• This role is based in our Mount Maunganui, New Zealand HQ. Relocation will be a requirement*

Are you passionate about autonomous systems, drones and robotics? Are you ready to join an exciting and innovative robotics and aerospace company in a high growth stage?

Syos is a pioneering robotics and aerospace company at the forefront of developing cutting-edge utilitarian, autonomous vehicles across air, land and sea, for dual-use applications. We are driven by a commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and delivering exceptional products that exceed our customers’ expectations.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled Flight Operations Manager to oversee all aspects of our UAS flight operations, including managing trials and demonstrations, coordinating with all stakeholders, leading planning and scheduling, and managing regulatory approvals. The role is primarily for our UAS products, but the role will play an important position for future trials of our new products in the maritime domain.

Key Responsibilities

• Flight Planning and Scheduling: Develop efficient flight schedules, coordinate departments, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• CAA Approvals: Support flight approvals and manage relationships with NZ CAA and other international regulators.
• Flight Safety: Monitor aviation occurrences, optimize operational safety, and reduce risks. Ensure compliance of flight crew with approved processes in line with regulatory approvals.
• Operational Efficiency: Monitor KPIs, optimize operations, and reduce costs.
• Manage Flight Crew Training & Competency: Work with Chief Pilots to manage flight training for pilots and other flight team personnel. Ensure currency is maintained and continuously improve flight training for crew and external customers, covering local and international operations.
• Setting up Flight Operations Internationally: Build flight test, demonstration, and training organizations in other countries, including required flight safety management, infrastructure, and developing flight crews.
• Trials and Demonstrations: Plan cross-project resourcing for flight trials for defence and civil customers. Coordinate with trial leads, engineering teams, and stakeholders.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

• Bachelor’s degree or 5 years’ relevant experience in aviation, engineering, or related field.
• Extensive flight operations management experience, particularly with UAS platforms.
• Strong knowledge of UAS Operation regulations (Operational safety Case, SORA, NZ Part 102, Military Approvals).
• Proficiency in UAS technology and flight planning.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• A serious get-up-and-go attitude and motivational team spirit.

Nice to have:

• Military UAS or aviation testing/operation experience
• Proficient with hand tools
• UAS Pilot qualifications
• Training and team building experience
• Export control knowledge and logistics experience.

Location:

• The ability to relocate to New Zealand is a requirement*

This position is based in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. Known for its stunning surf beaches, vibrant culture, and a burgeoning tech scene, Mount Maunganui offers an excellent quality of life and a conducive environment for innovation.

How to Apply:

If you are ready to be part of an ambitious team that is reshaping the future unmanned vehicles, please submit your resume and cover letter. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £28,178.68-£56,575.05 per year

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Application question(s):

• Are you willing to relocate to New Zealand within a short period of time?
• How many years’ experience do you have in flight operations management?
• Do you have a strong understanding of aviation regulations and safety standards?

Work Location: In person