DFR Solutions Architect

Motorola Solutions • Washington, DC

1d • $85,000 - $95,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

This role is part of the Cloud Deployment Operations Organization, driving the full solution lifecycle and field deployment services for Motorola Solutions’ CAPE drone command-and-control software. We specialize in assessing customer requirements, designing complex system architectures, and executing sophisticated cloud deployments. Our mission is to empower public safety organizations to launch advanced Drone as a First Responder (DFR) programs that ensure seamless operations and community safety.

We are actively seeking a highly motivated, seasoned, and technically proficient Drone as First Responder (DFR) Solutions Architect with a strong background in drone technology to assume this critical role within the Cloud Deployment Operations Organization. This position is vital for supporting Motorola Solutions' advanced drone command-and-control software, CAPE, which empowers public safety agencies to establish and manage sophisticated DFR programs. This position is crucial for assessing customer requirements, designing end-to-end DFR solutions, leading their sophisticated deployment, and providing expert post-implementation support to ensure optimal and life-saving operations. The responsibilities span the full solution lifecycle, from defining system architecture and integration strategy to providing expert remote and onsite support. The ideal candidate possesses an exceptionally deep and practical understanding of complex public safety drone operations, solution architecture, a genuine passion for innovative problem-solving, and superior communication and interpersonal skills.

Requirements

• Proven experience in solution architecture, systems integration, or technical deployment engineering within the UAS/drone industry or public safety sector.
• Deep familiarity with IP networking, cellular data routing (LTE/5G), cloud computing, software integrations (APIs), and public safety CAD/RMS systems.
• Strong understanding of current DFR market trends, competitive ecosystems, and advanced drone hardware docking technologies.
• Ability and willingness to travel 50-75% of the time.
• Bachelor's degree required (preferably in Computer Science, Engineering, Aviation, or a related technical field).
• 3+ years of drone related work experience.
• Valid FAA Part 107 Remote Drone Pilot Certification.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. indefinitely is required.
• Employer work permit sponsorship is not available for this position.
• Must be able to obtain background clearance as required by government customer.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Consult with public safety customers to conduct detailed needs assessments, meticulously designing tailored Drone As First Responder (DFR) solutions.
• Define system architecture, hardware requirements, and integration strategies after thoroughly reviewing the customer's current infrastructure, networks, and operational goals.
• Architect end-to-end data workflows ensuring that live video streams, telemetry, and captured evidence comply with Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) security standards and local agency retention policies.
• Lead the full lifecycle, end-to-end deployment of critical DFR and tactical drone programs, mapping out all deployment and integration details to ensure a successful system launch.
• Conduct physical site readiness and infrastructure engineering assessments, including evaluating optimal rooftop placements, automated docking stations ("drone-in-a-box" technology), power delivery, weatherproofing, and local structural or zoning compliance.
• Ensure successful system launch and full operational status, taking ultimate responsibility for closing the CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) operational steps following physical installation and customer training.
• Design and implement technical integrations between the CAPE software platform and agency Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Records Management Systems (RMS).
• Configure automated dispatch triggers that allow drones to autonomously launch and navigate to incident coordinates immediately upon a 911 call being logged in the CAD system.
• Act as a technical consultant to public safety agencies navigating the regulatory landscape required for advanced DFR operations.
• Assist clients in defining the technical safety cases required to secure complex FAA waivers, specifically Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and Tactical BVLOS (TBVLOS) clearances.
• Ensure deployment architectures adequately support required airspace awareness systems (e.g., Radar, ADS-B receivers, and UTM frameworks) to maintain strict FAA compliance.
• Serve as the premier technical expert for post-deployment customer support, providing high-level technical guidance, diagnosing complex issues, and collaborating to resolve operational issues promptly.
• Perform comprehensive technical troubleshooting of network configurations (e.g., cellular modem/routers, APN profiles, VPNs, and priority/preemption networks like FirstNet), PC/OS updates, and drone hardware/uplink connections.
• Provide expert onsite support (50-75% travel required) for deployment, optimization, and troubleshooting.
• Provide remote support where appropriate.
• Actively support the sales team by participating in client meetings, industry events, and conducting detailed, live product demonstrations of the CAPE suite for prospects and partners.
• Manage pre-sale consultations, prepare technical presentations, coordinate complex demo logistics (equipment, power, connectivity), and secure necessary site-specific flight permissions and documentation.
• Serve as the internal Subject Matter Expert (SME), consulting directly with the internal Training Team to provide necessary technical and operational input for developing comprehensive training methodologies.

Benefits

• Incentive Bonus Plans
• Medical, Dental, Vision benefits
• 401K with Company Match
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Generous Paid Time Off Packages
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Paid Parental & Family Leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior