Field Maintenance Manager (Drones/UAV)

We are a South African specialist recruitment service provider with technically qualified and experienced consultants. Our services include complete and specialised recruitment solutions and effective human resource services as well as in-depth and accurate market research offerings. Our management team brings years of experience, a well-developed network, recruiting skills along with a dynamic approach to a vast and complex industry. A well-established company specializing in advanced drone technology and solutions, primarily focusing on the agricultural sector is seeking the above to be responsible for establishing and managing robust maintenance systems, technical processes, service standards, and field support operations for agricultural drones and related technologies. This role requires a strong technical background in aircraft maintenance, UAV systems, or related aviation disciplines, combined with excellent troubleshooting, leadership, and operational management capabilities. Minimum requirements for the role: Qualified Aircraft Technician / Aircraft Maintenance Technician or valid Remote Maintenance Technician (RMT) Valid Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) or currently in the process of obtaining one would be preferred Minimum 5 years' experience in aircraft, UAV, aviation, or related technical maintenance environments Knowledge of aviation safety and regulatory requirements is essential Proven experience implementing and managing technical processes and maintenance systems Experience working with autonomous systems and advanced electronics would be preferred Previous experience within UAV, drone, aviation, agricultural technology, or robotics industries Experience conducting technical investigations, root cause analysis, and warranty assessments Must have a strong understanding of preventative maintenance principles and technical documentation Must have experience managing field service or technical maintenance teams Experience with agricultural drones or precision farming technologies is essential Strong technical and mechanical aptitude Excellent troubleshooting and diagnostic skills Must have a valid driver's license and be willing and able to travel extensively when required Proficient in Afrikaans and English (spoken and written) The successful candidate will be responsible for: Managing and overseeing UAV maintenance, repairs, diagnostics, and servicing activities. Leading field maintenance operations and ensuring high levels of equipment reliability and uptime. Conducting advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis on UAV systems and components. Performing and overseeing preventative maintenance programmes and service schedules. Conducting testing, commissioning, calibration, and verification of UAV systems. Performing and overseeing test flights following repairs and maintenance activities. Ensuring drones are maintained in accordance with operational, safety, and manufacturer standards. Supporting customers on-site with technical servicing, repairs, commissioning, and operational troubleshooting. Assisting with pre-delivery inspections, configuration, and deployment of new UAV systems. Developing, implementing, and continuously improving maintenance procedures, SOPs, workflows, and service processes. Establishing strong maintenance controls, reporting structures, and service documentation systems. Driving operational efficiency and ensuring consistency in maintenance and repair standards. Implementing quality assurance measures and technical best practices across all maintenance activities. Ensuring accurate service records, maintenance histories, warranty documentation, and technical reports are maintained. Introducing systems and controls to improve turnaround times, inventory management, and service delivery. Ensuring compliance with aviation, UAV, safety, and operational standards. Leading and managing warranty investigations and technical assessments. Conducting crash, incident, and failure investigations to determine root causes. Compiling detailed technical investigation reports with corrective action recommendations. Liaising with suppliers, manufacturers, and internal stakeholders regarding warranty claims and technical escalations. Identifying recurring technical issues and implementing preventative measures. Ensuring all investigations are properly documented and closed out. Providing technical leadership and mentorship to technicians and support staff. Supporting sales teams with technical demonstrations and customer engagements when required. Delivering exceptional customer support and maintaining strong customer relationships. Providing technical guidance and operational support to clients in the field. Assisting with training customers on maintenance, operation, and best practices where required.