# UAV Flight Operator

> Destinus · Madrid, Spain · Full-time · Posted 2026-01-20

**Workplace:** on_site

**Department:** Flight Operations

## Description

**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

## Requirements

**What You’ll Need**

**•** At least 3 years of experience flying fixed-wing UAVs in manual and autonomous modes  
**•** Hands-on experience operating ground control stations and mission systems  
**•** Valid UAV flight certifications A1, A2, A3, and Specific  
**•** Proven operational or flight test experience in reconnaissance, surveillance, or experimental flight environments  
**•** Strong technical knowledge of UAV avionics, telemetry, electronics, datalinks, and communication architectures  
**•** Experience working as a technician-operator hybrid in production or operational environments  
**•** Familiarity with European airspace regulations and operational procedures  
**•** Flexibility to conduct multiple flights per day depending on operational needs  
**•** Ability to work in remote, offshore, or high-pressure environments  
**•** Strong situational awareness, communication skills, and safety-driven decision making  
**•** Experience with catapult systems and rocket engines for UAV launch is highly valued  
**•** Fluency in English with Spanish, French, German or any other language are a plus

**Who You Are**

**•** You are a hands-on operator with a strong technical and flight test mindset  
**•** You are comfortable flying fixed-wing UAVs manually and not multirotor platforms  
**•** You feel at ease operating ground control stations and solving technical issues in real time  
**•** You are adaptable, autonomous, and ready to fly whenever conditions allow  
**•** You value discipline, safety, and precision in every mission  
**•** You take ownership of both the aircraft and the mission outcome

## Apply

[Apply at Destinus](https://apply.workable.com/destinusgroup/j/17DA8DA68B/apply)

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