First Officer (KSA)

Overview

Draken is hiring First Officers for its Lear XR60 and Challenger 604 aircraft operating in Saudi Arabia in support of a contract with the Royal Saudi Air Force. These aircraft are permanently based in Saudi Arabia and will be part of an expanding mission-support capability, with the fleet expected to develop toward a modern electronic warfare role.

The opportunity is aimed at pilots who want to contribute to a significant operational build-out from the outset, working in a professional environment where mission readiness, safety, and teamwork are essential.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain safe, compliant, and efficient flight operations in accordance with regulations and internal procedures.
• Support the Commander across all phases of flight, following company SOPs at all times.
• Plan and carry out specialised flying tasks, including formation operations.
• Work closely with the wider crew to achieve mission aims while upholding strong professional standards.
• Develop and preserve positive working relationships with colleagues and customers, representing the company to a high standard.
• Take prompt and appropriate action in emergency situations when needed.

Qualifications and experience

• The role requires pilots to hold a CPL or ATPL and the aircraft-specific qualifications relevant to First Officer duties.
• UK CAA (f)ATPL(A) or ATPL(A) is required.
• A valid UK CAA Class 1 Medical is required.
• Candidates must have at least 500 hours of total flight time.
• Jet experience is preferred.
• Applicants should currently hold, or have previously held, a Multi-Engine IR.
• MCC training is required.
• AUPRT training is required.
• Ability to obtain and keep UK MOD security clearance is necessary, subject to nationality restrictions.

Additional information

Draken places strong emphasis on people, professional standards, and a culture of respect and inclusion. The company states that it is committed to eliminating unlawful and unfair discrimination and values the different perspectives that a diverse workforce brings.

The organisation describes itself as Armed Forces friendly and welcomes applications from veterans and service spouses and partners who meet the job criteria. Reasonable adjustments can be provided during the interview process for candidates who need them under Disability Confident commitments.

Draken also highlights its broader operational capability across adversarial support, electronic attack, and customised rotary-wing training, supporting defence readiness in the UK, US, and NATO countries.

Who can apply

Qualified pilots who meet the licence, medical, flight time, training, and security clearance requirements for this role in Saudi Arabia may apply. Applications are welcomed from veterans and service spouses/partners who satisfy the published criteria.