What are the responsibilities and job description for the Drone Pilot position at The Crom Corporation?
Job Purpose
The Drone Pilot supports CROM's Enhanced Level 3 (EL3) Drone Inspection Program by conducting drone-based inspections and collecting high-resolution imagery, thermal data, and related field documentation for water and wastewater infrastructure assets. This position emphasizes safety, data quality, professionalism, and adherence to company procedures and FAA regulations while supporting inspection and asset assessment activities throughout assigned service regions.
No prior professional drone experience is required. Selected candidates must obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and successfully complete CROM's drone flight and inspection training program
Essential Duties Responsibilities
1. Drone Operations & Data Collection
- Conduct drone inspections of water storage tanks and other infrastructure assets.
- Perform pre-flight planning, equipment inspections, and required safety checks.
- Safely operate company-owned drones in accordance with FAA regulations and company procedures.
- Capture high-quality imagery, video, thermal data, and related inspection information in accordance with project requirements and quality standards.
- Utilize field quality assurance software and procedures to verify completeness and accuracy of collected inspection data.
- Upload inspection data, photographs, videos, and supporting documentation to designated company platforms.
2. Documentation & Reporting
- Complete digital field reports and inspection documentation.
- Support defect identification, data validation, and review of 3D models and digital inspection records.
- Maintain organized records of inspection activities, flight operations, and collected data
- Ensure data is documented and submitted in accordance with company standards and project requirements
3. Coordination & Project Support
- Coordinate with Project Managers, Inspectors, Operations personnel, and other team members regarding project schedules, logistics, and field activities.
- Drive company vehicles to and from project locations while maintaining a safe driving record and complying with all company policies.
- Assist with inspection-related field activities and support operational needs as assigned.
- Travel regularly to project locations, including occasional overnight travel
4. Professional Conduct & Development
- Maintain compliance with FAA regulations and company drone operating procedures.
- Participate in company-sponsored drone flight training, inspection training, and continuing development activities.
- Maintain drone equipment, batteries, charging systems, and related field equipment in proper working condition.
- Maintain and enhance the Company's image through personal demeanor and methods of conducting business.
5. Other Duties as Assigned
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
- Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate within a specified timeframe.
- Ability to successfully complete CROM's drone flight and inspection training program.
- Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Basic computer, tablet, and mobile device skills.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience operating drones recreationally or professionally.
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
- Experience performing field inspections, construction work, surveying, photography, or related technical field work.
- Experience using tablets, mobile applications, cloud-based software, or electronic data collection tools.
- Interest in aviation, technology, engineering, infrastructure, or asset inspection services
Working Conditions
This position regularly performs work outdoors at active project sites and infrastructure facilities. Frequent travel is required throughout assigned service regions, including periodic overnight travel. Work may be performed in varying weather conditions and around construction and industrial environments. Extended hours may occasionally be required to meet project schedules and operational demands.