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Head of Aircraft Operations (all genders)

Full-Time · Munich, Hybrid
We are looking for an operational leader who can take NEX Aero from prototype flights to safe, scalable commercial operations.

At NEX Aero, you will design and run a SORA-compliant operational framework, secure BVLOS approvals, and integrate our aircraft into maritime, offshore, island, and remote logistics missions. You will build strong partnerships with local operators and ensure our operational infrastructure, procedures, and safety systems meet the highest standards for mission-critical environments.

This is a hands-on, critical role at the core of NEX Aero’s market entry strategy. Your leadership will directly determine how quickly and successfully we transition from development to certified, revenue-generating operations across multiple markets.

YOUR MISSION/RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead All Drone Flight Operations

- Oversee all aspects of NEX Aero’s drone flight operations, ensuring full compliance with the SORA framework, EASA and national aviation regulations, and internal Safety Management Systems (SMS)

- Own the operational readiness roadmap from prototype to commercial deployment

- Hold ultimate accountability for operational safety, reliability, and mission success

Develop and Implement the Operational Framework

- Design, execute, and scale NEX Aero’s operational model under SORA methodology for BVLOS and high-complexity missions

- Define and enforce operational risk assessments, mitigation strategies, and compliance pathways across all active markets

- Drive integration between operational requirements and aircraft design, autonomy stack, and certification milestones

Forge Strategic Operational Partnerships

- Identify, negotiate, and manage relationships with local drone operators in target launch markets to support pilot projects and scaling

- Establish operational integration frameworks enabling partner-run missions that meet NEX Aero’s safety and performance standards

- Secure ground handling, maintenance, and infrastructure partnerships for rapid market entry

Operational Infrastructure and SOPs

- Define and deploy infrastructure for take-off and landing pads, maintenance facilities, and remote operations centers

- Create and enforce standard operating procedures for mission planning, fleet management, emergency response, and incident reporting

- Ensure readiness for safe, coordinated, and compliant multi-drone operations across multiple locations with the systems, trained personnel, and infrastructure in place to scale without loss of safety or performance

YOUR PROFILE

- Minimum 8 years in UAS, manned aviation, or aerospace operations, with 3+ years in a senior leadership role

- Direct expertise in EASA SORA, JARUS guidelines, and BVLOS operational approvals

- Proven track record in building and leading flight operations from the ground up

- Demonstrated success managing certification-aligned operational deployments and engaging directly with regulators

- Established network with local drone operators, regulators, and aviation authorities
- Strong grasp of maritime, offshore, or remote logistics operational environments is a significant advantage
- Skilled in high-stakes partnership negotiation and governance
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment: decisive, hands-on, and execution-focused

- Fluent in English; additional languages such as German or other languages are an asset

- Willing and able to travel internationally for operational setup and partner engagement
If you're ready to build the operational backbone of a company redefining how the world moves, we’d love to hear from you! 🚀

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Do you currently have the legal right to work in the EU?

Please note: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the EU at the time of application.
Do you currently have the legal right to work in the EU?
We build systems for the real world, and we believe the best ones come from teams that think differently, challenge assumptions, and reflect the diversity of the world they serve.

Who We Are - NEX Aero

At NEX Aero, we are redefining how critical cargo moves across the world. We design, build, and operate next-generation heavy-duty drones capable of reaching places traditional logistics can’t, connecting remote communities, enabling urgent healthcare deliveries, and strengthening supply chains in a changing world.

Based in Berlin and Munich, we are an ambitious team of engineers, operators, and innovators working hands-on at the intersection of aerospace, clean technology, and logistics. Our work moves beyond prototypes, it creates real-world impact where reliability, reach, and resilience matter most.

At NEX Aero, you won’t just build systems. You’ll help unlock access, progress, and opportunity for industries and communities worldwide.

Benefits — What You Can Expect

- Purpose-Driven Work: Join a mission that matters, advancing sustainable logistics and connecting the disconnected.

- Cutting-Edge Innovation: Work hands-on with next-generation drone systems, hydrogen technologies, and autonomous operations.

- Fast-Paced Learning: Grow faster through deep technical challenges, field missions, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

- Collaborative Culture: We value clear communication, radical ownership, and low-ego teamwork across every role and level.

- Professional Growth: Shape your role as we scale, with opportunities to lead projects, innovate solutions, and expand your expertise.

- Attractive Locations: Work from our R&D lab at Berlin TXL or our Munich hub, with flexible hybrid options depending on your role.

- Real-World Impact: See the results of your work directly, from successful flight tests to critical deliveries that move what matters most.

At NEX Aero, we are serious about the mission, and we enjoy the ride. If you're driven by innovation, collaboration, and building something that flies toward real-world impact, you’ll find your place here.