Russia’s largest jobs portal, HeadHunter, is advertising for drone operators to help protect the skies over Moscow, as authorities seek recruits for a volunteer air defence unit amid continuing drone attacks.The job advertisement says candidates are being recruited for the Combat Army Reserve Force, which is responsible for “ensuring the capital’s security using modern technical solutions and surveillance systems,” as cited by Reuters. It adds that no previous experience is required for the role.“You will work with high-tech equipment designed to protect the urban environment,” the advertisement said.According to the advertisement, applicants need only “basic technical skills” and “a desire to progress in the field.” The position offers a starting salary of 150,000 roubles (about $1,950) a month, below Moscow’s average monthly wage of more than 200,000 roubles.The job description lists responsibilities including pre-flight preparation and operation of drones, reconnaissance missions, and “conducting flights to collect datasets, by day and at night.”A review of the employer posted by a user identified as “Lead Inspector” described the workplace positively, stating: “An excellent, close-knit team; there were great opportunities for growth, a positive corporate culture, the chance to choose work that suited my interests, and support from management. Salary is performance-based, meaning you can increase your earnings.”Ukraine has intensified its long-range strikes inside Russia, targeting energy infrastructure and military-linked facilities, while some attacks have also damaged civilian sites.The strikes on Russian oil refineries have disrupted fuel supplies, contributing to a fuel shortage that has led Russia, the world’s third-largest oil producer, to import gasoline.Russia has responded by increasing its aerial attacks on Ukrainian cities. Last month, one such strike damaged a 1,000-year-old cathedral in Kyiv that holds religious significance for the Orthodox communities of both countries.
