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.