UAS Pilot- Transmission & Distribution

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About Us

Welcome to United Utility, a dynamic player in the electric utility industry, headquartered in the vibrant city of New Orleans, LA. As a trailblazer, we provide comprehensive and innovative offerings that bolster power infrastructure investments across the U.S. We proudly serve as the parent company to industry?leading utility service contractors specializing in transmission, substation, distribution, and grid hardening projects. Our Core Values are Safety, Quality, Integrity, and Professionalism. At United Utility, we craft power delivery solutionsbuilt safe, engineered smart, and driven by what customers demandfueling communities with reliable energy. We are the best?in?class, trusted partner delivering customer?centric Power Delivery Construction and Engineering solutions.

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled and experienced UAS Pilot to join our team in the Transmission and Distribution (T&D) industry. As a UAS Pilot, you will play a crucial role in providing ground and aerial field survey support to our Design, Permitting, and Construction Technicians, as well as other departments, to ensure exceptional service to our clients. This position requires frequent travel and overnight stays at project sites; all expenses will be paid by United Utility. A clean driving record is essential. Under the direct supervision of the Field Survey Supervisor, you will be responsible for collecting valuable data from distribution power lines, poles, and related equipment using handheld ground cameras and aerial sensors equipped with thermal and standard photogrammetry capabilities. The data will be utilized by our mapping and Design Technicians to ensure accurate visual representation and analysis. You have the opportunity to receive training in Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Utility locating procedures, and we encourage you to pursue Thermography Level 1 certification for Infrared (IR) analysis and condition assessments.

Key Responsibilities

• Pre?flight Planning : Conduct thorough pre?flight planning, including reviewing project requirements, assessing weather conditions, identifying potential hazards, and developing a flight plan that ensures safe and efficient data collection.
• UAS Operation : Safely operate unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to capture visual and thermal data of T&D poles, following all regulatory guidelines and best practices, maintaining control during flight, and monitoring equipment performance.
• Data Collection : Utilize UAS?mounted cameras and sensors to collect accurate, high?quality data of T&D poles, including images, thermal scans, and LiDAR from various angles and distances.
• Inspection and Analysis : Conduct visual inspections of T&D poles, identify any signs of damage, wear, or potential issues, analyze the data, compare against established standards, and provide detailed reports or recommendations for maintenance or repair.
• Safety Compliance : Ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulations throughout the UAS flight operations, mitigating risks associated with flying near power lines, structures, or personnel. Maintain situational awareness and make real?time decisions to prioritize safety.
• Equipment Maintenance : Perform routine maintenance and inspections of UAS equipment, checking batteries, propellers, cameras, sensors, and other critical components.
• Communication and Collaboration : Effectively communicate with team members, project stakeholders, and other personnel to coordinate flights, share findings, and address concerns; collaborate with design, engineering, and maintenance teams.
• Continued Learning : Stay updated on advancements in UAS technology, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices related to T&D operations; pursue training, certifications, and professional development opportunities.

Key Qualifications

Work Environment

The UAS pilot / Survey Technician operates in a dynamic work environment that involves extensive fieldwork, effective communication, and frequent long?distance travel with overnight stays. The role requires walking and standing for extended periods, maintaining professionalism and composure when interacting with customers, and adhering to proper safety procedures. It is a high?stress environment demanding rigorous safety and operational discipline.

Job Details

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