UAS Operations Pilot In Training

AEP Texas Company, Inc.; United States; On-site; USD 42,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power (AEP) in the United States is seeking an entry-level sUAS support role to assist in setting up equipment, planning missions, and organizing inspection data under licensed pilots. The position involves outdoor field work and travel to job sites as needed.

The role emphasizes safety practices, data handling, and coordination with engineers and inspectors to ensure efficient and compliant aerial inspections of utility infrastructure.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or equivalent experience in aviation, engineering, or a related field preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification preferred.
• Basic understanding of sUAS technology and safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Assist with sUAS setup, maintenance, and transport.
• Support pre flight planning and post flight data organization.
• Manage batteries, sensors, and basic troubleshooting.
• Organize and archive aerial imagery and inspection data.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and assist in documentation.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

sUAS technology basics

Valid driver's license

Education

Associate’s degree or equivalent in aviation/engineering/related field

High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification preferred

Tools

Thermal imaging

LiDAR

Photogrammetry

Job description

Job Summary

Supports sUAS operations by preparing equipment, assisting with mission and flight planning, and managing data collection logistics. Works under the guidance of certified sUAS pilots to ensure safe and effective inspections of utility infrastructure. One year projected up or out based on passing the FAA Part 107 exam and moving into the sUAS Operations Pilot role.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with sUAS setup, maintenance, and transport.
• Support pre flight planning and post flight data organization.
• Manage batteries, sensors, and basic troubleshooting.
• Organize and archive aerial imagery and inspection data.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and assist in documentation.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or equivalent experience in aviation, engineering, or a related field preferred.
• OR High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification preferred.
• Basic understanding of sUAS technology and safety practices.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Willingness to work outdoors and travel to field sites.
• Valid driver’s license.

Additional Requirements

• Experience in utility or infrastructure inspection.
• Knowledge of thermal imaging, LiDAR, or photogrammetry.
• Background in engineering, environmental science, aviation, or related technical field.
• Familiarity with utility operations and infrastructure.

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade: SP20-005
Compensation Range: $30.53 - $38.16

Physical Demand Level for this job is:

L – Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or 10 to 12 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 5-6 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for sedentary work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) When it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time, but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg c ontrols; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible.

NOTE: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible.

It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

At American Electric Power, we provide more than electricity to our millions of customers - we energize possibilities. We're redefining the future of energy by reducing our carbon footprint, empowering the communities we serve and building an engaged, talented workforce. All while delivering the reliable service our customers expect. It’s an exciting time in the energy industry. Are you ready to be part of it? We’re looking for team members to help create the grid of the future. Learn more about our commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive work culture that values different experiences.