Senior Aviation Project Director (UAS)

About the role

Leads the development, evaluation, and delivery of UAS projects, particularly those with/for the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and/or at FDOT's SunTrax facility. Applies expert knowledge of FAA Advisory Circulars (ACs), airspace, updates to Airport Master Records, regulatory information, UAS-related applications and approvals, and other guidance. Analyzes and interprets aviation data related to aircraft operations. Reviews existing aviation policy and provides recommendations for improvement on topics such as UAS, infrastructure planning and permitting, or funding. Serves as staff augmentation for interested clients. Attends and make presentations at conferences and other events on topics such as UAS. Performs other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Leads business development and marketing capabilities regarding UAS.
• Make recommendations, based on analysis and expert knowledge, to clients regarding UAS Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), technology, vendors, etc.
• Prepares and reviews high-quality technical reports, planning studies, exhibits, and client deliverables, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and consistency with project objectives.
• Supports client-facing communications by drafting or reviewing proposed media statements, briefing materials, and speech or presentation talking points on UAS topics for delivery by senior leadership, collaborating with communications professionals to ensure messaging is accurate, accessible, and aligned with broader outreach strategies.
• Reviews proposals from UAS companies and prepares a recommendation for client consideration.
• Develops and reviews Letters of Intent (LOI), Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and other related documents to enable collaborations and partnerships between clients and vendors (including UAS OEMs).
• Collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams, project managers, and clients, working both independently and collectively to meet schedules and deliverables.
• Mentors junior staff by sharing technical knowledge, reviewing work products, and supporting professional development.
• Aid with the development of workforce development curriculum for UAS.
• Stays current with evolving UAS concepts, companies, FAA policies and guidance, and best industry practices, proactively identifying opportunities to enhance project approaches and outcomes.
• Upholds AtkinsRéalis' ethics, quality standards, and professional conduct in all aspects of project delivery and client engagement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Planning, or related field (Master's preferred).
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
• 15+ years of experience in aviation and project management.
• Proven track record managing multi-million-dollar infrastructure projects.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and client engagement skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge of UAS: state of the industry, industry trends, industry players, etc.
• Demonstrated familiarity with emerging UAS facilities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of FAA Advisory Circulars (ACs), guidance, and regulatory standards relating to airport/heliport/vertiport design.
• Demonstrated knowledge of aviation infrastructure permitting processes.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to produce clear, well-organized technical writing and professional communications for both internal teams and clients.
• Demonstrated interdisciplinary experience.
• Demonstrated experience working with working groups, committees, and advisory groups.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and, ideally, CAD-based software to support analysis, documentation, and planning deliverables.
• Ability to research, interpret, and synthesize airport and aviation data to support planning studies and informed decision-making.

Pay

Expected compensation range is between $141,400-$200,000 annually depending on skills, experience, and geographical location.

Benefits

Depending on your employment status, AtkinsRéalis benefits may include medical, dental, vision, company-paid life and short- and long-term disability benefits, employer-matched 401(k) with 100% vesting, employee stock purchase plan, Paid Time Off, leaves of absences options, flexible work options, recognition and employee satisfaction programs, employee assistance program, and voluntary benefits.