Location: Waterloo, IA

Job Type: Full time, exempt

Category: Intermediate or above (3+ years)

Compensation: $75,000-$119,000 annually

Description 

As an airborne operations engineer, you will leverage your technical expertise and problem-solving skills to design, optimize, and oversee complex airborne data acquisition and processing operations. This broad role at our headquarters in Cedar Falls, Iowa demands high intelligence, encompassing engineering innovation, system integration, data analytics, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver cutting-edge geospatial solutions for clients nationwide.

Responsibilities: 

• Project Management: Lead the end-to-end management of airborne data collection missions; coordinate acquisition and processing of data; track project timelines, milestones, and deliverables to ensure on-time delivery to clients.
• Aircraft/Sensor Operation & Quality Assurance: Perform crewmember duties as a pilot and/or sensor operator during aerial survey flights, including LiDAR and multispectral imaging missions, while adhering to FAA regulations and company safety protocols; perform data quality checks post-mission to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving: Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues in real-time during flights or post-mission, such as sensor malfunctions, data anomalies, or integration conflicts; employ root-cause analysis and innovative engineering solutions to minimize downtime.
• Research, Development, and Technology Insertion: Evaluate emerging sensors, platforms, AI-assisted tools, and advanced processing algorithms; lead proof-of-concept projects that give Aerial Services, Inc. a competitive edge in accuracy, turnaround time, or new market capabilities.
• Operational Optimization: Analyze and refine flight operations workflows, including mission planning, sensor calibration, and real-time data streaming; collaborate with internal and external teams while analyzing weather conditions, terrain, and airspace restrictions to optimize mission success.
• Aircraft/Sensor Design, Maintenance, and Repairs: Manage aircraft and sensors in an efficient manner; design and implement functional components and processes; coordinate routine and non-routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs for aircraft and survey equipment; troubleshoot issues to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.
• Inventory and Resource Management: Manage spare parts inventory, tools, equipment, and data; recommend upgrades or replacements for aircraft, equipment, and processes to enhance operational efficiency.
• On-Call and Travel Duties: Be available for on-call help during peak survey seasons; occasional travel to remote job sites for field operations, aircraft repositioning, and emergency maintenance.

Required Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, preferred Mechanical or Aerospace
• FAA Private Pilot Certificate/Instrument Rating, SEL
• Aviation or remote sensing industry experience
• Teamwork and ability to communicate and coordinate with and manage external teams/resources
• Interpersonal, organizational, problem-solving and time management skills to work effectively, independently, and remotely
• US Citizenship, Legally employable in the United States without sponsorship. Onboarding will include identity verification through E-Verify.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate, SEL/MEL
• CAD design & 3D Printing experience
• Python & Scripting languages for custom workflow automation
• Survey/Mission flying experience
• Geospatial data processing experience
• Aircraft ownership or management