Drone Pilot

Overview

Nova Sky Stories empowers artists and producers to bring awe and wonder to live audiences. As a global leader in drone entertainment, we redefine live shows by merging cutting-edge drone technology with imaginative artistry. Headquartered in the U.S. with teams across Europe and the UAE, Nova Sky Stories works with world-leading brands, venues, and events.

Follow us: @Nova Sky Stories

We are seeking a skilled Person Manipulating the Controls (PMTC) to operate our large-scale drone light show systems under the authority of a designated Pilot in Command (PIC).

The PMTC is the hands-on flight operator responsible for executing launches, monitoring the drone fleet in real time, and responding to aircraft and system behavior throughout the show. While the PIC retains full legal and safety authority, the PMTC plays a critical role in live execution and operational performance. This role sits at the intersection of aviation, robotics, and live entertainment, supporting synchronized fleets of hundreds to thousands of aircraft at some of the world’s most high-profile events.

• Serve as a pilot responsible for flying shows and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, guidelines, and best practices. Prioritize the safety of spectators, crew members, and surrounding airspace.
• Operate Nova’s drone fleet during live shows as the Person Manipulating the Controls. Execute launches, holds, aborts, and recoveries under the direction of the PIC. Monitor aircraft health, telemetry, GNSS, and communications during flight.
• Operate Nova’s ground control systems, networking, and flight software. Load, verify, and execute flight plans and show content. Respond in real time to system alerts, aircraft faults, or degraded conditions.
• Lead load-in and load-out of the airfield & pilot system setup. Conduct pre-flight checks on drones, batteries, ground infrastructure, and control systems. Assist with post-flight inspections, logging, and maintenance reporting.
• Coordinate closely with ground crew, technical staff, and event organizers to communicate flight plans, timing cues, and other operational considerations before, during, and after shows.
• Provide continuous feedback and evaluation of performance metrics to identify areas of improvement and optimization.
• Fly large-scale drone light shows: 200-2000 drone light shows using the system.
• Assist with drone repairs.

• Proficient in interpreting several incoming streams of data and managing time-critical activities. Able to stay focused and decisive during high-pressure live operations.
• Basic understanding of engineering/electronics/software engineering to perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting on drones.
• Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal. Proactive communication is highly valued.

• Experience flying large fleets or synchronized UAS systems
• Background in aviation, robotics, or live technical production
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks (FAA, EASA, GCAA, etc.)
• Experience working in touring or event-based operations
• Willing to travel up to several weekends per month, to various states/countries, and stay 2-3 nights to support a show. Opportunities may exist for extended periods in drone residencies.
• Willing to lift loads up to 20kg/44lb, work outdoors, and set up equipment

• Highly reliable, organized, and execution-focused.
• Calm under pressure and effective in an onsite operating environment.
• A clear, proactive communicator who escalates issues early and appropriately.
• Team-oriented, humble, and eager to learn.
• Motivated by operational excellence, consistency, and continuous improvement.
• Interested in growing into increased production ownership over time.

Additional roles

Nova Sky Stories seeks a Creative Director to advance storytelling within the Sky Story industry. You will develop innovative, inspiring story concepts and collaborate with the Nova Design Studio to bring ideas to life. The role spans industries including theme parks, music, and fine art, with focus on cultural storytelling such as tourism, heritage sites, and…