UAS Research Operations Lead

Purdue University; West Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Purdue University’s Institute for Digital Forestry in West Lafayette seeks a UAS Research Operations Administrator to guide UAV and BackPack mission planning, support data collection, inventory, processing, and assist experimental design across multiple projects.

You will train staff, ensure FAA Part 107 and NDAA compliance, manage the data catalog, maintain labs and equipment, and coordinate data collection with faculty and students while documenting workflows and results.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, ecology, geography or related field.
• 2 years of operational experience with UAS, including related hardware/software.
• In lieu of degree, an equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered (Associates + 4 years of experience).
• Must show proof of an up to date 14 CFR Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• Must be able to work independently to complete assigned tasks in a timely manner
• Must have strong problem-solving and communication abilities to coordinate with undergraduate pilots and faculty
• Ability to work in a team with good time management and willingness to learn new skills

Responsibilities

• Train undergraduate, graduate, and temp staff assistants in UAS technology
• Ensure all UAS operations comply with FAA Part 107 and NDAA
• Administer data catalog for Institute data repository
• Test and oversee automated data processing pipelines
• Review, analyze, and interpret collected UAS and ground-based data
• Manage dissemination of raw and processed data to research groups
• Document results for presentations and reporting
• Oversee day-to-day operations of data collection missions
• Coordinate data collection with faculty and researchers
• Plan personnel travel and equipment transportation

Skills

UAS operations

Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107)

Independent work

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in natural resources, ecology, geography or related field

Associates + 4 years of experience

Job description

Purdue University’s Institute for Digital Forestry in West Lafayette seeks a UAS Research Operations Administrator to guide UAV and BackPack mission planning, support data collection, inventory, processing, and assist experimental design across multiple projects.

You will train staff, ensure FAA Part 107 and NDAA compliance, manage the data catalog, maintain labs and equipment, and coordinate data collection with faculty and students while documenting workflows and results.