Drone GIS Team Lead — UAS Data Specialist

County of Orange; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

County of Orange is seeking an experienced Drone Team Supervisor (GIS Supervisor) to lead cutting-edge UAS operations across county infrastructure, environmental, and public safety projects. You will manage a team of GIS Analysts and Technicians, ensure data integrity, and drive interoperability with existing GIS systems.

The role emphasizes leadership, drone technology expertise, and safe, compliant operations to support informed decision-making for residents and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Five years of professional drone experience operating Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is highly desirable but not required.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs or more to transport UAVs and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Plans, schedules, and coordinates UAS flight operations countywide.
• Develops SOPs and best practices for safe, compliant UAS operations.
• Supervises Drone Team staff and monitors project progress from planning through delivery.
• Oversees UAS platforms, sensors, and equipment lifecycle; evaluates new tech.
• Performs QA/QC of UAS-derived geospatial products to ensure accuracy.

Skills

Drone operations

Leadership

Geospatial data

UAS data processing

GIS knowledge

Tools

ArcGIS Pro

ArcGIS Online

Python

JavaScript

LiDAR

Job description

County of Orange is seeking an experienced Drone Team Supervisor (GIS Supervisor) to lead cutting-edge UAS operations across county infrastructure, environmental, and public safety projects. You will manage a team of GIS Analysts and Technicians, ensure data integrity, and drive interoperability with existing GIS systems.

The role emphasizes leadership, drone technology expertise, and safe, compliant operations to support informed decision-making for residents and stakeholders.