Certified Drone Operator

Job Title: Sr. Drone Operator

Location: Newark DE 19702 can be extended from South Jersey to DC

Duration: 24 months contract (possible conversion)

Pay: $44.00/hr on W2

Job Description: A Senior Drone/Robotics Operator is responsible for the advanced operation and management of drones and robotics systems used for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspection, or research. Responsibilities may include:

Planning and executing complex missions or projects using drones or robotics systems.

Leading a team of operators and technicians in the setup, calibration, and operation of equipment.

Conducting advanced pre-flight or pre-operation checks to ensure equipment is functioning properly.

Operating drones or robotics systems during missions and overseeing the collection and recording of data.

Monitoring equipment performance and making advanced adjustments as necessary.

Analyzing data collected from missions or projects and providing insights or recommendations.

Developing and implementing maintenance and repair procedures for equipment.

Ensuring compliance with safety protocols and regulations for drone or robotics operation.

Keeping up-to-date with advancements in drone and robotics technology and recommending adoption of new technologies.

Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate drones or robotics systems into larger projects or operations.

A Senior Drone/Robotics Operator should have a deep understanding of drone and robotics systems and their operation. They should have strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Excellent communication and teamwork skills are also important for this role. Depending on the specific job requirements, a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a related field may be required, along with relevant training or certification in drone or robotics operation.

The manager is looking for this in specific:

Top 3 Candidate Characteristics

1. Operational Agility & Regulatory Awareness

• Experience flying in controlled or restricted airspace (e.g., DC FRZ).

• Deep understanding of FAA Part 107 regulations and waiver processes.

• Ability to mobilize quickly and adapt to dynamic emergency scenarios.

2. Technical Proficiency & Mission Execution

• Skilled in operating various drone platforms (e.g., DJI Matrice, drone-in-a-box systems).

• Familiarity with payloads such as thermal cameras, zoom optics, and LiDAR.

• Proficient in mission planning software.

• Preferred - Experience conducting both transmission and distribution inspections.

• Accepted - Experience conducting utility inspections.

. Communication & Coordination Skills

• Capable of translating aerial data into actionable insights for engineers and field teams.

• Comfortable working across departments (Transmission, Distribution, Emergency Ops).

• Professional demeanor in high-pressure environments, including coordination with FAA and law enforcement.