The UAV Operator plays a vital role at Dendra Systems, engaging in flight operations across the MENA region with an unwavering commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. The perfect candidate will join a dynamic team of remote UAV Operators, both in-house and outsourced, collaborating with technicians to lead the planning, execution, and analysis of flight missions for a variety of projects. In this exciting position, you will develop and implement essential operational protocols, adhere to project timelines, and work diligently with multiple departments to ensure the successful delivery of UAV and flight-based services. You'll be actively maintaining strong communication with stakeholders to meet their needs and facilitate seamless operations.

This role demands comprehensive knowledge of UAV technology, operational logistics, and effective team dynamics. As a crucial team member, you'll collaborate closely with external stakeholders and internal teams, including field ecologists, maintenance engineers, and GIS specialists, to uphold the company’s mission with the utmost professionalism and safety.

Your responsibilities will include executing RPAS mapping data collection and aerial seeding operations throughout the MENA region, while ensuring full compliance with all relevant regulations. As part of a world-class team dedicated to environmental restoration, you will leverage and contribute to the advancement of cutting-edge technology, operating powered lift and multirotor aircraft (up to 50kg) in challenging and remote environments.

This position is ideal for a proactive individual with a keen eye for detail, able to adapt to the changing conditions and challenges present in the field.

A primary condition of this role is to work away from home, up to a few weeks at a time.

Responsibilities

Plan, execute, and analyse RPAS flight missions across diverse projects in alignment with company standards, regulatory requirements, and client expectations.
Conduct RPAS mapping and aerial seeding operations throughout the MENA region, with a strong emphasis on safety, compliance, and environmental restoration impact.
Manage all aspects of flight planning, including meteorological assessments, system preparations, and airspace coordination, ensuring regulatory compliance and operational excellence.
Operate powered lift and multirotor aircraft (up to 50kg) safely in remote and high-risk environments, contributing to innovative applications of UAV technology in restoration and land management.
Collaborate with the Flight Operations Manager and cross-functional teams to ensure seamless project delivery and continuous improvement in field operations.
Coordinate with engineering teams to support system maintenance and contribute to the development and testing of new technologies.
Support post-operation processes, including secure data transfer, accurate documentation, and generation of flight reports to inform system refinements.
Participate in internal flight operations audits, providing insight into risks, impacts, and opportunities for continual process optimisation.
Assist in securing necessary flight permits, and engage in reconnaissance missions to identify operational area access requirements in collaboration with project and government relations teams.
Maintain detailed and timely reporting to ensure operational transparency and data quality, including contributions to Dendra’s Data Center and project archives.
Support logistics planning and deployment schedules, working closely with the Flight Operations Manager to prepare for and execute missions effectively.
Provide ongoing support to other field operations and company departments as needed to foster a collaborative and high-performance work culture.

Core Competencies

Strong planning skills with the ability to adapt to changing field conditions and operational challenges.
Proactive and innovative approach to problem-solving and process improvement.
Strong site management capabilities and a positive, safety-first mindset.
High attention to detail, excellent organisational skills, and the ability to work effectively as part of a remote team.
Enthusiastic attitude with a strong willingness and ability to learn new skills quickly.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

Excellent oral and written communication skills in English; proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with team members, clients, and stakeholders.
Proven ability to build and maintain high-performing relationships with both internal colleagues and external stakeholders on-site.

Technical Knowledge & Experience

In-depth knowledge of UAV flight operations, safety protocols, and data collection procedures.
Demonstrated knowledge of aviation legislation and licensing requirements, particularly within the UAE/MENA region.
Experience in conducting aerial surveys and photogrammetry data collection across relevant platforms.
Comprehensive understanding of UAV sensor technology and how to utilise it for specified data collection.
Familiarity with platform mapping requirements, including sensor configuration and flight parameters.
Experience using flight planning software (e.g., AVCRM) and a solid understanding of flight logging methodologies.
Background in operating within high-safety environments, adhering to strict compliance and operational standards.

Operational & Physical Requirements

Ability to manually handle heavy equipment and seed bags.
Willingness and ability to deploy to remote customer sites intermittently and for extended periods
Ability to travel internationally for extended durations in support of company training and onboarding (up to 2 weeks).

Qualifications & Licence Requirements

Remote Pilot License (RPL)

Aeronautical Radio Operators Certificate (AROC) or equivalent qualification
Current RPAS Commercial Pilot License, with proven experience operating RPAS in a commercial environment ideally in the UAE
Unrestricted UAE Driver’s License
Ability to meet medical and BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) requirements
Valid Passport for international travel, with a minimum of 6 months' validity
Right to Work in the UAE and MENA region

Share Options
Enjoy 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays
Comprehensive Private Health Insurance
Incentive Performance Bonus of up to 10% of basic salary
Gratuity included
Housing and Transport Allowances included in salary package

Dendra Systems Limited

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UAV Operator