The Role of Chief Mission Aircrew Instructor Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR)
The role of Chief Mission Aircrew Instructor (ISR) is an exciting opportunity to support current training operations at Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose and be at the forefront of the delivery of a wide range of new ISR training courses for both the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force under the UK Military Flying Training System Future ISTAR and Rear Crew Training System contract (FIRCTS).
As the Chief Mission Aircrew Instructor (ISR) you will be a business leader, accountable for ensuring a motivated, qualified, current, and standardised cadre of instructors are made available to deliver the daily instructional task. You will also be an experienced line manager, responsible for the performance management, wellbeing and professional development of a large cadre of multi-skilled instructors.
Initially, the role will also require you to support the successful transition to the new FIRCTS contract, leading the instructional team to provide subject matter expertise to the programme and managing positive customer and training provider relationships through the transition to the new training system.
You will:
* Role model the 'Just' Flight Safety Culture and set best practices for your team to report and mitigate air safety risks.
* Support the General Managers at Culdrose and Cranwell in delivering strategic objectives aligned with the Ascent Business Plan and the Annual Flight Training Programme.
* Support the Head of Flight Operations in managing a professional team of Ascent instructors within the wider business Centre of Excellence for Aviation and Instruction.
* Support the FIRCTS programme manager to successfully deliver the new training contract.
* Manage positive, collaborative relationships with our customer and training partners.
* Lead continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the company's quality system.
* Provide subject matter expertise to assess and mitigate operational risks.
* Oversee courseware effectiveness and ensure training materials meet high standards.
* Collaborate across departments to share expertise and drive operational excellence.
What will make you successful in the role of Chief Mission Aircrew Instructor (ISR)
You're already a Qualified Instructor from a Mission Aircrew (ISR) background with proven leadership experience. You build strong, values-driven relationships and understand the importance of collaboration with our partners in the training system. You're passionate about developing others and thrive on seeing your team grow in capability and confidence.
Essential Criteria:
* Demonstrate strategic thinking and operational awareness.
* Communicate clearly and lead with integrity.
* Embrace innovation and continuous improvement.
* Experience of effective people management of a large team.
Desirable Criteria:
* Strong understanding of current Military ISR operations and training (RAF and RN).
* Experience of managing change within an established operation.
* Knowledge of modern synthetic training systems and Computer Based Training
* Experience of project management or working within a high performing project team.
Qualifications for a Chief Mission Aircrew Instructor (ISR)
* Essential: Qualified Aircrew Instructor (ISR – any discipline)
* Desirable: A recognised leadership or management qualification.
Candidates who do not meet the essential requirements are encouraged to apply if they are on a pathway to achieve the requirements in the future.
Finally, if you feel that you don't meet all the criteria included above but have transferable skills and relevant experience, we'd still love to hear from you
Working Arrangements
This role is based at RNAS Culdrose, Cornwall and will require occasional travel to other UK sites including the FIRCTS training establishment at RAF College Cranwell, Lincolnshire and the Ascent Hub in Bristol. It is a full-time role, 40 hours per week and provides a stable Monday to Friday work schedule with no weekend flying.
We're proud to foster a flexible and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. Whether you're working onsite or remotely, we support a culture that encourages collaboration, individuality, and work-life balance.
What's in it for you?
Ready to thrive in a role where your wellbeing, growth, and future are genuinely valued? We're not just offering a job we're offering a career with purpose, perks, and people who care.
* Competitive salary with annual reviews
* 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays) increasing with length of service
* Private AXA healthcare for you and your family
* Up to 6% matched pension and life assurance worth 3x your salary
* Enhanced maternity/paternity leave and growing sick pay
* Mental health support including Unmind subscription for you plus 1
* Personal development plans tailored to your goals
* Free eye tests plus help with glasses for screen users
* Flexible benefits: dental, cycle-to-work, electric car scheme, retail discounts & more
* 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial & emotional support
?Security Clearance
Please note that many roles within Ascent Flight Training are subject to strict security restrictions. These may affect your eligibility based on factors such as, your nationality (current and former), place of birth or residency history
All applicants must, at a minimum, meet the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). In addition, many positions require higher levels of National Security Vetting, which typically demand continuous UK residency to enable thorough background checks.
For this role, the successful candidate must be able to obtain Security Check (SC) clearance and must be a sole UK national.
For further details, please refer to the official guidance on United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels – GOV.UK.
Ascent Flight Training was appointed in 2008 to design and deliver a modern and efficient flying training system by the UK MOD.
Created as a joint venture between Lockheed Martin UK AND Babcock International; and is responsible within the UK Military Flight Training System (UKMFTS) for the training design and training delivery that creates the next generation of aircrew.