- Reference number: 25687
- Term: Ongoing, full-time basis
- Remuneration: $158,080 to $165,606 pa (HEW9) (inclusive of $133,579 to $139,939 salary pa, 17% superannuation and 17.5% recreation leave loading)
- Location: Kelvin Grove
- Open to: This position is open to applicants who have ongoing full-time work rights in Australia. In support of our strategic priority of Indigenous Australian success, Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking a Chief Remote Pilot to join Research Infrastructure, Research Portfolio, Academic Division.
The Chief Remote Pilot provides leadership and management of all aviation activities of QUT, with a special focus on the delivery of remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) services across the university, ensuring compliance with regulatory bodies (e.g. Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)). This position leads and enables QUT’s RPAS services team through active contribution as a certified RPAS operator. In addition, this position provides leadership and management of activities at QUT's Space Technology Precinct (Yandiwanba), including the provision of technical expertise and management of building infrastructure to establish and operate the Lunar Testbed Facility. The role will ensure that the Yandiwanba facility and RPAS team enable research and provide solutions to academic and industry clients through the effective management and deployment of appropriate human, physical and virtual resources. In addition, the Chief Remote Pilot will ensure the design and implementation of effective and efficient systems and processes at Yandiwanba and will provide leadership in planning future capabilities aligned with QUT’s research priorities. The Chief Remote Pilot will drive engagement with researchers, collaborators and industry partners.
We’re offering this role as a hybrid position as part of QUT’s commitment to embracing the opportunities created by a more virtual and connected world.
About us
QUT is a major Australian university with a global outlook and a 'real world' focus. We are an ambitious and collaborative institution that seeks to equip our students and graduates with the skills they will need in an increasingly disrupted and challenged world.
The Research Engineering Facility (REF) provides cutting-edge research engineering and technology services including experimental hardware design, systems integration, software engineering and proof-of-concept validation and testing. Capabilities span drones and aviation, robotics and autonomous systems, energy systems, design and systems integration, structural engineering and testing, and data acquisition, processing and management. REF’s Kelvin Grove presence is primarily focused at Yandiwanba - a Space Technology Precinct for research, design, prototyping, systems integration, validation and verification of autonomous systems. This facility is the host location for QUT’s RPAS and Remote Sensing group, and of the Lunar Testbed Facility..
What you need to succeed
- Education, training and/or experience equivalent to the completion of postgraduate qualifications and extensive relevant experience in Engineering, Applied Science, or Aviation Science.
- Successful completion of the CASA Instrument Rating Theory Examination (IREX), eligibility to apply for or hold a CASA Remote Pilot’s Licence (RePL) for multirotor < 25kg and fixed wing < 120kg, and demonstrated knowledge of CASA procedures and processes to enable BVLOS approvals.
- Demonstrated experience and ability to build, lead and manage a high performing team; including developing team culture, monitoring performance, providing feedback, allocating work, and staff training and development.
- Demonstrated organisational skills and the ability to coordinate a diverse range of complex activities within a resource constrained environment, with a focus on delivering client’s needs while maintaining the highest level of compliance and respect.
- Evidence of innovative approaches to problem solving and contribution to continuous improvement in operational processes through future-focused thinking.
- Demonstrated high level interpersonal and communication skills in support of brokering connectivity and collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders.
- Knowledge of, or ability to rapidly acquire knowledge of policies and procedures (including ethics and intellectual property) associated with the establishment of research and commercial projects in a university context.
Life at QUT
We're committed to building a culture that fosters connection between people and purpose. Beyond personal and professional fulfillment, a career at QUT offers:
- A healthy work-life balance with a blend of on-campus and off-campus work arrangements for applicable positions.
- Competitive remuneration with up to 17% superannuation and leave loading of 17.5%.
- Generous maternity leave including primary carer parental leave of up to 26 weeks (including 17% super).
- Stay healthy with Fitness Passport and enjoy discounted rates on private health insurance.
- Purchased Leave Scheme - up to 8 extra weeks.
- Salary Packaging Scheme for additional superannuation contributions, vehicle leasing, and on-campus services such as childcare, parking, and gyms.
- Numerous opportunities for professional development including leadership programs and workshops, and our study assistance scheme.
- Commitment to our Indigenous Australian staff through initiatives such as the Indigenous Australian Staff Network, Cultural and Ceremonial Leave, Staff Development Workshops, and representation on university committees.
Explore more benefits of life at QUT.
Belong at QUT
We are guided by our values of Ambition, Integrity, Inclusiveness, Innovation, and Academic Freedom and our QUT Connections in our mission to inspire and shape the next generation of change-makers.
As part of our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace, we proudly support our Indigenous Australians Employment Strategy, aiming for an Indigenous Australian workforce participation of 3.6%. We extend a warm invitation to Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islander people to join us in pursuing a rewarding career at QUT.
We believe that diversity is our strength and are dedicated to creating safe, inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage individuals from diverse cultures, ages, linguistic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities, and those who are living with disabilities to apply for positions at QUT.
At QUT, diversity is not just embraced—it's celebrated. See our commitment
How to Apply
Discover the possibilities that await with a career at QUT. If you're ready to embark on a journey of innovation and opportunity, we're excited to meet you.
Find out more about this position and submit your application by clicking 'Apply' or the link below.
View the job details at: 25687 - Chief Remote Pilot
Job opens: 28-Nov-2025
Applications Close: 18-Jan-2026 at 11.30pm
