Assistant Survey Field Technician 3

GAI Consultants•Canonsburg, PA

About The Position

GAI is seeking an Assistant Survey Field Technician 3 to support surveying and mapping projects in the Southwest Pennsylvania area. The position involves operating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) equipped with LiDAR and photogrammetry sensors, collecting and processing data, and integrating UAS results with traditional survey methods. Projects include topographic mapping, terrain modeling, construction and infrastructure monitoring, environmental and land development surveys, and advanced LiDAR and photogrammetry workflows. The technician coordinates with survey crews, project managers, engineers, office personnel, and clients. The role may lead tasks and crews of up to two other people, and can involve working independently. Fieldwork takes place outdoors in varying conditions and requires travel as needed. The description estimates outdoor exposure, walking on uneven terrain, and operating trucks off-road in various weather conditions at approximately 60% of the day for each activity.

Requirements

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
At least 2–3 years of experience, as stated in the minimum experience section; the qualifications section specifies 3+ years of UAS operations experience focused on LiDAR data collection.
Proficiency in LiDAR processing software.
Familiarity with photogrammetry software such as Pix4D.
Strong understanding of GNSS systems and data integration.
Excellent organizational and communication skills, including effective oral and written communication.
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
Ability to work outdoors in varying conditions and travel as needed.
Intermediate GPS and survey skills; understanding of survey nomenclature and coordinate geometry.
Ability to download or transfer files from a data collector and operate total stations and data collectors.
Ability to set up tripods and levels and understand survey equipment use, calibration, and care.
Steady hand and ability to make the precise measurements required for survey work.
Ability to use hand tools safely.
Ability to travel up to 25% on weekdays; very occasional weekend travel and/or work may be required.
Ability to lift or maneuver up to 35 pounds.
Ability to work outdoors, walk long distances on uneven terrain, operate mid-size or full-size trucks off-road in varied weather, and navigate construction landscapes; each is described as approximately 60% of the day.
Ability to occasionally work at heights and wade through water.

Nice To Haves

Swimming skills.
Experience riding in a boat.

Responsibilities

Operate UAS platforms with LiDAR and photogrammetry sensors for mapping, construction, and infrastructure projects.
Plan and execute UAS missions in compliance with FAA regulations and safety protocols.
Process and analyze LiDAR and aerial imagery data using industry-standard software.
Collaborate with survey crews, project managers, engineers, and office personnel to integrate UAS data into project deliverables and coordinate group assignments.
Maintain and troubleshoot UAS equipment and ensure it is operationally ready.
Document flight operations and data collection activities for project records.
Support GNSS localization and machine control workflows, and integrate UAS data with traditional survey methods.
Lead effective safety talks and conduct quality management checks on survey activity, including horizontal and vertical measurement accuracy.
Operate total stations, data collectors, GPS equipment, levels, and other survey equipment; transfer files from data collectors.
Set up tripods and levels and care for and calibrate delicate survey equipment.
Begin leading tasks and, when needed, work independently or lead crews of up to two other people.
Communicate effectively with staff, clients, and field representatives and help maintain a positive, harmonious team environment.