Lead UAS Pilot

GFT • Kansas City, MO

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

GFT is seeking a Lead UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team in the central region of the US. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at our Kansas City, MO, Fort Worth or Houston, TX office. Join our exciting and fast-growing Reality Capture Team, providing a full range of UAS survey, mapping and bridge inspection services on a national level. Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition cameras & video, thermal, LiDAR and other payloads. You’ll work on complex, high-impact infrastructure and transportation projects using advanced LiDAR and survey-grade UAS platforms. This role also offers the opportunity to help shape and scale UAS operations at a national level.

Requirements

• AA Degree from a Technical School or a BS from an accredited institution.
• Professional experience with multi-rotor drones (3-years or more preferred).
• FAA Part 107 license required.
• Understanding of all components of RPAS, as well as the ability to troubleshoot technical issues in the field.
• Knowledge of proper operations of sUAS per FAA Part 107 regulations.
• Knowledge of drone mapping software.
• Ability to work independently and/or as part of a small team.
• Ability to travel 50% of the time, when needed for Emergency Response work, and on some weekends.
• Ability to work outdoors with limited facilities and resources for extended periods of time in various conditions and climates.
• Must be able to lift 50lbs.
• Operate and travel in company vehicles for extended field deployments.
• Previous field work experience required.
• Must make safety #1 priority at all times.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience with Harris Aerial, Freefly, and Riegl LiDAR Platforms desired.
• Previous surveying, data processing, or engineering experience a plus.
• Prior supervisory experience a plus.

Responsibilities

• Collect top quality LiDAR data for transportation and infrastructure projects.
• Conduct pre-mission planning with project managers to clarify objectives and deliverables.
• Develop flight plans, check NOTAMS, check weather and coordinate airspace integration with any effected controlling agencies or privately property owners.
• Perform equipment setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Solve problems in real-time and deliver acquired data in a timely manner.
• Establish survey-grade control for sUAS projects utilizing GNSS equipment.
• Perform “close proximity flights” on bridge superstructures and challenging environments.
• Assist in developing and administering a structured UAV training program.
• Maintain, inspect, clean, and occasionally repair UAS equipment.
• Manage small field crew (2-4 people), field schedule, and project expectations.
• Articulate and communicate effectively via text, email and verbally.

Benefits

• Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree