Drone Operator
On-siteMoab, Utah, United States
Job Summary
Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections of drone systems while executing automated and manual missions for surveying, mapping, and stockpile measurements. Operate unmanned aerial systems in a 24/7 mining environment during day and night shifts, monitoring telemetry, battery status, and airspace restrictions to ensure compliance with FAA, MSHA, and safety standards. Collect aerial imagery, LiDAR, and photogrammetry data, verify outputs, and prepare reports for stakeholders while coordinating with mine supervisors and engineering teams. Respond to equipment malfunctions and emergency situations, maintaining accurate flight logs and maintenance documentation. Perform routine troubleshooting and coordinate repairs with vendors. Requires FAA Part 107 certification, valid driver's license, and ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions on active surface or underground mining sites.
Required Qualifications
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required)
- Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record
- Ability to obtain and maintain site-specific mining and safety certifications
- High school diploma or GED required
- Associate degree or technical training in aviation, geospatial technology, engineering, surveying, or a related field preferred
- Minimum 2 years of professional drone operating experience preferred
- Experience operating drones in industrial, construction, mining, energy, or similar environments preferred
- Understanding of mining operations, mine safety procedures, and site hazards
- Experience with drone mission planning software and flight management systems
- Knowledge of aerial surveying, photogrammetry, GIS, LiDAR, or mapping technologies preferred
- Ability to read maps, site plans, and technical documents
- Familiarity with weather impacts on drone operations
- Strong commitment to safety
- Excellent situational awareness and decision-making skills
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
- Attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping
- Ability to remain alert and focused during extended monitoring periods
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Ability to walk on uneven terrain and active mining sites
- Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
- Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, and kneel for extended periods
- Ability to maintain visual observation of aircraft during flight operations when required
- Rotating 24/7 shift coverage including nights, weekends, and holidays
- Safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing
Desired Qualifications
- Associate degree or technical training in aviation, geospatial technology, engineering, surveying, or a related field preferred
- Minimum 2 years of professional drone operating experience preferred
- Experience operating drones in industrial, construction, mining, energy, or similar environments preferred
- Knowledge of aerial surveying, photogrammetry, GIS, LiDAR, or mapping technologies preferred
- Experience with autonomous drone operations
- MSHA training or mining industry experience
- GIS, surveying, photogrammetry, or LiDAR experience
- Experience managing multiple simultaneous drone missions
- Advanced drone certifications or manufacturer-specific training
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