Posted in

UTT Drone Operator

UTT Drone Operator

CompanyApave
LocationHouston, TX, USA
Salary$Not Provided – $Not Provided
TypeFull-Time
Degrees
Experience LevelMid Level

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or equivalent is required
  • Minimum of three (3) years industry related and drone operator experience with verifiable flight time is required
  • Current FAA Part 107 certification is required
  • Experience with Elios 2 & 3 and DJI M300 RTK platforms is required
  • Proficiency in the operation of drones including flight path planning, navigation and troubleshooting is required
  • Must have a strong understanding of aviation regulations and aerial photography/videography
  • Thorough understanding of safety regulations and procedures for both drone operations and ultrasonic testing
  • Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of ultrasonic testing principles and techniques, including probe types, thickness measurements, data interpretation and flaw detection
  • Valid Driver’s License and pre-access drug and alcohol testing required
  • Pre-employment background checks will be required

Responsibilities

  • Perform thorough pre-flight inspections and maintenance to ensure the drone is in good working order
  • Diagnose and resolve technical issues with the drone and ultrasonic equipment
  • Calibrate and maintain ultrasonic equipment
  • Perform basic maintenance on the drone and ultrasonic gauge to ensure optimal performance
  • Plan and execute flight paths, considering factors such as confined space entries, high-altitude locations, weather, airspace restrictions, and mission objectives
  • Perform specialized drone inspections at various customer sites
  • Ensure the drone’s safe navigation during all phases of operation, including takeoff, performance of required actions in flight, and landing
  • Responsible for operating drones following pre-determined flight paths and executing missions safely and efficiently
  • Pilot drones equipped with ultrasonic (UT) technology designed for both visual and wall thickness testing to perform internal and external inspections of various structures, equipment and pipelines, collecting data identifying defects, corrosion or other structural issues
  • Utilize ultrasonic thickness gauge and probe to measure material thickness at designated points, detecting flaws and material damage, ensuring accurate data collection
  • Precisely position ultrasonic probe on target areas to collect measurements and images
  • Capture aerial imagery, videos, and other data using the drone’s sensors and equipment
  • Analyze and interpret data collected from drone flights and ultrasonic tests to identify any variations or abnormalities in thickness, potentially indicating damage or deterioration
  • Interface daily with client about work priorities and progress of project
  • Maintain detailed flight logs and records
  • Maintain accurate records of ultrasonic testing procedures and results
  • Prepare detailed reports of the inspection findings, including measurements, observations, and any recommendations
  • Effectively communicate with team members, clients and other stakeholders about inspection findings and recommendations
  • Adhere to all relevant aviation regulations and safety standards, including pre-flight checks and emergency procedures
  • Conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols
  • Remain informed and up to date on aviation laws and safety guidelines

Preferred Qualifications

  • Secondary education in engineering or related fields considered advantageous
  • Experience operating UTT drones considered an asset; strong preference specifically with the Skygauge Platform
  • Experience with various drone types and models, including drone flight management software and data analysis tools is considered an asset
  • Familiarity with a wide variety of sensors, (LiDAR, EO/IR cameras, and Multi/Hyperspectral) considered a plus