Role Overview
The UAV External Pilot is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) during all phases of flight, including pre-flight planning, launch, mission execution, and recovery. The role requires extensive hands-on flying experience, adherence to regulatory requirements, and close coordination with payload operators and ground control teams. The candidate will also support flight testing, mission planning, and operational readiness.
Key Responsibilities
- Operates fixed-wing UAVs in Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) missions.
- Conduct manual and semi-autonomous takeoffs and landings, including hand-launch, catapult launch, and runway operations.
- Monitor aircraft performance during all flight phases and take corrective actions when necessary.
- Execute emergency procedures and contingency plans to ensure mission safety.
- Coordinate with internal pilots and payload operators for seamless mission execution.
- Perform comprehensive pre-flight inspections of the airframe, propulsion system, avionics, and payloads.
- Verify mission parameters, weather conditions, NOTAMs, and airspace restrictions.
- Configure and validate autopilot systems such as Pixhawk, ArduPilot, and PX4.
- Conduct post-flight inspections and debriefings, documenting anomalies and maintenance requirements.
- Maintain accurate flight logs and operational records.
- Support R&D and flight testing of new UAV platforms and system upgrades.
- Assist in acceptance test procedures (ATP) and performance validation.
- Ensure all operations comply with DGCA India regulations and organizational SOPs.
- Assist in training junior pilots and contribute to operational documentation.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Aeronautical Engineering, Aviation, Electronics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
- DGCA Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) – Preferred.
Experience
- 4–6 years of hands-on experience operating fixed-wing UAVs.
- Demonstrated experience in manual takeoff and landing of fixed-wing platforms.
- Experience with VTOL fixed-wing systems is highly desirable.
- Exposure to ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) missions is an advantage.
- Experience in flight testing and system validation is preferred.
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in Ground Control Stations such as Mission Planner, QGroundControl, and UgCS.
- Hands-on experience with autopilot systems including ArduPilot and PX4.
- Strong understanding of aerodynamics and flight mechanics of fixed-wing aircraft.
- Knowledge of radio communication systems, telemetry, GNSS, and INS.
- Familiarity with fail-safe mechanisms and redundancy systems.
- Ability to assess weather conditions and conduct mission planning.
Behavioral Competencies
- Strong situational awareness and decision-making skills.
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Effective communication and teamwork.
- High level of discipline and safety consciousness.
- Ability to work in remote and field environments.
- Adaptability to dynamic mission requirements.
Working Conditions
- Frequent travel to remote test and operational sites.
- Ability to work in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions.
- Flexibility to work extended hours during mission-critical operations.
Preferred Experience
- Experience with military or defence UAV operations.
- Familiarity with SATCOM and long-range communication systems.
- Knowledge of payload integration such as EO/IR sensors.
- Participation in type certification or airworthiness processes.
