Description
Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to collect remote sensing data for natural resource management, urban planning, infrastructure, or public safety. Plan and execute missions, configure sensors, ensure regulatory and safety compliance, and deliver usable datasets; may assist in testing new payloads or collection techniques.
- • Plan flight missions and flight paths to meet data requirements and site constraints.
- • Conduct preflight site surveys, risk assessments, and checklists.
- • Obtain airspace authorizations and ensure compliance with FAA Part 107 and local rules.
- • Coordinate mission goals, equipment needs, and methods with clients and teammates.
- • Set up and maintain UAS, sensors, ground stations, and batteries.
- • Install, calibrate, and test payloads, firmware, and control software.
- • Execute safe UAS flights, maintaining VLOS and crew resource management.
- • Monitor weather, airspace, and site conditions and adjust operations as needed.
- • Capture imagery and sensor data (RGB, thermal, multispectral, LiDAR) per specifications.
- • Monitor data quality in real time and adjust flight parameters or equipment as needed.
- • Collect supporting field data such as GCPs, checkpoints, and metadata.
- • Perform basic processing, such as geotagging, orthomosaics, and point cloud generation, or coordinate advanced processing.
- • Compile, format, and transfer datasets to clients or analysts.
- • Organize and maintain flight logs, maintenance logs, and geospatial data with associated documentation.
- • Prepare flight reports, incident reports, and deliverables summarizing collection outcomes.
- • Maintain and track batteries, spares, and maintenance schedules.
- • Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, or communication issues in the field.
- • Implement capture techniques to minimize artifacts like motion blur, glare, or occlusions.
- • Evaluate and recommend new UAS platforms, sensors, and software.
- • Participate in fieldwork across varied terrain and environmental conditions.
- • Train crew members or stakeholders in UAS operations, safety, and data handling.
- • Support environmental, infrastructure, agricultural, or public safety missions with targeted data collection.
- • Follow emergency procedures and document anomalies or incidents.
- • Stay current with UAS regulations, best practices, and remote sensing advancements.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
