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Drone Visual Observer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Drone Visual Observer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drone Visual Observer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Visual Observer, you need a solid understanding of FAA regulations, strong situational awareness, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drone operations, radio communication systems, and sometimes completion of the FAA Part 107 certification are important technical requirements. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to remain alert and focused for extended periods are crucial soft skills. These abilities are important to ensure safe drone operations by effectively identifying hazards and maintaining compliance with aviation regulations.

How does a Drone Visual Observer typically collaborate with the drone pilot during operations?

A Drone Visual Observer works closely with the drone pilot to ensure safe and compliant flight operations. The observer maintains continuous visual line-of-sight with the drone, monitoring for obstacles, air traffic, and any hazards that could affect the mission. Regular, clear communication between the observer and the pilot is essential, as the observer relays real-time information and alerts the pilot to any safety concerns. This teamwork is crucial for meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring the safety of people and property in the vicinity.

What is the difference between Drone Visual Observer vs Drone Pilot?

AspectDrone Visual ObserverDrone Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Certification often requiredFAA Part 107 Certification required
Work EnvironmentAssists drone pilots in various outdoor settingsOperates and controls drones directly
Job RoleSupports safety and situational awarenessManages drone flight operations

The Drone Visual Observer and Drone Pilot roles often overlap in certifications and work environments, but the Visual Observer primarily supports safety and monitoring, while the Pilot controls the drone directly. Both roles are essential in drone operations, especially in industries like construction, surveying, and film production.

What are Drone Visual Observers?

Drone Visual Observers are individuals who assist drone pilots by maintaining visual contact with the drone during flight operations. Their primary responsibility is to monitor the drone for potential hazards, ensure it remains within legal line-of-sight requirements, and communicate any safety concerns to the pilot in real time. Visual Observers play a critical role in safe drone operations, especially during complex or beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) missions. They help prevent collisions and ensure compliance with aviation regulations.
What are popular job titles related to Drone Visual Observer jobs in Virginia? For Drone Visual Observer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Visual Observer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Visual Observer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Drone Visual Observer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Drone Visual Observer job openings:
Drone Visual Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Visual Observer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 82% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.
Building Envelope Consultant - QAO

Building Envelope Consultant - QAO

Raymond

Christiansburg, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

The Raymond Corporation rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 486 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Building Envelope Consultant / Quality Assurance Observer (QAO)
Location: Christiansburg, VA / Richmond, VA / Remote (Hybrid options available)

About Raymond:
We are a progressive, forward-thinking architecture and engineering consulting firm with over 30 years of experience. Employee-focused and technology-driven, we deliver high-quality, cost-effective, and precise services to clients across diverse market sectors, including federal government, healthcare, education, and commercial industries. Our commitment to innovation, employee development, and project excellence has established us as a leader in the industry.

Position: Building Envelope Consultant / QAO
We are seeking an experienced Building Envelope Consultant / Quality Assurance Observer (QAO) to support inspection, testing, and quality assurance efforts on building envelope projects. This role focuses on ensuring construction activities related to roofing, waterproofing, wall systems, and related components are executed in accordance with contract documents, specifications, and industry standards. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, field-focused, and capable of working independently while maintaining strong communication with project teams.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Perform on-site inspections of building envelope systems, including roofing, waterproofing, masonry, curtain wall, EIFS, sealants, and air barriers.
  • Observe contractor work and identify deviations from contract documents, approved submittals, and specifications.
  • Prepare and submit daily inspection reports documenting site conditions, progress, and deficiencies.
  • Communicate deficiencies to contractor representatives and coordinate with project engineers for resolution.
  • Conduct pre-construction and pre-work meetings as required.
  • Review project drawings, specifications, and submittals to ensure understanding of project requirements prior to field work.
  • Perform visual surveys, including photographic documentation, measurements, and condition assessments.
  • Prepare written reports summarizing findings, recommendations, and conclusions.
  • Perform building envelope testing (upon certification), including infrared thermography, moisture scanning, and water testing.
  • Assist with contract administration tasks, including submittal reviews and documentation support.
  • Maintain professional relationships with contractors, clients, and project teams.
  • Assist in training and mentoring junior inspectors and team members.
  • Maintain and properly use company-issued equipment, including inspection tools and technology.
  • Stay current with industry standards (IIBEC, ASTM, AAMA, ASHRAE) and maintain required certifications.

Job Requirements:

  • Authorized to work in the United States.
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • RRO (Registered Roof Observer) certification from IIBEC with 3+ years of experience,
    or minimum of 5+ years of related building envelope experience.
  • Experience with roofing, waterproofing, and building envelope systems.
  • Ability to travel up to 50%.
  • Ability and willingness to perform field work on construction sites.
  • OSHA 10/30 certification (or willingness to obtain).
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Valid driver’s license required.
  • Certified Infrared Thermographer or experience with building envelope testing is a plus.
  • Drone Operator License required for candidates performing drone inspections.
  • Strong attention to detail, documentation, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage field responsibilities effectively.
  • Pre-employment drug test and background check required.

Working Conditions:
This role requires significant field work on active construction sites. Physical demands include climbing ladders, walking roofs, working at heights, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in varying weather and site conditions. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.

What We Offer:
We provide a collaborative, field-driven environment with opportunities to develop specialized expertise in building envelope systems and quality assurance. This role offers hands-on experience across diverse projects and the opportunity to grow within a technically focused team.

We participate in E-Verify.
EOE M/F/D/V

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