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UAV Operator (Flight Mission Planner)
Calgary, CANPosted 5 months ago
Full-timehybrid
Job Description
Role Overview
The UAV Operator (Flight Mission Planner) is responsible for planning, configuring, monitoring, and executing Precision AI’s UAV missions through the Ground Control Station (GCS). Working in close coordination with the External Pilot (PIC), you will manage ArduPilot–based flight plans, system health, telemetry, and in-mission adjustments to ensure safe, precise, and efficient spray operations. The UAV Operator plays a critical role in mission success by combining strong software proficiency with operational judgment and tight team communication.
This role is based in Calgary, AB, with a flexible hybrid schedule that includes office work, remote coordination, and frequent travel for both spray operations and testing. Comfort traveling to the US for extended periods of time (2-4 weeks) as well as a valid Canadian passport are required.
Key Responsibilities
- Mission Planning & GCS Operations
- Own ArduPilot setup and operation for all flight missions
- Build, validate, and adjust flight plans, waypoints, geofences, and mission parameters
- Monitor live telemetry, system health, GPS, battery, payload, and failsafes during flight
- Execute mission start, pause, resume, abort, and contingency workflows in coordination with the External Pilot
- Maintain constant situational awareness and provide real-time inputs to the Pilot in Command
- Systems, Equipment & Readiness
- Configure and verify GCS hardware, radios, antennas, and software prior to missions
- Conduct pre- and post-flight system checks and log anomalies or performance issues
- Assist with UAV setup, calibration, payload configuration, and teardown
- Support testing and integration of new aircraft configurations, payloads, and software updates
- Team Collaboration & Communication
- Maintain clear, calm, and precise communication during live missions
- Provide structured feedback on mission performance, system behavior, and process improvements
- Work closely with engineering, flight ops, and training teams to improve reliability and repeatability
- Contribute to a team culture built on trust, discipline, and shared responsibility for safety
Relevant Experience (Ideal Candidate Background)
- Strong hands-on experience with ArduPilot
- Prior experience operating a Ground Control Station for UAV or autonomous aircraft
- Experience monitoring and interpreting telemetry, logs, and system diagnostics
- Experience with data analysis, log uploads, and flight data administration
What You Bring
- Mission Planner Expertise: Confident building and managing complex missions in live environments
- Technical Aptitude: Comfortable troubleshooting software, comms, and system-level issues in the field
- Operational Judgment: Able to stay calm, focused, and decisive during high-pressure missions
- Team Orientation: Works seamlessly with pilots, crew, and leadership
- Adaptability: Comfortable traveling, working outdoors, and adjusting plans in real time
Bonus Points
- Experience with fixed-wing RC models or autonomous aircraft integration
- Exposure to agricultural UAV operations, industrial drones, or field-based autonomous systems is a plus