Location: Fareham
We are seeking an experienced and proactive MMRO Chief Technician to oversee ground testing, air test support, maintenance, and technical operations for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This role involves leading a small team of technicians both at the main factory and, ideally, at deployed locations as part of a multifunctional operational team.
Role Overview
You will plan, coordinate, and lead a team responsible for modification, maintenance, testing, and repair activities on ULTRA-class Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. When based at the factory, you'll work alongside other technical teams; when deployed, you will take a hands-on leadership role supporting flying operations.
Key Responsibilities
MMRO Delivery & Technical Leadership
Plan, lead, and complete:
Scheduled and unscheduled maintenance
Fleet-wide modifications
Post-manufacture, role-specific modifications
Product development modifications in collaboration with engineering/R&D
Sub-component manufacture or testing required for modification tasks
Conduct ground testing for:
Fault diagnosis and confirmation
Quality assurance following manufacture or modification
Diagnose and rectify faults identified during ground testing
Support flight operations with ground handling, refuelling, and maintenance
Maintain accurate electronic records for aircraft and equipment
Ensure workspace organisation, cleanliness, and safety standards
Provide clear feedback to engineering and availability management teams on system challenges
Leadership & Team Development
Lead, mentor and develop your MMRO team to meet organisational objectives
Set team targets aligned to business pace and growth
Promote continuous learning and professional development
Lead by example in adherence to company policies, culture, and safety practices
Encourage transparent reporting of safety concerns and risks
Managerial Responsibilities
Operational Delivery
Set clear team goals aligned to organisational strategy
Oversee day-to-day operations and project delivery
Balance resource planning, risk management, and deadlines in a dynamic environment
Functional & Technical Ownership
Own delivery of critical functional or technical areas
Ensure outputs meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards
Subject Matter Expertise
Provide expert technical leadership within MMRO domains
Support cross-functional operations, particularly when deployed
Collaboration
Work closely with Flight Operations, Engineering, and Customer Success teams
Ensure strong two-way communication between teams and management
Continuous Improvement
Uphold documentation, quality, and compliance standards
Recommend and implement process improvements for efficiency and scalability
Encourage innovation within a fast-evolving environment
People Leadership
Lead, coach, and support team members
Conduct regular 1:1s, performance reviews, and career development planning
Build a high-performance, inclusive, and respectful team culture
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
Experience leading and supervising vehicle technicians (air, automotive, marine, or rail)
Strong background in mechanical and/or electrical/electronic fault diagnosis
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to interpret engineering drawings or manufacturing/modification documentation
Proficient in Microsoft Office
Experienced in project or progress management software (e.g., ERP tools)
Experience reading MCAD and ECAD drawings
Right to work in the UK
Ability to obtain required vetting or security clearances
Desirable
Experience supervising both mechanical and electrical/electronic diagnostic work
Willingness to occasionally work from remote UK or overseas locations
Adaptability and a strong desire to learn new skills
Additional Information
This job description outlines the key responsibilities and expectations of the role but is not exhaustive. Duties may evolve based on organisational needs. Continuous professional development is encouraged and supported