About this role
To conduct remote sensor operations for manned airborne and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) missions, providing proficient and independent operation of Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR), Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR), radar and associated mission systems. The role supports Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) tasking through effective mission planning, sensor employment, near real-time reporting, data handling and post-mission exploitation. The post holder is expected to operate at Intermediate / Proficient Operator standard and support RPAS payload activity, trials, training and evidence capture where required. Mission Planning and Execution Prepare for airborne and RPAS tasks through review of tasking, Air Tasking Orders, route, airspace, collection requirements, customer outputs and crew briefings. Operate independently on a variety of land, maritime, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, making tactical sensor decisions and managing mission flow without constant supervision. Receive and action dynamic tasking from ground command elements, 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 and task outcomes are understood. Advanced Sensor Operation and Troubleshooting Operate sensor systems to collect still imagery, full motion video and track moving targets for extended periods. Conduct Hailing, Phase 1 PED Imagery Intelligence, pattern of life, surveillance, reconnaissance and target tracking tasks to required customer and mission standards. Use sensor functions to maximise collection quality, including appropriate zoom, focus, gain, polarity, metadata, look angle and image framing. Troubleshoot common sensor, ground station, communications, downlink, display, recording and data transfer issues before escalating. Data, Reporting and Exploitation Store, back up, label and disseminate raw mission data in line with company procedures and customer handling requirements. 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) and report it using recognised standards Maintain accurate mission records, flight logs and evidence packs to support quality assurance, customer reporting and future tasking. RPAS and Remote Mission Systems Operate or support RPAS payload systems from a ground control station, remote sensor console or deployable mission system environment. Work effectively with remote pilots, payload operators, aircrew, Task Specialists, intelligence analysts and liaison officers to maintain a shared tactical picture. Contribute to RPAS trials, payload integration, procedure development and evidence capture.