Field Drone Operations Expert

SKIPPER NDT CORP; Texas; On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Skipper NDT Corp seeks a Field Operations Specialist to lead field deployments of advanced magnetic data acquisition systems. You will work closely with clients, coordinate drone and land-based data collection, and ensure adherence to QHSE standards across North America.

The role requires hands-on technical expertise, strong communication, and the ability to travel up to 75% within the assigned territory, including extended field assignments.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of progressive field operations experience in land surveying, pipeline surveys, right-of-way surveys, or drone-based inspection techniques in oil & gas, energy, or utility industries.

Responsibilities

• Deploy and operate magnetic data acquisition tech (drone and land-based) in diverse field environments.
• Validate equipment, optimize vector selection, and manage field mobilization/demobilization per project specs.
• Serve as primary client contact during field execution and maintain professional relationships.

Skills

Field operations

GIS data acquisition

Drone operations

Client communication

Problem solving

Education

Associate’s degree in Applied Sciences

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Tools

GIS software

UAV flight planning software

QHSE compliance tools

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Field Operations Specialist

If you have experience in field GIS surveys, pipeline surveys, pipeline cathodic protection, close interval surveys, right of way surveys, ILI tool tracking, or pipeline and industrial facility inspections utilizing drone deployments, this role may be your next career move! As part of our continued expansion in North America, Skipper NDT is looking for a qualified Field Operations Specialist to join our Team in Houston, Tx.

This role will ensure field deployment excellence for Skipper NDT's advanced magnetic data acquisition systems while building partnerships through comprehensive training and technical support. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with client relationship management to expand our market presence and ensure operational success across North America.

Key Responsibilities

Field Operations & Data Acquisition

• Deploy and operate Skipper NDT's magnetic data acquisition technologies (drone and land-based) in diverse field environments, ensuring successful data collection and adherence to operational procedures and project specifications
• Execute comprehensive field operations including equipment validation, vector selection optimization, current injection, establishing GIS base stations and GIS based control point acquisition, vector deployment (drone and land-based), QHSE compliance, real-time data quality assessment, and efficient mobilization/demobilization activities
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during field execution, maintaining professional relationships and addressing and resolving technical inquiries
• Effectively liaise with key Skipper NDT and client personnel throughout project lifecycle to ensure operational excellence and safe execution to deliver an outstanding customer experience.
• Maintain detailed documentation of field operations, technical issues, and recommended improvements

Partner Support

• Provide ongoing mentorship and technical support to certified partners, ensuring consistent service delivery across all deployments
• Provide field support to certified partners as required

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of progressive field operations experience in performing land surveying, pipeline surveys, right-of-way surveys, or drone based inspection techniques for the oil & gas, energy, or utility industries

Preferred:

• Associate’s degree in Applied Sciences or related technical discipline.
• Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (drone license) with clean operating record

Technical Expertise

• Working knowledge of GIS systems, base stations, and GIS data acquisition principles.
• Comprehensive knowledge of UAV systems, flight planning, and deployment
• Strong mechanical aptitude with experience in equipment operation and maintenance
• Proficiency in data acquisition, analysis, and validation techniques
• Understanding of QHSE standards and regulatory compliance requirements in the oil & gas, energy, and utility industries

Professional Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication abilities
• Proven ability to work independently in challenging field environments while maintaining safety and quality standards
• Strong problem-solving skills with ability to make critical decisions under pressure
• Strong organizational skills, capable of managing multiple, complex tasks simultaneously.
• Must be process and procedure focused with dedication to documentation, quality and safety.
• Customer service oriented.

Travel Requirements

• Ability to travel up to 75% within assigned territory, including extended field assignments
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record
• Valid passport or ability to acquire
• Flexibility to work irregular hours based on project demands and client schedules

Physical Requirements

· Capable of lifting 50 lbs. or greater

· Walking large distances over varying terrains

· Working outside for extended periods of time and potentially in adverse weather conditions

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