Land Surveyor - Drone Pilot

Project Job Title: Drone Pilot / Surveyor Location: Remote Job Type: Full-Time Reports To: Director of Engineering Travel: Extensive travel to active project sites required Position Summary The Drone Pilot / Surveyor is responsible for performing aerial data collection, mapping, surveying support, and construction documentation across utility-scale solar EPC projects. This position utilizes Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), survey equipment, and specialized mapping software to collect accurate field data used to support engineering, estimating, construction, project controls, and site management. Working within a fast-paced, self-perform EPC construction environment, the Drone Pilot / Surveyor will support projects throughout the construction lifecycle—from existing-condition and preconstruction surveys through earthwork, pile installation, electrical construction, progress tracking, quantity verification, and final project documentation. The ideal candidate combines strong UAS flight capabilities with practical surveying and construction knowledge and understands how accurate, timely field data directly impacts the successful execution of large-scale solar projects. Key Responsibilities Plan and conduct UAS/drone flight operations across large utility-scale solar construction sites in accordance with FAA regulations, company procedures, and project requirementsCollect high-resolution aerial imagery and survey data for mapping, topographic surveys, construction progress, inspections, and project documentationPerform photogrammetry and aerial mapping to produce Ortho mosaics, digital terrain models (DTMs), digital surface models (DSMs), point clouds, and other project deliverablesSupport site surveying activities utilizing GPS/GNSS, RTK, robotic total stations, and other survey equipment as requiredEstablish, verify, and maintain survey control throughout the duration of constructionSupport construction layout and verification activities for roads, grading, drainage, equipment pads, pile locations, electrical infrastructure, substations, and other project componentsPerform existing-condition and preconstruction aerial surveys to document site conditions prior to mobilization and constructionConduct routine progress flights to document construction status and provide project teams with current aerial imageryAssist with earthwork quantity calculations, stockpile measurements, cut/fill analysis, and verification of completed workSupport grading operations by providing accurate surface data and comparing existing conditions against design surfacesProvide survey and aerial data to support pile installation, tracker/racking construction, module installation, underground electrical systems, inverter/transformer locations, and other solar construction activitiesCompare collected field data against IFC drawings, design models, and project specifications to identify potential discrepanciesSupport quality control activities by documenting installed conditions and assisting with verification of completed constructionProcess and manage drone imagery and survey data using applicable photogrammetry, CAD, GIS, and mapping softwareCoordinate with Project Managers, Superintendents, Survey Managers, Engineers, Project Controls, and field personnel to determine survey and aerial data requirementsMaintain accurate flight logs, survey records, field notes, control documentation, and project filesOrganize and maintain aerial imagery and survey data so information is readily accessible to project teamsIdentify potential site, design, or construction issues through review of aerial and survey data and communicate findings to project leadershipMaintain UAS equipment, batteries, survey instruments, and associated technology in proper working conditionPerform pre-flight inspections and evaluate weather, airspace, site conditions, and potential hazards prior to flight operationsEnsure all UAS operations comply with FAA Part 107 requirements and applicable federal, state, local, client, and company requirementsCoordinate flight activities with project safety and field leadership to ensure drone operations do not interfere with cranes, equipment, electrical work, or other construction activitiesSupport multiple projects and travel between active construction sites based on project needs Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, GIS, or related technical discipline preferredCurrent FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate requiredPrevious experience operating drones/UAS for surveying, mapping, engineering, or construction applicationsWorking knowledge of surveying principles, coordinate systems, elevations, benchmarks, and construction layoutExperience collecting and processing aerial imagery for photogrammetry and mapping applicationsExperience with GPS/GNSS and RTK survey equipmentAbility to read and interpret civil plans, grading plans, site layouts, construction drawings, and specificationsUnderstanding of survey control and the importance of horizontal and vertical accuracy in construction applicationsStrong computer and data-management skillsAbility to work independently in large, active construction environments while coordinating effectively with field personnelStrong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracyStrong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skillsAbility to manage multiple assignments and priorities across multiple projectsValid driver's license and acceptable driving recordAbility and willingness to travel extensively based on project requirements Preferred Qualifications Previous experience supporting utility-scale solar, renewable energy, heavy civil, power generation, or large-scale EPC construction projectsExperience working for a self-perform EPC or heavy civil contractorExperience with DJI Enterprise, Trimble, Leica, Topcon, or similar professional UAS and survey equipmentExperience with photogrammetry and mapping platforms such as Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Propeller, Trimble Business Center, or similar applicationsWorking knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil 3D, GIS, or comparable design/mapping softwareExperience creating Ortho mosaics, point clouds, surface models, contour maps, and volumetric reportsExperience performing cut/fill analysis and earthwork quantity verificationExperience with Ground Control Points (GCPs), checkpoints, RTK/PPK workflows, and survey-grade drone mappingFamiliarity with solar site grading, pile installation, tracker systems, access roads, drainage systems, underground electrical collection systems, substations, and related utility-scale solar constructionSurveyor-in-Training (SIT/LSIT) certification or related surveying credentials are a plus but not required Physical & Travel Requirements Ability to travel extensively and potentially remain near project sites for extended periods based on construction schedulesAbility to work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditionsAbility to stand and walk for extended periods while performing field operationsAbility to carry and set up drone, survey, GPS, and related field equipmentAbility to work around heavy construction equipment while maintaining appropriate situational awarenessAbility to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE)Must be able to travel by vehicle and air as required Powered by JazzHR bzQNW2cdHW