Commerial Drone Pilot

Job Summary
Our client, a leading energy and utility provider, is seeking a Commerial Drone Pilot to join their team. This is a 12-month contract opportunity (August 2026 through August 2027) with potential for both extension and conversion, based out of St. Charles, MO. The UAS Specialist joins a central UAS robotics group performing drone inspections for the entire company, executing data capture flights for electric distribution inspections, processing sensed data, and supporting storm damage assessments. Training is provided (approximately 2–3 months), after which the specialist will perform inspections independently.

Core Responsibilities

• Perform UAS data capture flights for distribution inspections using small UAS drones, meeting deadlines and data delivery schedules for the expected number of distribution poles
• Operate additional inspection equipment to mission standards, including survey systems, ground-based 3D scanning devices, handheld infrared/corona devices, and other cameras
• Perform post-flight data processing, including Infrared (IR) data capture procedures, ensuring collected data is stored, secured, and disseminated to the appropriate groups
• Attend the mandatory daily team meeting (7:00am sharp, Monday through Thursday) and drive to field sites (gas reimbursement provided)
• Prepare drones for the following day and perform UAS work management activities, including job tracking and UAV maintenance
• Support storm damage assessment efforts as needed
• Read and interpret mobile mapping applications such as ArcGIS Collector and Apple Maps to assist in mission strategy planning
• Stay current with federal, state, and local UAS regulations and comply with all client policies and Standard Operating Procedures

Required Skills/Experience (Must-Haves)

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in UAS, GIS, Robotics, Engineering, Surveying, or a related technical field
• 1+ year of relevant experience in utility UAS operations or a related field (recent graduates with a UAS degree will be considered)
• FAA Part 107 commercial drone license
• Hands-on experience with UAVs and troubleshooting electrical and technical components
• Good driving record and strong spatial awareness
• Professionalism in the field, with care not to disturb customers
• Ability to lift up to 55 lbs. and sit/stand for long periods in all weather conditions

Preferred Skills/Experience (Nice-to-Haves)

• Experience processing drone data, imagery, and LIDAR
• Videography experience
• More than one year of professional drone flying experience
• Broad understanding of computer and IT concepts
• Expert-level understanding of UAS field operations

Key Competencies & Behaviors

• Sound decision-making with ambiguous information, aligned with department and organizational goals
• High level of organization and attention to data quality
• Creative self-starter able to work independently after training
• Strong interpersonal skills; works effectively with teams and stakeholders at all levels
• Excellent communication skills — written, verbal, and presentation

Work Environment

• Location: St. Charles, MO (field-based, with driving to inspection sites; gas reimbursement provided)
• Onsite/Field: Monday through Thursday, 7:00am – 5:00pm; Fridays emergency-based; overtime available if approved
• Subject to 24x7x365 emergency call; periodic overnight stays required
• NERC CIP access required

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay Range: The approximate pay range for this position is between $18.00 and $26.00 per hour. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to background, knowledge, skills, and location. We comply with local wage minimums.
• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance Plans
• Employee-Owned Profit Sharing (ESOP)
• 401K offered

About KellyMitchell
At KellyMitchell, our culture is world class. We're movers and shakers! We don't mind a bit of friendly competition, and we reward hard work with unlimited potential for growth. This is an exciting opportunity to join a company known for innovative solutions and unsurpassed customer service. We're passionate about helping companies solve their biggest IT staffing & project solutions challenges. As an employee-owned, women-led organization serving Fortune 500 companies nationwide, we deliver expert service at a moment's notice.

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