Drone Pilot

Lorien; Plainfield (IN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Duke Energy Aviation Services is seeking an experienced FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot to support VLOS and BVLOS UAS operations under approved waivers and CONOPS. The RPIC is responsible for flight safety, regulatory compliance, mission planning, and coordination with airspace authorities and clients.

This role emphasizes pre/post-flight checks, data quality, and seamless communication across operations teams, with shifts aligning to field needs and storm missions as required.

Qualifications

• Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• 6 months experience serving as RPIC or crew member in complex UAS operations.
• Strong understanding of airspace, weather, emergency procedures, and risk mitigation.
• Ability to pass background checks and drug/alcohol testing.

Responsibilities

• Operate UAS in accordance with FAA Part 107, company SOPs and waivers.
• Interpret NOTAMs, weather data, and airspace information.
• Maintain VLOS unless BVLOS waiver is approved.
• Conduct BVLOS operations per CONOPS, limitations, and mitigations.
• Perform pre-, in-, and post-flight inspections and debriefs.
• Communicate with manned/unmanned pilots, airspace authorities, and teams.
• Support mission planning and execution with data capture expectations.
• Complete flight logs, maintenance records, and incident reports.
• Troubleshoot UAS hardware/software as needed.
• Ensure safety and regulatory compliance throughout operations.

Skills

FAA Part 107 remote pilot knowledge

RPIC responsibilities

Airspace and weather understanding

Regulatory compliance and CONOPS

Background checks & drug testing

Job description

Duke Energy Aviation Services is seeking an experienced FAA Part 107 Certified Remote Pilot to support visual line of sight (VLOS) and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) unmanned aircraft operations conducted under FAA-approved waivers, authorizations, or exemptions. The Remote Pilot serves as the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) and holds responsibility for flight safety, regulatory compliance, mission planning, and strict observance of approved Concepts of Operations (CONOPS).

Flight Operations (VLOS & BVLOS)

Duke Energy Aviation Services is seeking an experienced FAA Part 107 Certified Remote Pilot to support visual line of sight (VLOS) and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) unmanned aircraft operations conducted under FAA-approved waivers, authorizations, or exemptions. The Remote Pilot serves as the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) and holds responsibility for flight safety, regulatory compliance, mission planning, and strict observance of approved Concepts of Operations (CONOPS).

Flight Operations (VLOS & BVLOS)

• Operate unmanned aircraft systems in compliance with FAA Part 107, company SOPs, and approved FAA waivers or authorizations
• Ability to integrate and interpret airspace data (NOTAMs, weather, etc.)
• Maintain visual line of sight (VLOS) operations unless operating under an approved BVLOS waiver
• Conduct BVLOS operations in accordance with approved CONOPS, limitations, and mitigations
• Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections
• Communicate clearly with other manned and unmanned pilots, airspace authorities, and operational teams
• Participate in operational readiness reviews and post-mission debriefs

Mission Planning & Execution

• Coordinate and carry out missions involving photography, videography, mapping, inspection, or data collection to guarantee high-quality data acquisition.
• Coordinate with visual observers, clients, and site personnel
• Ensure safe launch, recovery, and contingency procedures
• Maintain clear communication throughout operations

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all FAA, state, and local regulations
• Complete flight logs, maintenance records, and incident reports.
• Promptly report safety concerns and incidents.

Equipment & Systems

• Ensure unmanned aerial system platforms, ground control stations, and payloads are operated and kept in optimal condition.
• Perform pre- and post-flight equipment inspections
• Assist with troubleshooting UAS hardware and software issues

Required Qualifications

• Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• 6 months experience serving as RPIC or crew member in complex UAS operations
• Strong understanding of airspace, weather, emergency procedures, and risk mitigation
• Ability to interpret and operate within approved CONOPS and waiver limitations
• Ability to pass background checks and drug/alcohol testing

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous BVLOS operational experience under FAA waivers or exemptions
• Familiarity with Safety Management Systems (SMS)
• Experience with infrastructure inspection, linear assets, surveying, or delivery operations
• Knowledge of UAS data workflows and operational reporting

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry UAS equipment (up to ~50 lbs)
• Ability to work outdoors in varied environmental conditions
• Willingness to travel to remote or industrial locations

Work Schedule

• Rotating 8-hour shifts OR Mon-Thurs 10-hour shifts
• Shifts could include days, evenings, nights
• Overtime and on-call support may be required during storm operations or special mission request
  

Impellam Group and its brands are equal-opportunity employers committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other factor determined to be unlawful under applicable law. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application, interview process, pre-employment activity, and the performance of crucial job functions.