BVLOS UAS Operator

About the role

Raptor Maps is hiring contract BVLOS UAS Operators who will sit at the core of our remote data-collection drone operations. You'll manage mission planning and remotely operate dock-based unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring safe, accurate, high-quality data capture that meets our exacting standards. This is a task-based, long-term contract role (after the initial trial contract period) that requires strong attention to detail, uninterrupted focus during active flight operations, and accurate tracking of completed work in our systems.

Part 107 pilots will plan, schedule, and execute BVLOS missions from an approved remote workspace, follow established protocols, and work closely with our internal team of data collection specialists. This is a remote position with minimal to no travel expected. Operators may support flights in controlled airspace and coordinate with ATC facilities as required.

Prior titles may include Flight Coordinator, Remote Pilot, Drone Pilot, UAS Operator, or BVLOS Operator.

What you'll do

• Schedule: Maintain and update mission calendars to support efficient remote flight operations across sites.
• Plan: Create, organize, and store mission plans in accordance with established procedures, operational requirements, and approvals.
• Check: Conduct regular safety, system, airspace, and preflight checks following established protocols.
• Fly: Remotely operate unmanned aircraft systems to capture data through automated missions, monitor and maintain safe operations utilizing all available systems, and assume manual flight control as necessary.
• Operate BVLOS: Execute approved Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) missions from a remote workspace, supporting dock-based drone operations across the United States and, as approved, internationally.
• Controlled Airspace: Support operations in controlled airspace, communicate with Air Traffic Control (ATC) facilities when required, and comply with applicable airspace authorizations and procedures.
• Airspace Awareness: Utilize internal and external systems to maintain situational awareness, identify potential airspace conflicts, and ensure operations remain within approved parameters.
• Multi-Drone Operations: Participate in authorized one-to-many and multi-aircraft operations while maintaining continuous attention and safe operational oversight.
• Deliver: Ensure mission data is properly organized, filed, and flagged for upload in accordance with established internal workflows.
• Improve: Work with the team to drive continuous improvement, document process changes, and help strengthen and scale the remote flight operations program.
• Escalate: Escalate operational, safety, or technical matters appropriately utilizing SOPs, established communication channels, and sound critical thinking.
• Mission Impact: Capture high-quality aerial data that helps solar asset owners maximize system uptime, operational performance, and profitability.
  
  

Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 certificate
• Proven track record of safe flight operations 
• Proficiency in operating DJI enterprise and/or Skydio UAS systems
• Demonstrated ability to maintain uninterrupted attention during active flight operations
• Attention to detail in scheduling, file management, and documentation of work
• Communicate clearly and effectively across email, phone, team messaging tools, and meetings
• Ability to learn and navigate new computer systems
• Must be legally authorized to work in the US without sponsorship now or in the future.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Utility-scale solar inspection experience
• 50+ flight hours operating DJI Enterprise and/or Skydio UAS equipment with thermal sensors
• Experience supporting or conducting Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations
• Experience applying for, receiving, or operating under LAANC authorizations, Certificates of Waiver or Authorization (COAs), and FAA waivers
• Experience operating in controlled airspace and communicating with Air Traffic Control (ATC) facilities
• Familiarity with aviation technology and airspace awareness systems, including ADS-B, radar, and related operational tools
• FAA Sport Pilot, Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate
• Bachelor’s degree in Commercial Aviation, Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Aeronautics, Aviation Management, or a related field
• Familiarity with Slack for team communication

Preferred Equipment, Environment, and Connectivity

• Reliable phone service for emergency communications

• Dedicated workspace free from distractions when not traveling

• Computer with 16+GB RAM and:

• MacOS 14.x or later or Windows 11 Pro

• Chrome browser

• Two or more 22”+ monitors

• Audio in/out capability

• Hardwired internet service (cable or fiber) with at least 50 Mbps down / 50 Mbps up