UAS Pilot III

The UAS Pilot III is an advanced field pilot responsible for independently leading flight missions, executing complex RGB, LiDAR, and thermal collection operations, and supporting crew productivity and data quality across assigned T&D inspection projects. With a minimum of two years of professional UAS experience in utility or infrastructure environments, the UAS Pilot III is a technically strong, self-directed operator capable of troubleshooting field equipment, making sound decisions in demanding conditions, and mentoring junior pilots and visual observers.

This role actively supports field production targets, safety standards, and the consistent delivery of complete, high-quality aerial data.

• Lead flight mission planning for assigned projects, including site assessment, airspace authorization, hazard identification, JSA review, weather evaluation, and development of efficient flight plans that meet project data capture requirements.
• Brief the field crew on mission objectives, flight plan, site hazards, emergency procedures, and client-specific requirements before each operation.
• Adapt mission planning and execution in real time to respond to changing field conditions, equipment performance, or unexpected site constraints.
• Coordinate with the Field Survey Supervisor regarding mission status, production progress, and any issues affecting flight operations or data quality.

• Independently execute complex aerial missions using RGB, LiDAR, and thermal sensor payloads over T&D poles, conductors, and infrastructure, operating with minimal supervision.
• Maintain precise aircraft control in challenging field conditions including proximity to power lines, structures, and active traffic areas.
• Troubleshoot equipment and sensor issues in the field, diagnosing and resolving problems to maintain mission continuity.
• Operate in full compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations, company safety policies, and all client site requirements.

• Capture complete, high-quality aerial visual, thermal, and LiDAR data of T&D infrastructure, meeting or exceeding project coverage, resolution, and documentation specifications.
• Perform thorough in-field data QA, verifying completeness, image clarity, and sensor data integrity before leaving each site.
• Complete all required flight documentation including mission logs, data capture records, equipment logs, and condition notes.
• Organize, label, and transfer data in accordance with project protocols and confirm successful upload to designated platforms.

• Provide field guidance and technical mentoring to UAS Pilot I / VO and Pilot II team members, helping them develop flight skills, apply safety procedures, and improve data capture quality.
• Support the crew's overall production pace by maintaining high personal output standards and actively contributing to team efficiency.
• Serve as visual observer or support crew logistics when not serving as pilot in command.
• Model professional conduct, safety discipline, and technical precision for junior crew members at all times.

• Perform pre-flight and post-flight equipment inspections at an advanced level, identifying issues that may affect flight safety or sensor performance.
• Manage battery rotation, equipment logs, and maintenance records across the field day.
• Identify recurring equipment issues and communicate findings and recommendations to the Field Survey Supervisor.

• Maintain full compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations, company safety standards, and client site requirements.
• Lead site safety assessments and contribute to pre-job briefings,…