Flight Ops Manager for Drones (a)

at  Meteomatics

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE TOMORROW? ️

How much energy will my solar power plant generate this week? Is this flight path safe and efficient? Will there be enough rain to water my crops? As the weather affects many industries’ performance, businesses keep a close eye on what’s happening in the skies.
At Meteomatics, we’re a team of proud nerds who deliver the most accurate weather data to over 600 companies and research institutions worldwide. With our Meteodrones, we bridge the meteorological data gap, gathering and delivering the most accurate weather data!
We are looking for a proactive Drone Flight Operations Manager to lead and oversee our drone operations in Norway, joining our newly inaugurated office in the heart of Oslo!
The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing all aspects of flight operations, including planning, execution, safety, compliance, and personnel management. You will ensure the successful execution of drone missions, maintain safety standards, and contribute to the growth of our drone services. If you are passionate about drone technology, safety, and innovative solutions, we encourage you to apply.

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

• Flight Operations: Proven experience (1+ years) in drone (flight) operations, aviation management, project management or a related field. Strong organizational skills.
• Certifications: Valid drone pilot certifications (e.g. A1/3, A2, Part 107, BVLOS, or equivalent). Additional aviation or safety certifications are a plus.
• Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of UAV technology, flight control systems, and drone maintenance.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Knowledge of local and international aviation regulations (e.g. EASA, or other relevant authorities).
• Travel: Willingness to travel domestically or internationally, depending on operational needs, with a training period in Switzerland of 3 - 6 months.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills and willingness to coordinate with stakeholders and authorities. Business fluent in English (additional languages are a plus). Leadership skills are beneficial.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) drone operations.
• Knowledge of advanced drone systems and payloads, including LiDAR, thermal, and photogrammetry sensors.
• Experience in project management or logistics coordination.

• Manage Flight Operations: Lead, coordinate and perform drone flight operations, ensuring the successful planning, scheduling, and execution of all missions. Grow the operations by identifying new locations and negotiating with stakeholders.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensure all drone operations comply with relevant aviation regulations and safety protocols, including airspace restrictions, weather conditions, and risk assessments.
• SORA Support: Support our regulatory compliance managers with their responsibility of SORA documentation and regulatory compliance.
• Fleet Management: Oversee the maintenance, repair, and technical readiness of the drone fleet, ensuring all equipment is up to date and operational; coordination with the technical crew.
• Regulatory Liaison: Act as the primary point of contact for operational questions from aviation authorities and ensure all necessary permits e.g. concerning the airspace, registration of flights, and certifications are up to date and performed.
• Data Management: Monitor and analyze flight data, and provide reports on performance, mission outcomes, and safety compliance.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify areas for operational improvements, introducing new technologies, methodologies, or best practices to enhance efficiency and safety.
• Team Leadership: Manage and train the future flight operations team, including pilots and support crew, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills.