Role Summary 
The Drone Operator is a technical professional responsible for the safe and precise execution of aerial missions, ensuring high-fidelity geospatial data capture that feeds directly into SAGER’s automated processing and analytics pipelines. This role combines operational discipline, sensor expertise, and adaptive decision-making in dynamic environments to deliver enterprise-grade mapping, inspection, and monitoring services. Operators serve as the frontline technical specialists, integrating UAV flight control, multi-sensor payload configuration, real-time quality assurance, and on-site troubleshooting, while adhering to strict regulatory, safety, and client-specific requirements. 
Key Responsibilities 
Conduct comprehensive pre-flight planning, local airspace and air traffic restrictions, permissions, and contingency planning 
Execute site risk assessments considering terrain, weather, manned traffic, and infrastructure hazards 
Program flight plans to meet deliverable specifications: ground sample distance (GSD), sidelap/overlap ratios, flight line configuration, and GNSS/RTK/PPK accuracy standards 
Configure and calibrate multi-sensor payloads (RGB, thermal, multispectral) per SOPs 
Validate GNSS integration, metadata accuracy, and GCP placement 
Run system diagnostics and test flights to confirm readiness 
Execute missions safely under SAGER operational procedures 
Monitor telemetry, conditions, and sensor performance in real time 
Perform immediate post-flight quality checks for coverage and data integrity 
Conduct routine maintenance, firmware updates, inspections, and minor repairs 
Maintain mission logs, configurations, and deviation records 
Support fleet reliability through spare parts and asset traceability tracking 
Enforce on-site safety protocols and airspace deconfliction procedures 
Execute emergency responses for failures, hazards, or adverse conditions 
Report incidents promptly and contribute to continuous safety improvement 
Support urgent and high-stakes missions, including rapid response inspections 
Coordinate logistics and cross-functional resources for efficient execution 
Act as the technical point of contact during client site operations 
Provide clear handover documentation for downstream QA and reporting 
Contribute feedback to improve workflows and client satisfaction 
Requirements
Certified UAV/Drone Pilot license as required by local aviation authorities; extensive flight experience with multi-rotor and fixed-wing platforms 
GCAA or DCAA license is required 
Hands-on experience with multi-sensor payloads (RGB, LiDAR, thermal, multispectral) and field calibration techniques 
Strong knowledge of GNSS/RTK/PPK surveying, ground control points, and geospatial accuracy standards 
Proven expertise in flight planning software, telemetry monitoring, and in-field QA procedures 
Familiarity with airspace regulations, NOTAMs, BVLOS operations, and emergency protocols 
Recommended Qualifications
Prior experience in the oil & gas sector is preferred
Driving license is good to have