Drone Specialist

Drone Specialist, Debris Management

Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled and innovative Drone Specialist to support debris management operations by utilizing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for post-disaster assessments, monitoring, and documentation. The ideal candidate will be proficient in drone operations, data analysis, and geospatial mapping to streamline debris evaluation, site planning, and reporting. This role plays a critical part in enhancing the efficiency and safety of debris management efforts during disaster recovery.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Drone Operations:

· Conduct drone flights to assess disaster-affected areas and capture high-resolution imagery, videos, and geospatial data.

· Monitor debris collection, transport, and disposal activities using aerial surveillance.

· Perform inspections of Temporary Debris Storage and Reduction (TDSR) sites to ensure operational efficiency and compliance.

2. Data Collection and Analysis:

· Analyze aerial data to estimate debris volumes, types, and geographic distribution.

· Utilize drone-captured data for creating geospatial maps, 3D models, and operational reports.

· Provide actionable insights to stakeholders for debris management planning and decision-making.

3. Compliance and Safety:

· Ensure all drone operations comply with FAA regulations, local ordinances, and organizational policies.

· Perform pre-flight and post-flight equipment checks to ensure safe and reliable operations.

· Develop safety protocols for drone operations in disaster-affected environments.

4. Reporting and Documentation:

· Generate detailed reports, including visual and geospatial data, to support reimbursement processes and regulatory compliance.

· Maintain accurate records of drone flights, equipment usage, and collected data.

5. Stakeholder Collaboration:

· Work closely with debris monitoring teams, emergency management agencies, and local governments to coordinate drone operations.

· Provide training and guidance to staff on the integration of drone data into debris management workflows.

Qualifications:

Education:

· Bachelor’s degree in Geospatial Science, Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be considered.

Experience:

· 2–3 years of experience in drone operations, disaster recovery, or geospatial analysis.

· Familiarity with debris management and federal and local government guidelines is a plus.

Certifications:

· FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required).

· GIS certification (e.g., Esri, GISP) is preferred.

Skills:

· Proficiency in drone operation and maintenance, including experience with commercial-grade UAS platforms (e.g., DJI, Skydio).

· Knowledge of geospatial software and tools (e.g., ArcGIS, Pix4D, DroneDeploy).

· Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to work under pressure in disaster response environments.

Work Conditions:

· Frequent travel to disaster-affected areas, including fieldwork in challenging environments.

· Flexible schedule, including long hours during active disaster response periods.

· Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Employment Type:

Full-time or contract position based on operational needs.

Salary Range:

Hourly equivalent $25.00 -$40.00, depending on experience and qualifications.

How to Apply:

Submit your resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $25.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25 - $40