Lead UAS Pilot

Gannett Fleming
Fort Worth, Texas 76102 United States  View Map
Posted: Jun 09, 2026
  • Full Time
  • Aviation or Harbor
  • Summary

    Lead UAS Pilot

    GFT is seeking a Lead UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team in the central region of the US. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at our Kansas City, MO, Fort Worth or Houston, TX office.

    What you'll be challenged to do:

    Join our exciting and fast-growing Reality Capture Team, providing a full range of UAS survey, mapping and bridge inspection services on a national level. Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition cameras & video, thermal, LiDAR and other payloads. You'll work on complex, high-impact infrastructure and transportation projects using advanced LiDAR and survey-grade UAS platforms. This role also offers the opportunity to help shape and scale UAS operations at a national level.

    In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

    • Collect top quality LiDAR data for transportation and infrastructure projects.
    • Conduct pre-mission planning with project managers to clarify objectives and deliverables.
    • Develop flight plans, check NOTAMS, check weather and coordinate airspace integration with any effected controlling agencies or privately property owners.
    • Perform equipment setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
    • Solve problems in real-time and deliver acquired data in a timely manner.
    • Establish survey-grade control for sUAS projects utilizing GNSS equipment.
    • Perform "close proximity flights" on bridge superstructures and challenging environments.
    • Assist in developing and administering a structured UAV training program.

    What you will bring to our firm:

    • AA Degree from a Technical School or a BS from an accredited institution.
    • Professional experience with multi-rotor drones (3-years or more preferred).
    • FAA Part 107 license required.
    • Understanding of all components of RPAS, as well as the ability to troubleshoot technical issues in the field.
    • Knowledge of proper operations of sUAS per FAA Part 107 regulations.
    • Knowledge of drone mapping software.
    • Ability to work independently and/or as part of a small team.
    • Ability to travel 50% of the time, when needed for Emergency Response work, and on some weekends.
    • Ability to work outdoors with limited facilities and resources for extended periods of time in various conditions and climates.
    • Must be able to lift 50lbs.
    • Operate and travel in company vehicles for extended field deployments.
    • Previous field work experience required.
    • Must make safety #1 priority at all times.
    • Ability to maintain, inspect, clean, and occasionally repair UAS equipment.
    • Ability to manage small field crew (2-4 people), field schedule, and project expectations.
    • Able to articulate and communicate effectively via text, email and verbally.

    What we prefer you bring:

    • Prior experience with Harris Aerial, Freefly, and Riegl LiDAR Platforms desired.
    • Previous surveying, data processing, or engineering experience a plus.
    • Prior supervisory experience a plus.

    Compensation:

    The salary range for this role is $38.00 - $55.00 per/hour. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

    Featured Benefits:

    • Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
    • Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
    • Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
    • Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
    • Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
    • Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
    • Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

    Location: Kansas City, MO, Fort Worth or Houston, TX. Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Employment Status: Full-Time

  • Job Description

    Lead UAS Pilot

    GFT is seeking a Lead UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team in the central region of the US. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at our Kansas City, MO, Fort Worth or Houston, TX office.

    What you'll be challenged to do:

    Join our exciting and fast-growing Reality Capture Team, providing a full range of UAS survey, mapping and bridge inspection services on a national level. Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition cameras & video, thermal, LiDAR and other payloads. You'll work on complex, high-impact infrastructure and transportation projects using advanced LiDAR and survey-grade UAS platforms. This role also offers the opportunity to help shape and scale UAS operations at a national level.

    In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

    • Collect top quality LiDAR data for transportation and infrastructure projects.
    • Conduct pre-mission planning with project managers to clarify objectives and deliverables.
    • Develop flight plans, check NOTAMS, check weather and coordinate airspace integration with any effected controlling agencies or privately property owners.
    • Perform equipment setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
    • Solve problems in real-time and deliver acquired data in a timely manner.
    • Establish survey-grade control for sUAS projects utilizing GNSS equipment.
    • Perform "close proximity flights" on bridge superstructures and challenging environments.
    • Assist in developing and administering a structured UAV training program.

    What you will bring to our firm:

    • AA Degree from a Technical School or a BS from an accredited institution.
    • Professional experience with multi-rotor drones (3-years or more preferred).
    • FAA Part 107 license required.
    • Understanding of all components of RPAS, as well as the ability to troubleshoot technical issues in the field.
    • Knowledge of proper operations of sUAS per FAA Part 107 regulations.
    • Knowledge of drone mapping software.
    • Ability to work independently and/or as part of a small team.
    • Ability to travel 50% of the time, when needed for Emergency Response work, and on some weekends.
    • Ability to work outdoors with limited facilities and resources for extended periods of time in various conditions and climates.
    • Must be able to lift 50lbs.
    • Operate and travel in company vehicles for extended field deployments.
    • Previous field work experience required.
    • Must make safety #1 priority at all times.
    • Ability to maintain, inspect, clean, and occasionally repair UAS equipment.
    • Ability to manage small field crew (2-4 people), field schedule, and project expectations.
    • Able to articulate and communicate effectively via text, email and verbally.

    What we prefer you bring:

    • Prior experience with Harris Aerial, Freefly, and Riegl LiDAR Platforms desired.
    • Previous surveying, data processing, or engineering experience a plus.
    • Prior supervisory experience a plus.

    Compensation:

    The salary range for this role is $38.00 - $55.00 per/hour. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

    Featured Benefits:

    • Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
    • Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
    • Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
    • Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
    • Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
    • Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
    • Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

    Location: Kansas City, MO, Fort Worth or Houston, TX. Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Employment Status: Full-Time

  • ABOUT THE COMPANY

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    • Government Careers

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    Whether you’re starting your career or seeking new opportunities, these roles provide pathways for growth, security, and service.

    Explore positions across a wide range of fields and take the first step toward a rewarding future in public service.

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