POSITION PURPOSE

This position is located at our Headquarters building in Bismarck, ND and is not a remote position.

Supports aerial and land surveying, mapping, and geospatial data acquisition programs through the use of manned aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems, ground-based survey technologies and geospatial and aviation technologies. Under the direction of a Registered Land Surveyor, ensures the safe and efficient collection and delivery of accurate, reliable, and defensible geospatial data. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Operate onboard data acquisition sensors during manned flight operations. 
• Operate UAV systems and attached data acquisition sensors for tasks such as aerial photography, LiDAR collection, volumetric surveys, surveillance, mapping, and inspections safely and efficiently. 
• Perform pre-flight inspections to ensure that all UAV’s and attached sensors are in good working condition and  complete and log maintenance and repair on  UAV’s and attached sensors. 
• Assists in planning flight paths and navigation, often using complex software systems. 
• Perform and monitor UAV flights with controls, often using video images and specialized software. 
• Analyze and convert field surveying information including linear, angular, horizontal, and vertical units.  Perform calculations to verify and check data for accuracy.  
• Collect, download, process, analyze, maintain, and organize measurement data gathered during manned and unmanned flights to satisfy the inspection, computational, and/or mapping requirements of the project using GIS, surveying, and Computer Automated Drafting (CAD) software platforms. 
• Communicate effectively with team members including pilots, designers, engineers, analysts and surveyors to understand flight and data objectives. 
• Stay updated with the latest UAS technologies and FAA regulations. Maintain a working knowledge of applicable government regulations and ensure full compliance with all state laws governing UAS operations.
• Assist survey technicians and land surveyors.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate degree in GIS, land surveying, engineering technology, or geography.
• FAA Part 107 certification or ability to obtain certification within 6 months of start date.  
• Operation of a motor vehicle under the DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s non-CDL program.
• Valid driver's license.
• Travel up to 75%.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience as a UAV operator or pilot, with a strong understanding of UAS technology.
• A working knowledge of all types of surveys and surveying field notes.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS

This position requires frequent sitting and use of keyboard/computer; standing, walking, stooping/bending, climbing stairs/ladders, kneeling, lifting/carrying up to 50 pounds, reaching, crawling, and pushing/pulling up to 50 pounds, using a hammer and/or other power tools, all in a routine and repetitive manner.  This position will operate equipment in challenging environments such as inside a moving UTV or airplane. This position requires good color vision and hearing, finger dexterity, the ability to perform close work, and the ability to speak. This position is occasionally exposed to dirt/dust, chemicals, extreme heat/cold, vibration, noise, poor ventilation, electrical risks, confined areas, and heights up to 300 feet, requiring the use of safety equipment, including a harness, in accordance with ANSI Z359 standards.

KEY SKILLS

• Familiar with conventional and robotic total station equipment, global navigation satellite system receivers, and data collectors.
• Understanding of UAS technology and different types of surveys.
• Familiar with the use of handheld calculators, survey software platforms, online services, and drafting software platforms.
• Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving and troubleshooting skills with the ability to adapt to changing circumstances quickly. 
• Familiar with cartographical principles and basic understanding of legal descriptions.
• Ability to analyze data/reports, conduct research, implement recommendations, develop plans, accomplish goals, present information to others, and work under pressure.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.