Safety Pilot

As a Safety Pilot within our Flight Test & Demonstration team, you will play a critical role in the safe execution of flight tests, demonstrations and operational missions across TEKEVER platforms.

You will work closely with Remote Pilots and Flight Test teams, monitoring flight operations, identifying and mitigating risks, and taking appropriate action when required to maintain safe operations. You will operate in dynamic and challenging environments, where sound judgement, situational awareness and the ability to respond quickly are essential.

You will also contribute directly to the improvement of TEKEVER products by providing practical feedback on aircraft performance, handling, limitations and operational behaviour observed during testing and demonstrations.

What will be your responsibilities?

• Support the safe execution of flight tests, demonstrations and UAS operations, working closely with the RPIC and flight crew;
• Monitor flight operations and the surrounding environment, identifying hazards and taking appropriate action to mitigate risk;
• Support pre-flight planning, risk assessments, aircraft inspections and post-flight debriefings;
• Monitor aircraft behaviour and performance during flight, identifying anomalies, limitations or potential safety concerns;
• Provide real-time support during flight operations, including responding to system failures, unexpected conditions or other operational hazards;
• Ensure flight activities are conducted in accordance with applicable regulations, company procedures and safety standards;
• Maintain accurate records of flights, incidents, observations and safety-related events;
• Provide operational and flight-test feedback to engineering and product teams to support continuous improvement of TEKEVER platforms;
• Support the development and continuous improvement of flight test and demonstration procedures;
• Maintain your own currency and competency across the TEKEVER platforms relevant to your role;
• Support and mentor UAS operators and other team members on safe operating practices and risk mitigation.

Profile and requirements

• Location: Portugal
• Language: Advanced English proficiency, with proven fluency at C2 level. Portuguese, Spanish or French is a plus;
• Strong situational awareness, decision-making and communication skills;
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in dynamic and potentially high-pressure flight environments;
• Comfortable working hands-on in flight test and demonstration environments;
• Willingness to travel and support flight operations and demonstrations when required.

Nice to have

• Aviation experience, including ground school and live flying experience on any type of aircraft;
• Experience in flight testing, flight demonstrations or operational aviation;
• Knowledge of meteorology (MET) and airspace operations;
• A1/A3 certificates (CAA/EASA);
• A2 Certificate of Competence;
• Pilot licence (LAPL, PPL, HPL or equivalent);
• Good level of Maths and Physics;
• Engineering qualification or licence.

What we have to offer you

• A dynamic and collaborative working environment, with the opportunity to make a real impact
• A competitive salary package, aligned with your proven level of experience
• Meal allowance and health insurance for employees
• Shuttle transport service to the offices in Leiria, Caldas da Rainha and Ponte de Sor
• Bonus in line with company policy
• Access to the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)