Deputy-Chief Remote Pilot & Maintenance Controller

About the opportunity

Queensland Government’s DETSI Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) program is seeking a Deputy-Chief Remote Pilot & Maintenance Controller at PO6 level in the Gold Coast area. In this position, you will combine maintenance control leadership with deputy remote pilot duties, helping the department operate its drone fleet safely, lawfully, and in line with the organisation’s Remote Pilot Operator’s Certificate (ReOC).

Key purpose of the role

This position covers oversight of all departmental RPAS maintenance, both planned and unplanned, across divisions. You will also provide strategic and practical support for the upkeep of other departmental aircraft, while ensuring full compliance with CASA requirements, the Civil Aviation Act 1988, and associated regulations.

Responsibilities

• Manage RPAS maintenance programs so aircraft and payloads remain airworthy and aligned with CASA standards.
• Develop and maintain asset management systems to ensure aircraft and equipment are purchased, serviced, and replaced efficiently.
• Track aircraft serviceability and make sure maintenance work follows the Maintenance Manual and scheduled maintenance requirements.
• Oversee approved pilots and other authorised staff carrying out maintenance tasks, and confirm they remain competent for those duties.
• Examine RPAS defects, strengthen maintenance standards, and monitor compliance with those standards.
• Keep maintenance and operational records in the form required by CASA and the department.
• Carry out Deputy-Chief Remote Pilot duties and step in as Chief Remote Pilot when required.
• When acting as Chief Remote Pilot, review and approve flight plans submitted by departmental pilots and manage electronic approval and record systems.
• Support the Chief Remote Pilot in ensuring all flying activity is safe, lawful, and compliant with relevant state and federal legislation.
• Assist with training and development activities for pilots and crew across the department.
• Monitor operating standards and assess the proficiency of departmental pilots and crew working under the departmental ReOC.
• Ensure operations and maintenance activities comply with the Queensland Government Drones Strategy, Queensland Government Drones Use Policy, and DES RPAS Policy.
• Help build procedures and professional relationships to secure approvals for work in controlled or restricted airspace, including dealings with CASA, Airservices Australia, and the Department of Defence.
• Work with other DES units to deliver practical service outcomes, including disaster recovery and incident response support.
• Contribute to research and ongoing capability development for aircraft and payloads.
• Prepare or assist with maintenance procedures, schedules, briefs, manuals, reports, papers, and communications for internal and external audiences.
• Provide advisory support to senior leaders, colleagues, and other Queensland Government agencies using RPAS in their operations.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders such as CASA, Airservices Australia, ATSB, Department of Defence, Queensland Police Service, Department of Transport and Main Roads, Department of Resources, and others.
• Assist with incident investigations and reviews, including required reporting to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau and internal incident processes.
• Help foster a workplace that supports First Nations people and contributes to better outcomes through departmental work.
• Promote a respectful, inclusive, and safe workplace free from bullying, discrimination, and harassment.

Additional information

Applications will remain active for 12 months.

Occupational group

Aviation