About this role
To support the Sensor Operator function across airborne and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) operations, with a focus on mission preparation, data handling, reporting, imagery exploitation and post-mission evidence management. This is an entry level role suited to a graduate or early career candidate with a background in intelligence, data analysis, aviation, geospatial analysis or a related field. The post holder will be trained to support live mission activity, with occasional sensor operation required once competent, authorised and supervised in line with company procedures. Mission Planning and Execution Support Prepare for airborne and Remote tasks through review of tasking, Air Tasking Orders (ATOs), route information, airspace, collection requirements, customer outputs and crew briefings. Support land, maritime, surveillance and reconnaissance missions by helping to manage mission flow, collection priorities, reporting rhythm and information handover. Receive and action dynamic tasking from ground command elements under the direction of the Task Specialist or mission lead, adapting search patterns, sensor priorities and reporting flow as the situation develops. Conduct clear handovers, crew briefings and post-flight debriefings, ensuring risks, collection gaps, task outcomes and follow-on actions are captured. Data, Reporting and Exploitation Store, back up, label and disseminate raw mission data in line with company procedures, customer handling rules and security controls. Produce clear oral and written reports, including near real-time updates and post-mission flight reports, with accurate timings, coordinates and event summaries. Support Level 1 Processing, Exploitation and Dissemination (PED) by manipulating, processing and analysing digital aerial imagery and spatial data. Extract Imagery Intelligence (IMINT) from collected imagery and support reporting Maintain mission records, flight logs and evidence packs to support quality assurance, customer reporting, future tasking and traceability. Sensor Operation and Mission Support Undertake occasional sensor operation when trained, assessed and authorised, supporting Electro-Optical and Infrared (EO/IR), still imagery, video and other mission sensor outputs as required. Assist the Task Specialist in maintaining target track, collecting required imagery, capturing event detail and supporting mission reporting during live operations. Use mission systems, ground station tools and communication platforms to receive, display, record and transfer mission information accurately. Develop practical competence in airborne and RPAS mission environments, including safe working around aircraft, live operating areas and deployed locations. Compliance, Security and Professional Standards Handle customer data, operational information and imagery with discretion, applying company and customer handling instructions at all times. Follow aviation safety, security, Crew Resource Management (CRM), fatigue and operational reporting procedures. Raise risks, collection issues, equipment concerns or reporting gaps promptly to the Task Specialist, mission lead or line manager.