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Job description
Project Job Title: Drone Pilot / Surveyor
Location: Remote
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Director of Engineering
Travel: Extensive travel to active project sites required
Position Summary
The Drone Pilot / Surveyor is responsible for performing aerial data collection, mapping, surveying support, and construction documentation across utility-scale solar EPC projects. This position utilizes Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), survey equipment, and specialized mapping software to collect accurate field data used to support engineering, estimating, construction, project controls, and site management.
Working within a fast-paced, self-perform EPC construction environment, the Drone Pilot / Surveyor will support projects throughout the construction lifecycle—from existing-condition and preconstruction surveys through earthwork, pile installation, electrical construction, progress tracking, quantity verification, and final project documentation.
The ideal candidate combines strong UAS flight capabilities with practical surveying and construction knowledge and understands how accurate, timely field data directly impacts the successful execution of large-scale solar projects.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and conduct UAS/drone flight operations across large utility-scale solar construction sites in accordance with FAA regulations, company procedures, and project requirements
Collect high-resolution aerial imagery and survey data for mapping, topographic surveys, construction progress, inspections, and project documentation
Perform photogrammetry and aerial mapping to produce Ortho mosaics, digital terrain models (DTMs), digital surface models (DSMs), point clouds, and other project deliverables
Support site surveying activities utilizing GPS/GNSS, RTK, robotic total stations, and other survey equipment as required
Establish, verify, and maintain survey control throughout the duration of construction
Support construction layout and verification activities for roads, grading, drainage, equipment pads, pile locations, electrical infrastructure, substations, and other project components
Perform existing-condition and preconstruction aerial surveys to document site conditions prior to mobilization and construction
Conduct routine progress flights to document construction status and provide project teams with current aerial imagery
Assist with earthwork quantity calculations, stockpile measurements, cut/fill analysis, and verification of completed work
Support grading operations by providing accurate surface data and comparing existing conditions against design surfaces
Provide survey and aerial data to support pile installation, tracker/racking construction, module installation, underground electrical systems, inverter/transformer locations, and other solar construction activities
Compare collected field data against IFC drawings, design models, and project specifications to identify potential discrepancies
Support quality control activities by documenting installed conditions and assisting with verification of completed construction
Process and manage drone imagery and survey data using applicable photogrammetry, CAD, GIS, and mapping software
Coordinate with Project Managers, Superintendents, Survey Managers, Engineers, Project Controls, and field personnel to determine survey and aerial data requirements
Maintain accurate flight logs, survey records, field notes, control documentation, and project files
Organize and maintain aerial imagery and survey data so information is readily accessible to project teams
Identify potential site, design, or construction issues through review of aerial and survey data and communicate findings to project leadership
Maintain UAS equipment, batteries, survey instruments, and associated technology in proper working condition
Perform pre-flight inspections and evaluate weather, airspace, site conditions, and potential hazards prior to flight operations
Ensure all UAS operations comply with FAA Part 107 requirements and applicable federal, state, local, client, and company requirements
Coordinate flight activities with project safety and field leadership to ensure drone operations do not interfere with cranes, equipment, electrical work, or other construction activities
Support multiple projects and travel between active construction sites based on project needs
Required Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, GIS, or related technical discipline preferred
Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required
Previous experience operating drones/UAS for surveying, mapping, engineering, or construction applications
Working knowledge of surveying principles, coordinate systems, elevations, benchmarks, and construction layout
Experience collecting and processing aerial imagery for photogrammetry and mapping applications
Experience with GPS/GNSS and RTK survey equipment
Ability to read and interpret civil plans, grading plans, site layouts, construction drawings, and specifications
Understanding of survey control and the importance of horizontal and vertical accuracy in construction applications
Strong computer and data-management skills
Ability to work independently in large, active construction environments while coordinating effectively with field personnel
Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy
Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
Ability to manage multiple assignments and priorities across multiple projects
Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record
Ability and willingness to travel extensively based on project requirements
Preferred Qualifications
Previous experience supporting utility-scale solar, renewable energy, heavy civil, power generation, or large-scale EPC construction projects
Experience working for a self-perform EPC or heavy civil contractor
Experience with DJI Enterprise, Trimble, Leica, Topcon, or similar professional UAS and survey equipment
Experience with photogrammetry and mapping platforms such as Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Propeller, Trimble Business Center, or similar applications
Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil 3D, GIS, or comparable design/mapping software
Experience creating Ortho mosaics, point clouds, surface models, contour maps, and volumetric reports
Experience performing cut/fill analysis and earthwork quantity verification
Experience with Ground Control Points (GCPs), checkpoints, RTK/PPK workflows, and survey-grade drone mapping
Familiarity with solar site grading, pile installation, tracker systems, access roads, drainage systems, underground electrical collection systems, substations, and related utility-scale solar construction
Surveyor-in-Training (SIT/LSIT) certification or related surveying credentials are a plus but not required
Physical & Travel Requirements
Ability to travel extensively and potentially remain near project sites for extended periods based on construction schedules
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions
Ability to walk large utility-scale solar sites over rough and uneven terrain
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods while performing field operations
Ability to carry and set up drone, survey, GPS, and related field equipment
Ability to work around heavy construction equipment while maintaining appropriate situational awareness
Ability to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE)
Must be able to travel by vehicle and air as required
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Worksite address
fort lauderdale, FL, 33336, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.