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.
