UAV Flight Operations Lead
About the role
Imagine being at the core of real flight operations, where cutting-edge UAV systems move from concept to sky. Every role. This is where planning meets execution, where data becomes insight, and where precision mission you run directly impacts how advanced aerospace technology performs in the real world. This is not a desk defines success.
At Destinus, we are revolutionizing the defense industry with cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Our innovative technologies are designed to meet the unique demands of modern defense operations, delivering unparalleled speed, precision, and cost effectiveness. Destinus partners with government agencies and defense organizations worldwide to provide advanced solutions for mission-critical operations, enabling a new era of efficiency and technological superiority. Join us in shaping the future of defense with groundbreaking aerospace innovations.
What You´ll Do
- Lead and oversee daily UAV flight operations, ensuring adherence to safety, regulatory, and company standards
- Plan, prepare and execute flight test campaigns, including scheduling, risk assessments and operational readiness
- Prepare test campaigns by organizing required materials, equipment, and human resources
- Ensure all aircraft are in flight-ready condition, including the integration of all onboard equipment and systems and their correct configuration
- Execute planned flight test activities and ensure proper mission execution
- Gather and manage telemetry data, video recordings, and all supporting information required for test analysis
- Generate comprehensive test reports based on flight results and collected data
- Coordinate with engineering teams to ensure alignment between flight operations and technical requirements
- Lead and organize customer demonstrations, ensuring successful and professional execution
- Prepare operations and training manuals for UAV systems and procedures
- Deliver training to customers on UAV operation, safety procedures and system usage
- Assess and validate all necessary conditions for safe flight operations, including weather analysis, airspace evaluation and assessment of ground and surrounding areas
- Provide support for logistics management, including transportation, equipment handling and site setup
- Supervise and mentor UAV operators and support staff
- Maintain documentation related to flight operations, maintenance logs and test results
- Ensure compliance with applicable UAV regulations and internal procedures
- Identify operational risks and implement mitigation measures
- Be available and willing to travel frequently to support flight operations, test campaigns, and customer activities
Requirements
What You’ll Need
- 10+ years proven experience in UAV flight operations, flight testing, or aerospace operations environment
- Strong understanding of aviation safety standards, UAV regulations, and airspace management
- Experience planning and executing complex test campaigns and field operations
- Ability to manage technical documentation, reporting, and operational procedures
- Hands-on mindset with the ability to troubleshoot systems in real operational environments
- Experience working cross-functionally with engineering, logistics, and test teams
- Strong organizational and coordination skills with attention to detail
- Leadership experience or ability to mentor and guide operational teams
- Excellent communication skills in English, Spanish is a strong plus
- Willingness to travel frequently and operate in dynamic environments
Who You Are
You thrive where execution matters. You are structured but adaptable, able to make decisions in real time without losing sight of safety or precision. When systems fail or conditions change, you stay sharp and find solutions. You take ownership of operations, lead by example, and bring clarity to complex environments. You don’t wait for instructions, you anticipate what’s next and make it happen.