The Drone Operator is responsible for planning, scheduling, and executing automated drone missions to collect high-quality data. They must ensure safe flight operations, document all work, and maintain clear communication with the internal team.
About the role
Raptor Maps is hiring contract Drone Operators who will sit at the core of our in-field 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.
What you'll do
Schedule: Maintain and update mission calendar.
Plan: Create, organize, and store a 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.
Implement provided flight specifications and ensure guidelines are followed.
Drone Operator may occasionally be asked to ship equipment.
Attend virtual trainings.
Represent Raptor Maps in the field and communicate professionally with on site personnel.
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.
Insurance Requirements: Aviation, Commercial Liability, Automobile, and Workers Compensation
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
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Marketing Manager
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