Drone Pilot

at Alfred Benesch & Company in Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Description

Simply Put, A Great Place to Work
Benesch is a growing, multi-disciplined planning, engineering, and professional services firm. We enhance infrastructure and communities across the country - creating spaces and providing connections in ways that make a difference.
We pride ourselves on being nimble enough to remain responsive to client needs, yet large enough to offer exceptional bench strength. As a member of our team, you'll have an opportunity to draw from those resources when you need them, and likewise, contribute your expertise when you have something to share.
At Benesch, we are looking for candidates with varied backgrounds and worldviews. Diverse ideas come from diverse people, and we are committed to offering an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Statistics show that women and underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for a position if they don't meet 100% of the qualifications. If this statement resonates with you - don't be so hard on yourself. Apply for the job!
Drone Pilot
We are seeking a skilled and certified Drone Pilot with a strong technical background to join our team as a Technical Specialist in the Railroad Division. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in supporting our land surveying and engineering efforts by operating drones to capture high-quality aerial data. Your work will be essential in aiding the planning, design, and maintenance of railroad infrastructure. You will work closely with our engineering team to ensure data accuracy and project success.
Benesch's Railroad Division is made up of highly skilled rail professionals, many of whom are former employees of operating railroads. This firsthand experience working to design and maintain active rail systems uniquely equips our team to develop innovative solutions to a wide variety of rail projects.
Location:
This role will be remote, with required travel to various project sites across the country.
The Impact You Will Have
Operate drones to conduct aerial surveys of railroad tracks, bridges, tunnels, and other infrastructure.
Capture high-resolution images and videos for topographic mapping, modeling, site inspections, and engineering analysis.
Process and analyze aerial data to produce detailed maps, models, and reports.
Collaborate with surveyors, engineers, and project managers to interpret data and provide actionable insights.
Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and company safety protocols.
Maintain and troubleshoot drone equipment to ensure optimal performance.
Travel to various project sites across the country as required.

What We Are Looking For
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Bachelor's degree in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), Geomatics, Surveying, Engineering, or a related field preferred
Valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
Proven experience in drone piloting, preferably in land surveying or engineering applications.
Proficiency in using drone flight planning and data processing software (e.g., Bentley iTwin Platform, Pix4D, Agisoft Metashape).
Knowledge of CAD software (e.g., Microstation, Civil 3D) preferred.
Strong understanding of photogrammetry and LiDAR principles.
Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Willingness to travel extensively and work in various outdoor conditions.
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
Valid driver's license with safe motor vehicle record.
Experience in the railroad industry or infrastructure projectspreferred. #LI-MM1

Explore the Benefits of working at Benesch!
Benesch is a great company to work for! Our comprehensive benefits package includes paid over-time, exceptional retirement fund contributions, flexible schedules, wellness incentives, and all-around great people to work with. Take your career to the next level by applying today.
Our benefits package is designed to take care of our employees. The health and wellness of our employees is essential to their success both personally and professionally. That is why we invest in our employees' well-being by providing a comprehensive benefits package to help them live a healthy lifestyle. Each option can be customized to meet the needs of our employees and their families.
Benesch offers a generous paid time benefits plan that increases throughout your career plus several paid holidays. Our benefits include medical, dental, and vision benefits. We also include company-paid life insurance, short term, and long-term disability plans. Benesch offers a 401K... For full info follow application link.

Alfred Benesch & Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Affirmative Action/ Disability/ Protected Veteran Employer. Qualified applicants are evaluated without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.