UAV Safety Pilot / Drone Operator (m/w/d)

Your mission:
• Conduct manual UAV test flights in real-world and controlled environments to validate performance, reliability, and safety
• Act as Pilot in Command (PIC) during test missions, ensuring safe and compliant flight operations
• Monitor and interpret telemetry, sensor data, and flight parameters in real time to support engineering and testing teams
• Perform comprehensive pre-flight inspections, system checks, and diagnostics to ensure airworthiness prior to takeoff
• Execute and adhere to safety protocols, emergency procedures, and contingency plans during all flight operations
• Support post-flight data collection, logging, and debriefs, providing actionable feedback to improve UAV systems
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations, airspace constraints, and operational limitations throughout test activities
• Collaborate closely with engineers to validate new features, flight modes, and software updates
• Comfortable with a dynamic start-up environment and open to taking on other operational tasks in support of our product development

Your profile:
• Valid UAV pilot license (FAA Part 107, EASA drone license, or equivalent) — required
• Proven, hands-on experience flying UAVs in real operational environments
• Strong manual piloting skills and demonstrated flight hours on multirotor and/or fixed-wing drones
• Solid understanding of UAV flight dynamics, safety procedures, and operational risk management
• Ability to operate drones safely in complex or non-standard scenarios
• Strong attention to detail and a safety-first mindset
• Formal degree not required; practical flight experience is the priority
• Open to travel and comfortable working in a team environment

Nice to have

• Experience with flight testing, experimental platforms, or prototype UAVs
• Hands-on experience with ground control and mission planning software (QGroundControl, PX4 / ArduPilot Mission Planner...)
• Background in aerospace, robotics, avionics, or embedded systems
• Experience operating UAVs in BVLOS, industrial inspection, or R&D environments
• Familiarity with autonomous flight modes, failsafe behaviors, and system redundancy concepts

Meta

• Intrinsic motivation, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving mindset
• Creative thinker with a structured and systematic approach
• Humble and collaborative — prioritizes collective success over individual recognition
• High ethical standards and disciplined work ethic
• Extra-curricular leadership or achievements are a bonus
• Fluent in English
• Nationality of a NATO member nation or close ally is required
• Successful candidates will be required to obtain security clearance

Why us?:
Do you feel that you fit the description, but don't think you fulfill all the criteria 100%? Apply to us anyway.   
We look forward to receiving your detailed application via our online form. 

The world is changing. Exponential technologies are enabling new types of security threats. ATS is committed to staying ahead by building nimble, scalable, and cost-effective defences. We are looking for passionate developers who are eager to create exceptional products, safeguard our freedom, and strengthen the resilience of democracies.