Drone Operations Manager (Wakefield)

Lead the future of UAV weather sensing

UAV Talent is seeking a forward-thinking UAS Operations Manager to spearhead the next generation of automated drone operations across the UK and Europe. You’ll be at the helm of a world-class programme focused on atmospheric data and climate research-driven by advanced, highly autonomous UAS platforms.

This is not your standard drone job. It’s about scaling BVLOS missions, integrating cutting-edge payloads, and crafting the aviation systems that underpin a truly automated fleet. You’ll own regulatory readiness, technical operations, and client integration in one of the most exciting sectors in aerospace.

What You’ll be working on:

Operational Strategy & Compliance

• Lead and evolve all regulatory documentation – Operations Manuals and the SORA Package
• Own Operational Authorisation submissions and airspace access processes across CAA, EASA, and ANSPs.
• Build and maintain the systems that enable safe, repeatable BVLOS autonomous flight.

Fleet & Mission Oversight

• Ensure airworthiness, spares availability, and mission readiness across the drone fleet.
• Lead client-specific UAV/payload integrations for highly customised scientific missions.
• Grow and guide a skilled team across operations, safety, and engineering support.

Stakeholder Engagement & Innovation

• Act as the interface between technical teams, customers, and regulators.
• Support R&D on autonomy, airspace integration, and performance scaling.
• Represent operations in bids, live demos, and technical consultations.

About the Company

Our client is a fast-growing, employee-owned science and tech firm focused on climate and atmospheric data, with projects spanning Europe and the Arctic. Operating at the intersection of robotics, aviation, and science, they blend a start-up culture with real-world impact-working in low-bureaucracy, high-autonomy environments.

What You Bring

• Expertise in UAS operations and aviation compliance (CAP 722, EU 2019/947, SORA).
• Experience managing automated or semi-autonomous UAS systems.
• Excellent communicator, able to brief regulators, clients, and C-suite leaders alike.
• Proven ability to lead in both strategic planning and real-time operations.

Bonus Points For:

• Exposure to meteorological or atmospheric science.
• Project management credentials.
• Familiarity with AI tools or automation frameworks.
• Industry group involvement or safety/first aid training.

The Offer

• £45,000–£50,000 salary
• Flexible/hybrid working
• 30 days holiday + Bank Holidays
• International travel opportunities
• EMI share options & pension scheme

Please contact hello@uavtalent.com or apply directly.