UAV Pilot/Technician at Destinus in Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland

About the Role

Imagine this – you’re standing on a runway at sunrise, a sleek UAV beside you, its systems humming as you run your checks. In minutes, you’ll be piloting it across borders, capturing critical data, and pushing the limits of what’s possible in modern aerospace. At Destinus, your work won’t just be flying drones – it will be shaping the future of defense, exploration, and connectivity.

At Destinus, we are revolutionizing the defense industry with cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Our innovative technologies are designed to meet the unique demands of modern defense operations, delivering unparalleled speed, precision, and cost effectiveness. Destinus partners with government agencies and defense organizations worldwide to provide advanced solutions for mission-critical operations, enabling a new era of efficiency and technological superiority. Join us in shaping the future of defense with groundbreaking aerospace innovations.

What You´ll Do

You will be at the controls and behind the scenes of high-stakes UAV operations, taking ownership of every phase of the mission, including

• Conducting pre-flight planning including airspace coordination, weather assessment, and risk analysis
• Performing launch, flight, and recovery of UAVs in manual, assisted, or autonomous modes
• Operating EO/IR and visual seeker payloads for surveillance, mapping, and tracking
• Ensuring flight safety and regulatory compliance in all operational areas (VLOS and BVLOS)
• Maintaining accurate flight logs, checklists, and system records
• Conducting routine UAV maintenance, troubleshooting, and field repairs
• Collaborating with mission planners, data analysts, and engineering teams
• Providing technical input to improve UAV systems and mission workflows
• Traveling internationally for training, test flights, and demonstrations — including Safe Zones in Ukraine
• Being stationed in multiple operational bases including NL, Portugal, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, and Safe Zones in Ukraine
• Staying abroad for extended periods when required
• Understanding UAV systems and their communication architecture

What You´ll Need

To excel in this role, you bring

• At least 3 years of experience piloting UAVs (manual and autonomous)
• UAV flight certifications A1 – A3 A2 and Specific
• Proven operational experience in reconnaissance or surveillance missions
• Strong knowledge of UAV avionics, telemetry, electronics, and ground control stations
• Familiarity with European airspace regulations
• Ability to work in remote, offshore, or expeditionary environments
• Strong situational awareness, communication skills, and a safety-first mindset
• Fluency in English with proficiency in French, Spanish, or German a plus

Who You Are

You thrive in unpredictable environments where adaptability is key. When challenges arise, you see opportunities to innovate and improve. You’re equally comfortable piloting under pressure and repairing equipment in the field. You value precision, safety, and efficiency in every mission. You’re resourceful, autonomous, and relentless in pursuit of mission success.