Lead UAS Pilot

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.

What you’ll be challenged to do:

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.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

• 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.
  

• 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.
• Ability to maintain, inspect, clean, and occasionally repair UAS equipment.
• Ability to manage small field crew (2-4 people), field schedule, and project expectations.
• Able to articulate and communicate effectively via text, email and verbally.

• 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.

• 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.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.

GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions. 

Location: Kansas City, MO, Fort Worth or Houston, TX. 
Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Employment Status: Full-Time

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