Job Title: UAS Pilot

Location: Various

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary:

The UAS Pilot in the Aerial Operations Center (AOC) operates remote unmanned aerial systems (UAS), coordinates airspace, develops flight plans, manages data, and supports aerial operations across the system. This role also provides supplemental support for field operations as needed. Candidates must possess strong technical expertise, keen attention to detail, adaptability to diverse environments, a willingness to travel, and excellent communication and customer service skills. 

Key Responsibilities:

UAS Operations

• Operate UAS to conduct aerial inspections, surveys, and data collection for various projects.
• Serve as a FAA Remote Pilot-in-Command (RPIC), ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Plan and execute flight missions, including pre-flight and post-flight inspections of UAS equipment.
• Analyze weather conditions to ensure safe and effective flight operations.
• Collect, process, and verify aerial data meets desired quality and consistency standards.
• Maintain accurate flight logs and operational reports.
• Troubleshoot and conduct routine maintenance on UAS systems and equipment.
• Provide training to other pilots (initial, qualification, progression, and advanced) as needed.
• Assist in developing UAS operational standards, techniques, and training programs.
• Serve as a visual observer and technical advisor, as needed.

AOC Support

• Airspace Management: Coordinate and support the company’s airspace management program, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and managing airspace deconfliction.
• Dispatch & Scheduling Support:Authorize and schedule aerial contractors, UAS pilots, UAS operations, and manned aircraft activities to meet operational needs.
• Contractor Administration:Liaise with aerial contractors, Supply Chain, and system stakeholders to ensure adherence to company policies and compliance requirements.
• Emergency Support: Assist in restoration efforts during emergencies (e.g., storms), coordinating with Air Traffic Control (ATC), FAA, and emergency agencies to maintain safe airspace operations.
• Data Analytics: Leverage operational data to monitor and improve the efficiency of aerial operations, contributing to process enhancements and performance reporting.
• Customer Support: Provide help-desk support within the AOC, including technical assistance, airspace authorizations, and flight scheduling for internal and external stakeholders.

General

• Support and participate in the Safety Management Program.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to achieve operational objectives.
• Stay current on industry trends, FAA regulations, and UAS technology advancements.
• Complete administrative tasks, such as documentation and reporting, in a timely and accurate manner.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by Leadership.

Qualifications:

• Ideal candidate will have 1 – 2 years of moderate field experience, complex inspections & operations
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required
• OEM-Specific Training preferred
• In-depth knowledge of FAA regulations, UAS operational standards, aviation weather analysis, airspace operations, and authorization processes.
• Valid Driver’s License (ability to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License [CDL] if requested).
• Proficiency in UAS technology, including flight planning software and aerial data processing tools.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in diverse settings.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for coordination and customer support.
• Willingness to travel and adapt to various working conditions for UAS operations.
• Military experience in unmanned/uncrewed systems or flight operations is a plus

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Engineering, Aviation, Geospatial Science) preferred.
• Experience with UAS operations in the energy sector.
• Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies.
• Proficiency in data analysis, management, reporting, and product development.
• FAA Part 61 Pilot License.

Working Conditions:

• UAS Field Operations are primarily conducted outdoors in various weather conditions, with extensive travel (100%).
• AOC activities are primarily indoors, with occasional travel to support field operations or emergency response. 
• Flexibility to work non-traditional hours as needed (Day 75%, Night 25%).