Runner/Visual Observer - Drone Delivery

About the Work

Central New York (or greater Syracuse, New York region) is emerging as the epicenter for innovation in Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), solidifying New York’s status as a premier destination for drone-related businesses and growth. Working alongside SUNY Upstate Medical University, Causey Aviation Unmanned provides aerial logistics for a variety of facilities in the Upstate healthcare system. Prescriptions, medical supplies, and clinical materials are flown directly to the healthcare workers who need them, allowing patients to be seen sooner, treated faster, and receive the care they need without unnecessary delays.

Causey Aviation Unmanned is an FAA-certificated Part 135 air carrier, a certification framework allowing beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations and transportation of hazardous materials (HAZMAT). Our network has completed more than 250,000 commercial deliveries, including thousands of healthcare deliveries.

The Visual Observer / Runner is where most people start. No prior aviation experience is required. You will receive training covering airspace, checklists, and the standards for Part 135 operations. It is often the first step taken to become a Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC): we actively support crew members who want to earn their Part 107 certificate and move up.

The Role

Working under the direct supervision of the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC), you are the RPIC’s eyes on the operation and the program’s hands on the ground. You monitor the airspace for conflicts, confirm the operating area is clear, and support the pilot throughout each mission. You also pick up and deliver orders from internal medical facilities within the network and make the secure handoff to the correct party under strict company procedures. Chain of custody is critical when handling packages containing medication or a clinical samples. You will build a working understanding of 14 CFR Part 107 and Part 135 and help keep every operation compliant with local, state, and federal regulation. Integrity, attention to detail, and a safety-first mindset are our foundational standards.

Pay Rate: Starting at $18–20 per hour

Classification: Part-Time, Hourly — with a path to Full-Time

Reports To: Regional Manager / Lead Remote Pilot in Command

What You Will Do

• Monitor airspace for conflicts, confirm the delivery area is clear, and support the RPIC throughout every mission.
• Pick up and deliver orders from medical facilities within the network, on foot and by vehicle.
• Ensure secure handoff of items to the correct party following strict company procedures.
• Set up and close down the fulfillment center daily.
• Document daily flight activity and maintain accurate flight logs, the operational record that underpins our certificate.
• Execute operations in accordance with written procedures and checklists.
• Provide professional customer service and support to current and future customers.
• Identify and contribute improvements to the efficiency and safety of current operations.
• Represent the program in public outreach and community engagement.
• Perform collateral duties as required.

When flight delivery is interrupted by weather, technical issues, or airspace restrictions, crew members continue to support delivery of orders by personal automobile.

What You Bring

• A collaborative attitude and the reliability a small crew depends on.
• Clear communication and crew resource management.
• Attention to detail and disciplined adherence to procedure.
• Sound problem analysis and decision making in a dynamic outdoor environment.
• A safety management and risk mitigation mindset.
• Strong time management and personal accountability for performance.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license, subject to a driving record history check prior to employment.
• Proficiency with standard Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to deliver clear, concise communications.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, trusting, flexible, and safety-focused environment.
• Ability to meet all medical clearances and background checks associated with the SUNY contract.
• Part 135 crew members are subject to pre-employment and random DOT drug and alcohol screening.
• Must be at least 21 years of age (corporate insurance requirement).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with delivery, logistics, or courier services.
• Willingness to earn an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, a step we encourage and support.

Schedule, Environment, and Physical Requirements

• Schedule: Operations run five days a week, with the potential for extended weekend hours as the network grows. Evening and weekend work may be required.
• Environment: A mix of outdoor field operations, including hot, cold, and inclement weather, and limited office work. You will routinely use computers, radios, mobile devices, tablets, multi-rotor small unmanned aircraft, and remote control units.
• Physical: Regularly operating a vehicle; speaking and hearing clearly; extended periods of sitting, standing, and walking; running when the mission calls for it; kneeling and crouching; using hands to handle and feel; reaching with hands and arms. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Travel: Local to the position location. Personal vehicles are used to complete necessary tasks; mileage is tracked via GPS during the work shift and reimbursed at the current rate published at gsa.gov.

Citizenship

This position requires U.S. citizenship. Causey Aviation Unmanned participates in E-Verify for federal employment verification.

Equal Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All offers of employment made by Causey Aviation Unmanned are subject to the successful completion of a background investigation and a pre-employment drug screening.

Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Application Question(s):

• Are you at Least 21 Years Old? (This is due to corporate insurance requirements)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)
• Part 107 (sUAS Certificate) (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $20