Drone Operator
About the role :
We are looking for a skilled and safety-conscious Drone Operator / Remote Pilot to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe and professional operation of drones/RPAS equipment for aerial photography, inspections, surveying, mapping, monitoring and other commercial applications.
The ideal candidate will have strong practical flying skills, excellent attention to detail, a professional approach to aviation safety and the ability to operate effectively in varied environments and weather conditions.
Minimum Requirements:
- Valid SACAA Remote Pilot Licence/Certificate (RPL/RPC) appropriate to the operation.
- Relevant aviation medical certificate where required.
- Demonstrable commercial drone/RPAS flying experience.
- Strong understanding of drone safety, airspace awareness and flight planning.
- Experience operating professional-grade drones and camera/sensor payloads.
- Valid South African driver's licence.
- Ability and willingness to travel and work on-site.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
Key Performance Areas: (not totally inclusive):
- Operate drones/RPAS safely and professionally in accordance with approved procedures and applicable South African aviation regulations.
- Conduct pre-flight planning, risk assessments, site assessments and equipment inspections.
- Perform safe take-off, flight and landing operations.
- Capture high-quality aerial photography, video and other required data.
- Conduct aerial inspections, surveys, mapping, monitoring and other project-specific drone operations.
- Operate cameras, sensors, GPS and other payloads as required.
- Maintain accurate flight logs, maintenance records and operational documentation.
- Carry out routine drone, battery and equipment checks and report defects or maintenance requirements.
- Ensure all flights are properly planned and authorised before operation.
- Monitor weather, airspace, surrounding hazards and other operational risks.
- Work closely with clients, project managers, surveyors, engineers and other field personnel.
- Process, organise and securely store captured imagery and flight data.
- Assist with post-flight data processing and reporting where required.
- Maintain and update knowledge of applicable aviation regulations, company procedures and industry best practice.
- Represent the company professionally when working on client sites.
- Travel to project sites throughout South Africa as required.