Field Services Target Operator

Job title: Field Services Target Operator  
Location: Ashford, Kent 
Company: QinetiQ Target Systems
Hours: Full-time, permanent

Req ID: 20574

About the role

We are currently recruiting for a Target Operator to join QinetiQ Target Systems (QTS) within our Field Services Team.  QTS is a wholly owned subsidiary of QinetiQ Group PLC, specialising in the design and manufacture of a range of state-of-the-art Unmanned Aerial and Surface Target systems, including the world-leading Banshee target.

QTS targets are used to enable realistic weapons test and evaluation and operator training in over 40 countries worldwide, with QTS providing a complete managed service in over 15 of these countries.

What will I be doing?

Reporting to the Field Services Team Leader, you will be an active team member in the service delivery of unmanned aerial and surface targets, to assist in the training requirements of defence forces around the world.  Target Operators build and test target systems, as well as conduct maintenance, packing, and shipping of all parts, systems and ancillary equipment necessary for the deployed service delivery that the team conducts

Duties will include:

• Build, test, repair and disassembly of aerial and surface targets, in accordance with operator manuals and service bulletins, range standard operating practises and flight test schedules


• Repairs may include line replacement units as well as fibreglass repairs and engine tuning and maintenance


• Fault diagnosis of targets, launchers, ground equipment and ancillary equipment


• Refuelling of the targets


• The preparation and removal of target payloads


• Handling and preparing pyrotechnics


• Assistance with the operating of the launcher systems


• Conducting target retrieval from recovery areas


• Complete post flight checks and replenish or repair as necessary


• Engine running and tuning


• Desalination of targets post sea recovery


• Maintenance of all ground support equipment where specified


• May assist in training of the systems to others


• Familiarity with boat and boat target operations


• Extensive travel internationally, which can be at short notice

What do I need?

You will have experience of working in a field / deployable environment and be calm and able to work under pressure.

You’ll be an excellent team player who is enthusiastic and committed to the role / team and have a full National Driving Licence.

We also ask that you:

• have a basic understanding and appreciation of the principles of flight


• are qualified to GCSE level in maths and English


• ordinarily hold and maintain competency to operate a hydraulic crane (HIAB)


• are willing to become a first aider


• have good IT skills


• are a good communicator, both written and oral

The following would be an advantage:

• Domain knowledge of unmanned aerial targets systems including ground, target and control systems


• An Engineering HND / HNC qualification or relevant apprenticeship

Please note that all applicants must be eligible for SC clearance as a minimum.

UKSV National Security Vetting Solution: guidance for applicants - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Joining QinetiQ offers you an opportunity to work on a broad range of exciting defence-based projects, with vast career progression across a global organisation, in addition to competitive personal and professional benefits.

You’ll receive a competitive salary and benefits package: our basic salaries are very attractive, as we constantly review what’s happening in the market.

The range of benefits we offer include ample holiday entitlements, generous employer pension contributions, enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay, and the ability to purchase discounted Health Cash Plans, Private Medical Insurance, and Dental Insurance, plus much more.

Please note that applications are reviewed as they are received, so we encourage early applications. This vacancy will be closed when sufficient suitable applications are received.