Command and Control Link Policy Specialist

Command and Control Link Policy Specialist

Salary: £58,000 up to £65,000 per annum dependent upon experience

Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time

Security Level: BPSS

Location: London or Gatwick (Typically, 8 days per month in person presence across the month).

Visa Restrictions: This position does not offer visa sponsorship

The Role

The CAA is looking for a technical specialist to work with our transformative Future of Flight Programme. The role focuses on development of our command and control (C2) link policy to enable Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS, often referred to as drones) to fly safely within ever more integrated airspace.

The C2 link is the data communications pathway between remote pilot and the UAS and is fundamental to safe operations. You will lead the development of policy addressing any potential loss of the C2 link and contribute to establishing the C2 link policy as a core part of the CAA's drive to enable beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations into lower UK airspace.

You will work closely with the C2 Policy Lead, technical colleagues, industry stakeholders, and government partners to produce robust, proportionate policy that enables safe uncrewed operations.

You will also support related technical workstreams, in particular Detect and Avoid (DAA) and position navigation and timing (PNT) policy, depending on priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of policy for loss of C2 link, including defining scope, criteria, and regulatory requirements.
• Expand existing C2 link policy for lower risk operations (SAIL 1-3 under the UK's SORA framework) to higher risk operations (SAIL 4 and 5) and beyond.
• Provide technical and policy advice across the wider programme to support integration of C2 link policy with other regulatory areas.
• Support related DAA, PNT and other Future of Flight workstreams as required.
• Support related workstreams such as SORA applications, sandbox and testing activity, BVLOS trial planning, and safety oversight.
• Keep abreast of communication performance metrics (e.g. latency, availability, integrity, continuity), relevant standards, and emerging technology developments.
• Prepare high quality policy papers, impact assessments, consultation documents, and regulatory guidance.
• Represent the CAA in stakeholder and industry events, consultations and inter agency discussions, providing authoritative technical input.
• Provide constructive challenge as required, identifying risks, assumptions, and evidence gaps.
• Deputise for the C2 Policy Lead when required.

Qualifications and Experience

• Understanding of C2 link performance issues in uncrewed aircraft BVLOS operations, including the safety implications of lost link.
• Experience and understanding of other aspects of uncrewed aircraft design development and operations, for example collision avoidance systems, flight control, mission systems, PNT, etc.
• Familiarity with SORA/SAIL methodology and ability to apply risk based regulatory thinking in uncrewed aviation.
• Sound knowledge of communication performance metrics relevant to C2 links and an understanding of industry standards or practices.
• Proven ability to analyse complex technical or operational information and to convert this into clear, proportionate regulatory policy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including stakeholder engagement, and ability to contribute in technical discussions at a high level.
• Ability to manage multiple workstreams and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Experience developing or influencing aviation policy, regulation or technical criteria in a regulatory, industry or standards setting context.
• Previous experience in traffic management, flight operations, communications engineering or uncrewed aviation regulation.
• Operational knowledge of uncrewed aircraft systems or possession of a recognised drone licence or qualification.
• Experience of testing programmes, sandbox trials, operational trials or safety investigations relating to uncrewed or remotely piloted operations.

Person Specification

You are collaborative and effective working in multidisciplinary teams. You think analytically and strategically and understand operational interdependencies. You communicate clearly and confidently with technical experts, policy colleagues, industry and government stakeholders. You are comfortable questioning assumptions, ensuring evidence underpins policy decisions. You show attention to detail, adapt to change and demonstrate commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Inclusive Recruitment

We are an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a role with us will be guaranteed an interview. We use fair and inclusive selection approaches to hire the best person for the job based on merit alone. If you require an adjustment for any reason, please let us know.

Benefits

• Flexible working arrangements
• Free onsite gym at Gatwick
• Discounted gym membership for London
• 28 days annual leave
• Additional 5 days leave purchase scheme
• Generous pension scheme