Field Technician / Research Technician in Drone Pilot (Commercial Operations) for Data Collection

San Antonio Spurs; United States; On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

San Antonio Spurs is seeking a skilled Drone Pilot to support advanced aerial operations, including mapping and surveying. The ideal candidate will have experience with DJI M350 or M400 drones and a solid background in robotics or related fields.

This role involves operating UAV missions, ensuring safety compliance, and maintaining drone systems. Candidates must possess a valid Commercial Drone Pilot License and a diploma in a relevant technical field.

Qualifications

• Valid Commercial Drone Pilot License – Part 107 GACA required.
• Proven experience with DJI M350 or M400 drone operations.
• Experience in aerial mapping and surveying workflows.

Responsibilities

• Operate and manage UAV missions using DJI M350 / M400 drones.
• Conduct aerial mapping, surveying, and data collection tasks.
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations and safety standards.

Skills

Attention to detail and operational precision

Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities

Ability to work independently and in field conditions

Excellent communication and reporting skills

Education

Minimum Diploma in Robotics/Mechatronics/Engineering or related field

Tools

DJI M350 or M400 drones

UAV systems and sensors

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Drone Pilot to support advanced aerial operations, including mapping, surveying, and data acquisition. The ideal candidate will have hands‑on experience operating enterprise‑grade UAV platforms, particularly DJI M350 or M400 systems, and a background in robotics or related technical fields.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and manage UAV missions using DJI M350 / M400 drones
• Conduct aerial mapping, surveying, and data collection tasks
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations and safety standards
• Perform pre‑flight checks, mission planning, and post‑flight reporting
• Maintain and troubleshoot drone systems and payloads
• Collaborate with researchers and project teams for task execution
• Process the collected aerial data when required

Qualifications

• Valid Commercial Drone Pilot License – Part 107 GACA (required!)
• Minimum Diploma in Robotics/ Mechatronics/ Engineering, or related field
• Proven experience with DJI M350 or M400 drone operations
• Experience in aerial mapping and surveying workflows
• Strong understanding of UAV systems, sensors, and flight planning software
• Basic maintenance and repair skills for UAV systems
• Fluent in English (written and spoken, required!)

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS tools
• Experience with data processing software
• Arabic language proficiency (plus!)

Key Skills

• Attention to detail and operational precision
• Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting abilities
• Ability to work independently and in field conditions
• Excellent communication and reporting skills