Commerial Drone Pilot

12-month contract role (August 2026 – August 2027) based in St. Charles, MO, with potential for extension or conversion. Training provided (2–3 months).

About the role

The UAS Specialist joins a central UAS robotics group performing drone inspections across the company. Responsibilities include executing data-capture flights for electric distribution inspections, processing sensed data, and supporting storm damage assessments.

Responsibilities

• Perform UAS data-capture flights for distribution inspections using small UAS drones, meeting deadlines and data delivery schedules for the expected number of distribution poles.
• Operate additional inspection equipment to mission standards, including survey systems, ground-based 3D scanning devices, handheld infrared/corona devices, and other cameras.
• Perform post-flight data processing, including Infrared (IR) data capture procedures, ensuring collected data is stored, secured, and disseminated to the appropriate groups.
• Attend the mandatory daily team meeting (7:00 AM sharp, Monday through Thursday) and drive to field sites (gas reimbursement provided).
• Prepare drones for the following day and perform UAS work management activities, including job tracking and UAV maintenance.
• Support storm damage assessment efforts as needed.
• Read and interpret mobile mapping applications such as ArcGIS Collector and Apple Maps to assist in mission strategy planning.
• Stay current with federal, state, and local UAS regulations and comply with all client policies and Standard Operating Procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in UAS, GIS, Robotics, Engineering, Surveying, or a related technical field.
• 1+ year of relevant experience in utility UAS operations or a related field (recent graduates with a UAS degree will be considered).
• FAA Part 107 commercial drone license.
• Hands-on experience with UAVs and troubleshooting electrical and technical components.
• Good driving record and strong spatial awareness.
• Professionalism in the field, with care not to disturb customers.
• Ability to lift up to 55 lbs. and sit/stand for long periods in all weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience processing drone data, imagery, and LiDAR.
• Videography experience.
• More than one year of professional drone flying experience.
• Broad understanding of computer and IT concepts.
• Expert-level understanding of UAS field operations.

Skills

• Sound decision-making with ambiguous information, aligned with department and organizational goals.
• High level of organization and attention to data quality.
• Creative self-starter able to work independently after training.
• Strong interpersonal skills; works effectively with teams and stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent communication skills — written, verbal, and presentation.

Work Environment

• Location: St. Charles, MO (field-based, with driving to inspection sites; gas reimbursement provided).
• Onsite/Field: Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Fridays emergency-based; overtime available if approved.
• Subject to 24x7x365 emergency call; periodic overnight stays required.
• NERC CIP access required.

Pay

Approximate pay range: $18.00 – $26.00 per hour. Final compensation may vary based on background, knowledge, skills, and location.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance Plans.
• Employee-Owned Profit Sharing (ESOP).
• 401K offered.