Key Responsibilities
• 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. Key Success Metrics
• 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 Key Skills & Competencies
• 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.
• Robust 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. Education & Experience
• 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. Powered by Webbtree

📌 Lead Pilot V&V (Navi Mumbai)
🏢 IdeaForge
📍 Navi Mumbai