Field Engineer

Job Title: Part-Time Field Engineer 

Location: Field-Based, Bay Area, California  

Our Purpose 

Stop/Fires is a wildfire and disaster intelligence platform delivered as a managed service. It combines world class technology and deep human expertise to Map, Monitor and Mitigate wildfire and other disaster-related risks. At Stop/Fires, we deliver managed services and technology — designed with fire agencies — to detect risk earlier, respond faster, and reduce the impact of wildfires and disasters on communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems. 

The Opportunity 

The Part-Time Field Engineer supports unmanned aerial system (UAS) missions for wildfire prevention, utility inspection, and risk reduction. This role serves as a flexible operational resource, providing shift coverage, surge capacity, and rapid response support across field operations. 

Part-Time Engineers are fully trained field operators who integrate into two-person crews and mobile command units as needed. This role is ideal for experienced fire service professionals seeking flexible, mission-driven work while maintaining operational proficiency. 

Important note: This is not a traditional “drone pilot” role. We are hiring field decision makers with flight capabilities. The mission-set includes working in two-person crews assigned to mobile command units and are responsible for safe flight operations, data collection, and real-time reporting. 

This role reports to the VP of Field Engineering and sits in the Field Operations Department. 

Role in Staffing Model 

Part-Time Field Engineers are a critical component of the 24/7 staffing structure and are responsible for: 

• Backfilling scheduled and unscheduled shift vacancies 
• Supporting recall and overtime operations 
• Providing surge staffing during elevated fire risk or operational demand 
• Maintaining on-call readiness for rapid deployment 

Typical engagement includes no more than 3 shifts per week, plus participation in a rotating on-call schedule. 

Key Responsibilities  

Flight Operations 

• Act as Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) or crew operator during UAS missions 
• Conduct pre-flight planning, risk assessments, and airspace coordination on short notice 
• Execute mapping and inspection flights in accordance with FAA and company protocols 
• Make go/no-go decisions based on weather, airspace, and system status 
• Be available to assist in the event of a wildfire on short notice 
• Maintain readiness for rapid deployment, including wildfire response 

Data Collection & Inspection 

• Capture high-resolution imagery and sensor data (thermal, LiDAR, EO) 
• Perform targeted inspections of utility infrastructure (“eye-on-pole”) 
• Identify and document potential hazards including vegetation encroachment, line damage, and thermal anomalies 
• Submit real-time or near-real-time reports indicating “all-clear” or required follow-up 

Field Operations 

• Integrate into two-person crews operating from mobile command units 
• Deploy and operate from truck-based mobile command units 
• Assist with setup, calibration, and removal of UAS equipment and sensors 
• Maintain batteries, payloads, and supporting systems 
• Support connectivity systems including ground control stations and satellite links 
• Learn and be able to operate provided radios and comm devices 

On-Call & Recall Responsibilities 

• Participate in a rotating on-call schedule (approximately 4–6 on-call assignments per month) 
• Be available for short-notice deployment when assigned on-call 
• Respond to callouts for shift coverage, wildfire support, or time-sensitive missions 

Safety & Compliance 

• Operate in accordance with FAA Part 107 (and Part 108 in the future) and applicable BVLOS authorizations 
• Follow NFPA 2400 standards for UAS operations in public safety environments 
• Complete required safety documentation and mission logs 
• Always ensure adherence to company and customer safety protocols 

Post-Mission Activities 

• Validate data quality and completeness 
• Complete required reporting and documentation 
• Perform equipment inspections and maintenance logging 
• Facilitate with Stop/Fires colleagues, partners and vendors as required 

QUALIFICATIONS 

Required 

• Can apply operational judgment in field environments while operating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) 
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or ability to obtain prior to deployment) 
• Ability to work in outdoor and field environments, including remote locations 
• Strong situational awareness and decision-making skills 
• Ability to work effectively in a two-person crew 
• Class C Driver’s License 
• High School Diploma 
• Availability for on-call assignments and short-notice deployment 

Preferred 

• 5 years of experience in fire service (wildland or structural) 
• National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) S-190/S-130 
• Experience with Incident Command System (ICS) 
• Background in fuels management, fire behavior, or utility coordination 
• Prior drone/UAS experience 
• Familiarity with GIS or mapping platforms 

PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Ability to lift and carry equipment up to 50lbs 
• Ability to stand, walk, and operate in uneven terrain for extended periods 
• Visual acuity sufficient for safe equipment operation and situational awareness  
• Manual dexterity sufficient to operate keyboards, controllers, or other handheld devices 
• Ability to work extended hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays during active fire seasons or emergency operations. 
• Capacity to work in a high-stress, time-sensitive environment with rapidly changing priorities. 
• Occasional travel to field operations centers, incident command posts, and partner agency facilities may be required. 

Additional Information 

• Two-person crews assigned per mobile unit
- shared interchangeable roles 
• Operations may include day and night missions
(up to 12hr shifts) 
• Compensated training provided for company-specific systems and procedures 

Employment Compensation & Benefits 

Compensation: $60 per hour for first 8 hours, $90 per hour for hour 9-12 at 1.5x overtime 

• Professional development and certification reimbursement 

Work Schedule & Commitment 

• Minimum to maintain active: 1 shift per month  
• Workload capped at 3 shifts a week 
• Additional shifts available based on operational demand 
• Participation in rotating on-call schedule required 
• Shifts are 8 hours or 12 hours: 
• Day: 7:00 – 19:00  
• Night: 19:00 – 7:00 

Employment Terms 

Conditional Offer: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment requirements, which may include background checks, verification of certifications, and any required training or onboarding criteria. 

Probationary Period: All new hires are subject to a 90-day probationary period. During this time, performance, operational competency, safety compliance, and team integration will be evaluated to determine continued employment. 

Employment Classification: This position is structured as a non-exempt part-time employee. 

____________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Equal Opportunity Employer 

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.