Drone pilot & Operations Engineer

CDDS (Counter‑Drone Defense Systems) develops low‑collateral kinetic interceptors that neutralize malicious drones, protecting critical infrastructure across Europe. As a Drone Pilot & Operations Engineer you will help bring cutting‑edge control, guidance and state‑estimation algorithms to high‑speed interceptor drones, contributing directly to mission‑critical technology that safeguards lives and assets. Your daily work will involve piloting interceptor drones, supporting flight operations, and organizing field tests. You will assemble, integrate, calibrate and maintain UAV systems, and troubleshoot technical issues both in the workshop and on‑site. The role also requires ownership of flight operations, assistance with platform integration and production, and continuous improvement of test workflows in a fast‑moving startup environment. The position demands solid flight experience with UAVs and proven hands‑on work with assembling, integrating and calibrating drone systems. Strong practical and troubleshooting abilities are essential, as is comfort working outdoors during field tests. You must be willing to travel frequently to test locations and customer demonstrations worldwide. A background in production, manufacturing or mechanical assembly is advantageous, as are EASA drone certifications (A1/A3, A2, STS or equivalent), competitive robotics or UAV competition experience, and a valid driver's licence. The role is based near Zurich Hardbrücke (Zurich City) with an ASAP start date, offering high ownership, a technical and ambitious team, real‑world deployments and attractive compensation. What the role asks for: - Flight Experience with UAVs - Experience assembling, integrating, calibrating UAV systems - Strong practical and troubleshooting skills - Comfortable working outdoors and testing - Open to travel often - Nice to have: background in production or mechanical assembly - Nice to have: EASA drone certifications (A1/A3, A2, STS) - Nice to have: competitive robotics or UAV competition experience - Nice to have: driver's license