Remote Sensing Technician

Westwood Professional Services; Overland Park (KS); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Westwood Professional Services is seeking a Technician - Aerial Mapping & PLS-CADD Classification to classify aerial LiDAR and imagery for electric utility corridors and to support PLS-CADD engineering deliverables.

The role involves data classification, feature coding, and quality control, working with Production Leads, Project Managers, and PLS-CADD designers to meet technical specs and schedules. Westwood is hiring multiple Technicians for this role.

Qualifications

• 1–3+ years in electric utility aerial mapping, LiDAR classification, or PLS-CADD modeling.
• Working knowledge of LiDAR classification and feature/attribute coding for utility infrastructure.
• Familiarity with PLS-CADD software.

Responsibilities

• Classify LiDAR point clouds for utility corridors using MicroStation and TerraScan.
• Code features per client specs and standard PLS-CADD codes.
• Perform quality control to ensure accuracy and consistency of outputs.
• Follow SOPs and project-specific processing requirements.
• Troubleshoot data, software, and workflows.

Skills

LiDAR classification

PLS-CADD modeling

TerraSolid

Global Mapper

MicroStation

Education

Associate's degree (geomatics, surveying, GIS, or related)

Tools

TerraSolid

TerraScan

PLS-CADD

MicroStation

Global Mapper

Job description

Job Type: Full-time

Description

The Technician - Aerial Mapping & PLS-CADD Classification is responsible for classifying aerial LiDAR and imagery point clouds and coding features for electric utility transmission and distribution corridors to support PLS-CADD engineering deliverables. This role performs data classification, feature coding, and quality control in support of utility mapping projects. The Technician works under the direction of the Production Lead and collaborates with Project Managers and PLS-CADD designers to meet technical specifications, schedules, and quality standards. Westwood is hiring multiple Technicians into this role.

Responsibilities

• Classify LiDAR point clouds (ground, vegetation, conductors, structures, buildings, etc.) for electric utility transmission and distribution corridors utilizing MicroStation and TerraScan.
• Perform feature and attribute coding per utility client specifications and standard PLS-CADD feature codes.
• Perform quality control checks to ensure accuracy, completeness, and consistency of all outputs.
• Follow internal SOPs, industry best practices, and project-specific processing requirements.
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to datasets, software, and processing workflows.
• Communicate progress, issues, and risks to the Production Lead and Project Lead in a timely manner.
• Maintain organized project files and support data management and archiving practices.
• Participate in training on classification standards, TerraSolid software updates, and utility mapping specifications.

Skills and Qualifications

• 1-3+ years of experience in electric utility aerial mapping, LiDAR classification, or PLS-CADD modeling, or an Associate's degree in a related field with relevant coursework or internship experience.
• Working knowledge of LiDAR point cloud classification and feature/attribute coding for utility infrastructure.
• Familiarity with PLS-CADD software.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple deliverables simultaneously.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in geomatics, surveying, GIS, or a related field preferred.
• Proficiency in TerraSolid, Global Mapper, or similar classification software alongside PLS-CADD preferred.
• ASPRS Certification or enrollment in a certification track preferred.
• Experience supporting manned and UAS aerial acquisition workflows for utility corridors preferred.

Note: This job description is a general outline of the key responsibilities and qualifications of a Technician - Aerial Mapping & PLS-CADD Classification. It is not exhaustive and may be subject to change based on the specific needs of the organization and projects.