Lead Pilot V&V
ideaForge
- Lead and manage the Test Pilot team across projects and locations, ensuring structured working, effective utilization, daily coordination and adequate coverage for simultaneous testing.
- Plan and allocate pilots across projects/sites based on priorities, competency and availability; identify resource gaps and arrange backup/third-party resources as required. Ensure skill development of subordinates with OJT and external/internal trainings
- Coordinate flight-test activities across multiple sites, ensuring pilot deployment, equipment/spares, logistics, permissions, readiness and consistent operational practices. Also travel for on-site testing, field trials and demonstrations (~30% travel),
- Own operational readiness and upkeep of all test sites, including infrastructure, equipment, safety/emergency systems, housekeeping, inspections and timely closure of deficiencies. As & when necessary, identify new test sites and establish site infra,resources etc. in collaboration with internal/external stakeholders. Ensure regulatory/legal compliances at all test sites (permissions/ process management)
- Remain an active Test Pilot for critical, complex and non-standard testing; evaluate UAV performance, support troubleshooting/emergency recovery and provide technical feedback to Engineering/V&V teams.
- Drive daily test planning and readiness, track execution against plan, ensure timely reporting/documentation and escalate technical, safety, resource or schedule constraints.
- Ensure adherence to flight-test SOPs, risk assessments and emergency procedures; promote safety culture and lead/support incident, near-miss and corrective-action management. Identify new processes / testing checklist, test requirement and establishing the same for effective output.
- Mentor and develop pilots through structured training, competency assessment, cross-platform exposure and knowledge sharing to build a skilled and multi-capable pilot team.
- Act as first-line manager for pilots, managing deployment, leave, attendance, travel, performance inputs, development, recruitment support and day-to-day HR/administrative matters.
- Interface with Technical Lead – V&V, PJMs, Engineering and support functions to align priorities, standardize pilot operations, improve test throughput and drive process, dashboard and productivity improvements.
- Ensure effective pilot deployment and utilization across projects and locations, with timely resource availability, balanced allocation and minimal pilot-related test delays or conflicts.
- Achieve planned flight-test activities with disciplined execution, schedule adherence, accurate documentation and timely closure or escalation of test observations and operational issues.
- Maintain a strong safety culture with adherence to SOPs, risk controls and emergency procedures, ensuring timely reporting and closure of incidents, near misses and safety observations.
- Ensure sustained readiness, upkeep and safety of all assigned test locations, with timely closure of infrastructure/equipment gaps and standardized site-readiness practices.
- Continuously improve pilot competency and multi-platform capability through structured training, mentoring, cross-utilization and development of backup capability for critical test activities.
- Ensure effective manpower, deployment and leave planning, structured working and team accountability, supported by regular performance/development reviews and timely resolution of HR and administrative matters.
- Drive standardized pilot operating processes, improved visibility through pilot/test dashboards, and continuous reduction of recurring operational issues and execution inefficiencies.
- Demonstrate ownership thru Lead – Plan – Allocate – Prioritize – Control - Develop
- Proven experience in piloting & managing multiple UAV configurations such as multirotor, fixed-wing & hybrid systems.
- Strong understanding of UAV behaviour, flight dynamics, flight-control systems and operational limitations, flight-test procedures, SOPs, risk assessment & emergency recovery.
- Strong resource planning and task-prioritization capability. Demonstrated people leadership and team-management skills.
- Strong problem-solving and on-field troubleshooting capability. Ability to work effectively with Engineering teams and other cross-functional teams.
- Strong communication, documentation and reporting skills. High level of operational discipline & safety consciousness.
- Ability to work at remote locations and under demanding field conditions.
- Ability to establish processes, standardize working practices and drive accountability.
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, Mechanical, Electronics
- 7-8 years of relevant UAV flight-test / Test Pilot experience, with demonstrated experience in operating multiple UAV platforms.
- Experience in leading or coordinating a team of Test Pilots. Demonstrated experience in multi-site or remote UAV flight-testing / field-test coordination.
- Experience in handling complex, developmental and non-standard flight-test activities.