings and requirements.
Ensure UAS operations are conducted in accordance with the relevant UK SHE standards. Act as the SME in the provision of advice to the programmes and business development teams.
Recruit UAS pilots in collaboration with HR, ensuring alignment with Ops Manual procedures and appropriate regulatory requirements. Through liaison with ground operations, maintain detailed oversight for the currency and competency requirements stipulated for UAS pilots.
Manage the welfare, development and potential of UAS pilots through regular reviews and the company PDR process. Uphold the core company values and seek opportunities to enhance the company’s reputation and influence. Any other duties that are reasonably requested by Draken management and within the capability of the incumbent.
Essential Experience & Qualifications:
- BVLoS Expertise: Current or previous Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLoS) operator with commercial BVLoS operational management experience.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of current UK civil UAS and airspace regulations.
- Military Insight: Solid knowledge of military structures and protocols.
- Leadership Traits: High integrity, resilience, and the ability to solve complex commercial challenges through data-driven judgement.
- Communication: Strong written and verbal skills, with the ability to manage tight timelines and frequent travel.
- Security: Must hold current UK security clearance or have the ability to obtain it.
Desirable:
- Previous Military UAS experience.
- Previous regulatory experience in UAS flight operations.
Our employee values Draken is committed to eliminating unlawful and unfair discrimination and we celebrate the differences that a diverse workforce brings. A range of perspective and talent supports our values and drives our success, with a mix of voices generating better discussions, business decisions and outcomes for all. At all our sites internationally, every member of the Draken team is accountable to ensure that we are all treated fairly and with respect. We are also an Armed Forces friendly organisation, and as part of our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, welcome applications from veterans and services spouses and partners who met the criteria in our job specifications. In line with our Disability Confident Commitments, we provide reasonable adjustments to facilitate our interview process, please liaise with us if any reasonable adjustments are required.
About You
About Us
Whether it is adversarial support, electronic attack or customised rotary-wing training, we offer the most accurate and advanced readiness training in the industry. Our vast, differentiated fleet, cutting edge hardware and experienced instructors are engaged to help your mission take off.
Being ready is not only a matter of when. But where. We provide services in the UK, US and across the NATO countries. Making sure that our allies can manoeuvre around defeat and prepare to prevail.
Unmanned Aircrew Systems (UAS) Chief Pilot in Bournemouth employer: Draken
Draken is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its employees, offering competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, including generous pension contributions and wellbeing programmes. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, Draken fosters a collaborative work culture where every team member is valued, and opportunities for professional development abound, particularly in the dynamic field of Uncrewed Air Systems. Located in Bournemouth or Teesside, this role not only provides a chance to lead a world-class team but also to contribute to critical military training operations, making a meaningful impact in the modern battlespace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Unmanned Aircrew Systems (UAS) Chief Pilot in Bournemouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Draken on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your BVLoS expertise and regulatory knowledge. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with Draken's mission and values—show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for the job to come to you! Apply through our website and keep an eye on new openings. The sooner you apply, the better your chances of landing that dream role as UAS Chief Pilot.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged and are genuinely interested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Unmanned Aircrew Systems (UAS) Chief Pilot in Bournemouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for the UAS Chief Pilot role. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission and values, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a high-impact leadership role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership traits in your application. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, especially in aviation or military contexts.
Highlight Regulatory Knowledge:Since regulatory compliance is key for this position, make sure to emphasise your understanding of UK civil UAS regulations. We’re looking for someone who can navigate these complexities with ease, so give us the details!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Draken
✨Know Your BVLoS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLoS) operational management experience. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you've successfully navigated regulatory challenges or led a team in BVLoS operations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a UAS Chief Pilot, leadership is key. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to develop teams and manage complex situations. Think about times when you've had to make tough decisions or resolve conflicts within a team.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with current UK civil UAS regulations and airspace rules. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in past roles and how you would approach regulatory challenges at Draken.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical details or complex concepts. Remember, it's not just what you say, but how you say it that counts!
