Unmanned Aerial System Pilot

At Trident Industries, we combine boots-on-the-ground expertise with advanced aerial technology to support infrastructure and energy projects across the Midwest. As demand increases for high resolution data capture including photogrammetry and LiDAR mapping, thermal inspections, video and photo documentation of transmission corridors, we are seeking a highly skilled and reliable UAS Pilot to join our field operations team.

This position is not limited to flying drones. It requires a professional who can manage the full data acquisition lifecycle. From planning and conducting safe and compliant UAS missions to post-processing raw data into meaningful geospatial and visual products, this role is central to helping our teams and clients make informed decisions.

If you are a certified remote pilot with a passion for geospatial data and commitment to accuracy, this is your opportunity to contribute to high-impact projects across the utility and construction sectors.

Why Trident Industries?

Purpose-Driven Work
Your aerial missions directly support engineering, inspection, and construction teams by delivering aerial and vehicle mounted data capture.

Technical Growth
Whether you're experienced with photogrammetry or looking to deepen your LiDAR post-processing skills, we provide training, collaboration, and growth opportunities.

Professional Culture
We prioritize safety, quality, and communication at every step, from flight planning to final data delivery.

Collaborative Environment
You will work closely with our GIS team, project managers, and inspection crews to ensure accurate, timely, and useful deliverables.

Comprehensive Benefits
We offer health insurance, a 401(k) match, paid time off, and ongoing training to support your professional success.

Responsibilities:

• Review project scope and flight parameters for upcoming jobs.
• Conduct pre-flight planning, including weather analysis, airspace checks, and site review.
• Execute safe and compliant UAS missions for use cases including mapping, aerial photogrammetry, LiDAR collection, thermal inspections, and video capture.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections of drones and payload equipment.
• Process photogrammetry data into accurate orthomosaics, digital elevation and surface models.
• Convert LiDAR point cloud data into classified surfaces, elevation models, and vegetation analysis using software like PC Master Pro or similar.
• Generate thermal maps and temperature overlays by calibrating radiometric data for detecting hotspots, equipment performance, or structural deficiencies.
• Edit and compile high-resolution aerial video footage for client documentation and internal presentations.
• Ensure deliverables meet quality and accuracy standards through control point verification, coordinate system checks, and precision measurements.
• Collaborate with GIS specialists to integrate processed data into dashboards, mapping platforms, or asset management systems.
• Label, structure, and upload all processed data, maps, and media to internal databases or client platforms.
• Communicate deliverable status with project managers and field teams, providing any necessary supporting documentation.
• Follow naming conventions and metadata requirements for seamless downstream use.
• Perform firmware updates, calibrations, and preventive maintenance on drones, payloads, and accessories.
• Maintain inventory of batteries, SD cards, and backup equipment to ensure deployment readiness.
• Report any technical issues and coordinate repairs when necessary.
• Submit accurate daily timesheets and mission notes.
• Participate in team briefings, safety meetings, and project reviews.
• Maintain a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• Stay adaptable to shifting weather conditions, last-minute site changes, and dynamic field environments.
• Operate company trucks and utility task vehicles (UTVs) in support of field and flight operations. 
• Demonstrate familiarity with aerial surveying systems, mapping technologies, LiDAR platforms, and geospatial data collection equipment. 
• Perform field setup and verification of ground control points (GCPs) to improve mapping accuracy and survey consistency. 
• Operate RTK-enabled drone systems and maintain supporting field hardware during active project operations.

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required
• 1 or more years of experience in UAS data acquisition and post-processing for construction, energy, environmental, or utility projects
• Strong experience with photogrammetry, LiDAR processing, and thermal image interpretation
• Proficiency with software such as ArcGIS Site Scan, Adobe Premiere, UGCS, Google Earth Pro or similar.
• Ability to process raw flight data into client-ready deliverables including orthomosaics, 3D models, point clouds, DEMs, thermal overlays, and video compilations
• Strong attention to detail, data organization, and file management
• Willingness to travel and work in various field conditions

Ready to Deliver Insight from Above?

At Trident Industries, we are looking for UAS professionals who know how to fly, process, and produce actionable results. Your ability to transform aerial data into meaningful geospatial and visual products will help drive smarter infrastructure decisions and elevate project performance.

Apply today and become a vital part of our high-performance field operations team.