Senior Drone Operations

Skye Link Drones is hiring a Senior UAS Operations Manager to lead nationwide drone operations, manage pilot teams, coordinate complex aerial data projects, and ensure high-quality client delivery.This is a senior operational role for someone with strong unmanned aircraft systems experience, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage drone projects from scoping through execution and delivery. The ideal candidate understands UAS field operations, drone data collection workflows, project coordination, pilot management, and quality control across mapping, inspections, solar, utilities, infrastructure, construction, and geospatial services.Compensation varies depending on candidate experience level.ResponsibilitiesProject & Flight Operations Management Manage nationwide UAS flight operations by coordinating pilots and contractors, relaying mission details, reviewing flight plans, coordinating airspace authorizations, confirming site access, ensuring timely data uploads, and conducting data quality checks.Client & Project Delivery Serve as a primary operational point of contact for clients. Coordinate project requirements, timelines, deliverables, field constraints, and post-delivery follow-up to ensure strong client satisfaction.Pilot Network Management Support pilot onboarding, vetting, certification and insurance verification, capability tracking, assignment matching, and ongoing pilot performance management.Advanced Data Collection Workflows Support projects involving aerial mapping, RTK/PPK capture, GCP coordination, thermal inspections, utility inspections, construction progress, rooftop modeling, and geospatial deliverables.Cross-Functional Coordination Work closely with sales, operations, data processing teams, pilots, and subcontractors to ensure projects are executed safely, efficiently, and within scope.Quality Control & Technical Review Review incoming field data for completeness, coverage, accuracy, image quality, and alignment with client requirements before processing or delivery.Operational Systems & Process Improvement Help improve SOPs, pilot instructions, project handoffs, QA/QC workflows, and scalable systems for managing complex multi-site drone projects.Growth & Innovation Support the expansion of Skye Link's advanced service offerings, including LiDAR, utility inspection, solar thermography, and geospatial data products.Market Insight Stay informed on drone industry trends, emerging UAS technologies, software platforms, and key markets including energy, utilities, infrastructure, construction, and renewables.QualificationsCurrent FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate3+ years of drone operations, UAS program management, geospatial, inspection, mapping, utility, construction, or related experienceStrong hands-on understanding of unmanned aircraft operations, mission planning, field data capture, and UAS safety practicesExperience managing drone pilots, contractors, vendors, or distributed field teamsStrong understanding of drone data collection, photography, imaging, mapping, and inspection workflowsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsStrong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple active projectsHigh attention to detail and strong commitment to safety, quality, and client serviceSelf-motivated and comfortable working independently in a fast-moving environmentNice to HavesExperience with aerial LiDAR, RTK/PPK workflows, GCPs, CAD, GIS, or point cloud deliverablesExperience in renewable energy, utilities, infrastructure, construction, engineering, or surveyingExperience with utility inspections, solar PV inspections, construction progress monitoring, or technical asset inspectionsFamiliarity with platforms such as DroneDeploy, Pix4D, DJI Pilot 2, Raptor Maps, AutoCAD, ArcGIS, QGIS, Global Mapper, LP360, LiDAR360, or similar toolsManned aviation, helicopter, or utility aviation background that translates well into UAS operations, safety, and field coordinationBachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, Aviation, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related fieldCompensation and BenefitsCompetitive base salary based on experienceBonus and performance-based incentive opportunitiesHealthcare benefits including medical, dental, and vision401(k) with company matchPaid time offFlexible scheduleJob Type: Full-timeSchedule: Monday to FridayWork Location: Charlotte, NC preferred / hybrid considered for the right candidate

Created: 2026-05-10