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Drone Operations Manager

UAV Talent
Wakefield
5 months ago
Applications closed

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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:

  • 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

  • 30 days holiday + Bank Holidays
  • International travel opportunities
  • EMI share options & pension scheme

Please contact or apply directly.

Seniority level

  • Seniority levelMid-Senior level

Employment type

  • Employment typeFull-time
  • IndustriesBusiness Consulting and Services

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