Senior UAV Operator

Company Description

SGS Australia is a leading provider of Testing, Inspection, and Certification services, supporting multiple industries across the country with trusted expertise and technical excellence. Backed by SGS’s global legacy of over 140 years, we operate one of the largest networks of accredited laboratories and field facilities in Australia, with a network of more than 50 offices and laboratories and over 1,400 employees across Australia. We are accredited by NATA and ISO 9001, ensuring our services meet both Australian and international standards.

Fulcrum Robotics, part of SGS, is a leader in Industry 4.0, driving a new way of managing risk by leveraging remote sensing, unmanned systems, automation, AI and ML. Fulcrum Robotics is a leading provider of asset integrity and environmental services across Australia, New Zealand and the APAC region. We use advanced robotics, unmanned systems and remote sensors to help industries manage risk and compliance, inspect, monitor and manage critical environments and infrastructure safely and efficiently. 

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Senior UAV Operator to join our Huntingfield-based team. This senior position combines advanced UAV operations with robotic inspections, software development, and technical leadership. You will play a key role in delivering high-quality inspection and survey outcomes across Tasmania and nationally, supporting major programs such as the TasNetworks Aerial Survey and other client-driven initiatives.

The role requires strong regulatory compliance, technical expertise in UAV-mounted sensors, and the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative, safe, and commercially successful outcomes.

Responsibilities include, however are not limited to:

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Operations

• Conduct UAV operations in strict compliance with CASA regulations and internal procedures across a range of projects, including TasNetworks Aerial Survey and other programs.
• Balance UAV field operations with programming and software development, ensuring efficient execution of both operational and technical tasks.
• Collaborate with internal teams to identify innovation opportunities and integrate new technologies, including AI and IoT solutions, to support business operations.
• Work collaboratively with management to enhance UAV inspection methodologies, operational strategies, and software/system development initiatives.
• Ensure all UAV works are completed to a high level of accuracy and quality.
• Demonstrate flexibility to work on projects that may span statewide and national locations, as reasonably required.

Robotic Operations

• Conduct unmanned and robotic operations in compliance with applicable regulations and internal guidelines.
• Maintain operational assets, ensuring equipment is safe, serviceable, and supported by preventative maintenance programs.
• Complete all operational and administrative requirements, including activity reporting, maintenance logs, pre-start checklists, and client-facing reports.

Qualifications

Essential Requirements

• Relevant engineering qualifications and/or demonstrated industry experience aligned with client industries and markets.
• NDT qualifications and industry experience (mandatory).
• Demonstrated experience in UAV-based asset inspection and condition assessment.
• CASA Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) with commercial drone experience (mandatory).
• Proven experience using UAV-mounted sensors, including LiDAR, thermal imaging, and photogrammetry.
• Strong safety leadership with a clear commitment to safe operations.
• Excellent report writing, analytical, and computing skills.

Desirable Experience and Attributes

• Experience across water, resources, energy, utilities, or infrastructure sectors.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CAD, ESRI, CloudCompare, and related software platforms.
• Confined space and working-at-heights certifications.
• Strong client engagement and communication skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships.
• Existing client relationships within relevant industries highly regarded.
• Willingness to travel nationally and work in remote environments as required.
• Current driver’s licence (HR truck licence desirable).

Additional Information

WHY WORK FOR SGS?

Working at SGS means joining an innovative, Global company. Here are some of the benefits to working for SGS. 

•    As a company, we have embraced the shift to flexible work
•    Sustainability is embedded in our culture and the way we do business
•    Paid parental leave
•    Paid time for volunteering day and blood donations
•    Corporate health & wellbeing offers
•    Ongoing learning & development 
•    Career development opportunities (Nationally and Globally)
•    SGS Rewards: Our employee benefits platform with access to retail and online discounts and cashback

COME TO WORK AND BE 100% YOU

SGS Australia supports a diverse workforce, we encourage applications from people of all ages, nationalities, abilities, and cultures – including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the LGBTQI+ community and people living with disability. Providing employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is an important part of our SGS Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). We truly believe the diversity among us will continue to foster a strong, innovative, and forward-thinking workplace.

SGS Australia acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual, and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.