UAS Specialist and Project Coordinator

Quanta Aviation provides a central organization to manage, coordinate and serve all Quanta Services’ aviation operations. The group also provides oversight and standardized work procedures for all internal and external helicopter operations — to ensure the highest level of safety and compliance.

The UAS Specialist and Project Coordinator at Quanta Aviation Services (QAS) will play a critical role in our operations by managing and executing drone missions across various platforms and sensor payloads. This individual will be responsible for mission planning, data collection, processing, and analysis, as well as coordinating with independent contractors, stakeholders, and clients. The ideal candidate is a jack-of-all-trades with a strong technical background in UAS operations, data analysis, and project management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drone Operations:
  • Operate a variety of drones, including American-made Non-Chinese platforms including but not limited to Inspired Flight, Skydio, Censys, and Freefly Systems.
  • Perform manual flights for inspections near critical infrastructure with precision and safety.
  • Plan and execute waypoint missions using advanced flight planning software.
  • Ensure compliance with all FAA regulations and company safety protocols.
  • SME assistance with bid submittals and RFP responses.
  • Process and prepare reports and other deliverables to the end client.
  • Operate UAS for R&D purposes, as well as rope pulling, hot stick, conductor cutting, confined spaces, and other highly technical flying.
• Sensor and Data Management:
  • Utilize various drone payload sensors, including LiDAR, photogrammetry cameras, thermal imaging, and more.
  • Configure and calibrate sensors to capture high-quality data suitable for analysis.
  • Collect, process, and analyze data to generate detailed reports, photogrammetry maps, LiDAR point clouds, and other data/deliverables.
  • Use software tools such as Pix4D, Drone Deploy, or similar for data processing and map generation.
  • Interpret data to provide actionable insights and recommendations to clients.
• Project Coordination:
  • Coordinate logistics planning for drone missions, including site assessments, permissions, and access.
  • Work with, coordinate and support independent contractors, ensuring they meet project requirements and standards.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders and clients to clearly define project scopes, objectives, and deliverables.
  • Monitor project progress and provide regular updates to all parties involved.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during project execution.
  • Prepare and deliver professional presentations on in-field findings, operational updates, and reports to clients and stakeholders.
  • Address client inquiries and concerns promptly and effectively.
• Equipment Maintenance and Compliance:
  • Maintain and troubleshoot drone hardware and software to ensure optimal performance.
  • Keep accurate records of flight logs, maintenance activities, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Qualifications:

 

• Education and Certification:
  • Degree in Aeronautics, Engineering, Geospatial Science, or a related field is valued.
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is required.
  • Additional certifications (thermography, UVography, ASPRS are highly valued).
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in drone operations across various platforms with preference for utility experience.
  • Minimum of 100 hours flight time operating near critical infrastructure.
  • Demonstrated experience with American-made or non-Chinese drones.
  • Proficient in operating different drone payloads, including LiDAR and photogrammetry sensors.
  • Expert in waypoint mission planning as well as manual flight for close inspections.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in data processing software such as Pix4D, DroneDeploy, YellowScan, LiDAR360, or equivalent.
  • Strong understanding of photogrammetry, LiDAR mapping, and point cloud generation.
  • Ability to generate comprehensive reports and visualizations from collected data.
  • Familiarity with critical infrastructure inspection protocols and safety practices.
  • Experience operating UAS for physical operations (i.e. rope pulling operations) is a plus.
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Soft Skills:
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Professional demeanor with the ability to interact confidently with clients and stakeholders.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to challenges.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Additional Requirements:
  • Valid driver's license and the ability to travel to various project sites as needed.
  • Legal authorization to work in the United States.
  • Flexibility to work extended hours or weekends when necessary.

 

If you’re interested in joining Quanta’s rapidly growing UAS team in the critical infrastructure and utility space, apply at the link above or send your resume and cover letter to UAS@QuantaAviation.com

Salary + Benefits

The anticipated compensation for this position is - depending on experience and qualifications.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.