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UAV Flight Operator

Destinus

Destinus

Operations
Madrid, Spain
Posted on Jan 20, 2026

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

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, or German as 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

Why Join Us?

✨ The Thrill of the Future – Work on cutting-edge projects that redefine aerospace.
✨ Global Innovation Hub – Collaborate with top engineers from all over the world.
✨ Fast-Paced & High-Growth – Experience the rush of working in a rapidly expanding company.
✨ Real Impact – Your work won’t be theoretical—it will shape the future of flight.

Destinus is an equal-opportunity employer. We value diversity in our companies and our teams and do not discriminate based on age, race, religion, color, country of origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability status.

🚀 Destinus – Challenge the limits of time, space, and human potential.