Drone Operator

About the role

Raptor Maps is hiring Drone Operators who will sit at the core of our turnkey data collection. You will manage mission planning and drone flights, ensuring accuracy and quality that meet our exacting standards. This is a task based role that requires attention to detail and proper tracking of work completed in our systems.

Part 107 pilots will plan, schedule, and execute missions following established protocols and working closely with our internal team of data collection specialists. This is a remote contract role with location and schedule dictated by the work assigned. 

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

Preferred start date: April 7, 2026

Locations:

• Remote - California
• Remote - Illinois 
• Remote - Massachusetts
• Remote - Minnesota
• Remote - New York / New Jersey
• Remote - North Carolina
• Remote - Texas

What you'll do

• Schedule: Maintain and update mission calendar
• Plan: Create, organize, and store portfolio of mission plans
• Check: Conduct regular safety and preflight checks following established protocols
• Fly: Deploy unmanned systems to capture data utilizing automated missions; monitor and maintain safe operations utilizing all available systems and engage in manual flight control as necessary
• Verify: Document work completed and any deviations from expected operations 
• Deliver: Ensure complete upload of data from drone to cloud systems
• Work with team to ensure continuous improvement, document process changes, and define exceptions that will drive the team’s success
• Escalate matters appropriately utilizing SOPs, proper channels, and critical thinking
  
  

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 on Skydio and/or DJI enterprise equipment with thermal sensors
• Experience applying for and receiving LAANC authorizations, COAs, and Waivers
• Familiarity with Slack for team communication
  
  

Preferred Equipment, Environment, and Connectivity

• Enterprise Thermal Drone; Skydio X10, DJI M3T or M4T
• Reliable phone service for emergency communications
• Reliable vehicle for travel to/from inspection sites
• 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
• Hardline internet service (cable or fiber) with at least 50 Mbps down / 50 Mbps up