About Zipline
Do you want to change the world? Zipline is on a mission to transform the way goods move. Our autonomous drone delivery technology is changing last mile logistics across the world - from powering critical blood delivery in Rwanda to providing a faster and better way to deliver orders for retail and restaurant partners across the United States.
The technology is complex but the idea is simple: a logistics system that delivers what you need, when you need it. Using AI and autonomous robotics, Zipline is decarbonizing delivery, decreasing road congestion, and providing equitable access to billions of people.
We are a bunch of passionate and pragmatic problem solvers - who believe it's possible to build a business that is both good for the world and commercially successful. If this sounds like you, join us on our journey.
About the Role
Zipline is seeking a Chief Pilot to lead our Australian drone flight operations. This role is responsible for managing all aspects of flight safety, operational training, crew oversight, and regulatory compliance. You'll play a key role in shaping operational policy and ensuring seamless coordination between our Australian and HQ teams. This is a key leadership appointment in our Australian operation and reports to the Managing Director of Zipline Australia.
This position combines traditional Chief Pilot accountability with modern autonomous aviation operations leadership. The Chief Pilot sets operational standards, ensures regulatory alignment, oversees crew proficiency and performance, and partners cross-functionally to integrate evolving aircraft platforms and autonomous capabilities. The role is critical to maintaining Zipline's safety culture while enabling rapid, disciplined growth across multiple operational sites.
The ideal candidate is a certified pilot with both manned and unmanned experience, has a deep understanding of CASA regulations, and thrives in dynamic, high-growth environments.
What You'll Do
* Lead and oversee Zipline's Australian drone flight crews across commercial operations
* Own and maintain operational documentation, manuals, and procedures for sUAS missions
* Develop and manage training programs, including ground and flight qualification, in partnership with global stakeholders
* Monitor operational safety, flight compliance, and training currency
* Conduct risk assessments, safety audits, and assist in new site setup prior to launch
* Act as a mentor and instructor for flight crew development and performance
* Continuously improve operational policies and processes for scale and safety
* Ensure CASA regulatory compliance under a certified operational framework
What You'll Bring
* CASA Private or Commercial Pilot Certificate
* CASA Remote Pilot Certificate
* Bachelor's degree
* 3+ year experience in the UAS sector
* Expertise in developing flight manuals, procedures, and training content
* Strong organizational and leadership skills
* Ability to work independently and solve complex problems in real-time
* Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
Bonus If You Have
* Flight instruction or standardization experience (manned or unmanned)
* Working knowledge of Safety Management Systems (SMS)
* Experience supporting certified aviation operations or regulatory engagements
What Else You Need to Know
Zipline is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard torace, color, ancestry, national origin, religion or religious creed, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, military or veteran status, citizenship, or other characteristics protected by state, federal or local law or our other policies.
We value diversity at Zipline and welcome applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. If you like the sound of this position but are not sure if you are the perfect fit, please apply!
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