UAV Flight Operator

Destinus Madrid, Spain
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About the role Imagine being part of a flight operations team where every mission matters. From early-morning checks to last-light recoveries, you operate fixed-wing UAVs in demanding environments where precision, reliability, and technical judgment are non-negotiable. This role is not just about flying. It is about owning the aircraft, the ground control station, and the mission from preparation to post-flight analysis, with a strong flight test mentality and hands-on technical responsibility. 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 • Operate and support fixed-wing UAV missions in operational and test environments, acting as pilot, technician, and ground control station operator • Conduct pre-flight planning including airspace coordination, weather analysis, system checks, and risk assessment • Perform launch, flight, and recovery of fixed-wing UAVs in manual, assisted, and autonomous modes • Operate and manage ground control stations, datalinks, and communication systems during missions • Fly with a strong flight test mindset, executing test points and adapting profiles throughout the day when conditions allow • Operate EO/IR and visual payloads for surveillance, reconnaissance, mapping, and tracking • Ensure flight safety and regulatory compliance in VLOS and BVLOS operations • Maintain accurate flight logs, checklists, maintenance records, and system documentation • Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and field-level repairs on UAV systems • Collaborate closely with engineers, mission planners, and data teams to improve aircraft performance and mission workflows • Travel frequently for training, test flights, and demonstrations, including deployments to safe operational zones • Operate from multiple bases including Spain, Netherlands, Portugal, Germany, Switzerland, and safe zones in Ukraine • Remain abroad for extended periods when mission requirements demand it