Remote Uav Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Location(s): San Diego
Practice/Department: Mapping and Surveying
Work Environment: Remote
Compensation: $43.30-$56.00 hourly*

Dudek’s journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California’s water and wastewater agencies.  

Today, we are a 100% employee-owned firm supporting clients nationwide and delivering projects that improve and protect the built and natural environments of communities throughout the United States. Our work has been recognized by leading industry organizations, and we’ve been honored with multiple national Top Workplace Awards.  

Our employees are unified by a singular commitment to supporting projects that address key societal issues, such as the transition to renewable energy, infrastructure hardening and repair, environmental protection, and community resilience.  

Learn more about our award-winning culture, the benefits and perks of being a Dudekian, and the projects you will have the opportunity to shape.  

Who You Are 

As an employeeyou embrace accountability, working safely, and collaboration while thinking resourcefully and independently.  

Like all Dudekians, you are curious and solution-oriented, with the ability to adapt quickly to changes and approach challenges with a spirit of innovation.  

How You’ll Make an Impact 

The Survey Crew Chief III is a senior field leader who drives the successful delivery of complex surveying projects with precision and efficiency. This role combines advanced expertise in surveying techniques, UAV operations, and geospatial data analysis to produce high-quality, reliable results.

As a trusted leader in the field, the Survey Crew Chief III oversees crew operations, ensures data integrity, and seamlessly coordinates with office teams to keep projects moving forward. Through technical excellence, strong leadership, and a solutions-oriented mindset, this role helps deliver the innovative, high-impact work that defines Dudek.

Duties and Responsibilities  

Field Surveys and UAV Operations

• Independently performs highly complex field surveys, including boundary, topographic, construction staking, and specialized surveys.
• Operates advanced surveying equipment, including total stations, GPS receivers, UAVs (drones), lidar sensors, and magnetometers.
• Plans and executes aerial imagery and remote sensing data collection using UAVs, ensuring compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and Dudek safety protocols.
• Conducts lidar and magnetometer surveys, integrating results with other geospatial data.

Data Analysis and Quality Control

• Analyzes survey data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with industry standards.
• Analyzes and processes survey data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
• Implements quality control procedures for survey practices and geospatial data management.
• Identifies and corrects errors or inconsistencies in field and digital survey data.

Project Coordination and Client Interaction

• Assists in planning and coordinating survey projects, ensuring efficient resource allocation, scheduling, and workflow management.
• Works closely with surveyors, engineers, and project managers to ensure survey deliverables meet project requirements.
• Communicates survey findings and technical insights with clients, regulatory agencies, and internal teams.

Advanced Drafting and Geospatial Deliverables

• Uses CAD software (AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, or similar) to create detailed maps, plans, and technical drawings based on survey data.
• Develops and refines geospatial datasets, reports, and project documentation to meet client and regulatory needs.
• Ensures all deliverables are technically sound, accurate, and compliant with industry standards.

Mentorship and Team Development

• Provides guidance, training, and mentorship to junior survey technicians on survey techniques, data collection, and equipment operation.
• Promotes a culture of continuous learning by sharing best practices and emerging technologies.
• Supports team development through knowledge-sharing, technical training, and leadership.

Minimum Qualifications 

• Experience: 7+ years’ experience in land surveying, mapping, or geospatial data collection; surveying; geographic information systems (GIS); or related fieldwork (internships or coursework may be considered).
• Education: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Geography, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and rough terrain.
• Ability to travel to project sites and work extended hours as needed.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Advanced proficiency in total stations, GPS receivers, UAVs, lidar sensors, and other survey instruments.
• Strong ability to work with CAD software (AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, Trimble Business Center, or similar).
• Extensive knowledge of survey methodologies, remote sensing, and geospatial data analysis.
• FAA Part 107 UAV Operator License required.
• Land Surveyor-in-Training (LSIT) certification preferred.
• Experience leading medium to large surveying projects with minimal oversight.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage project budgets, schedules, and deliverables.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for reporting and team coordination.

Compensation: $43.30-$56.00 hourly*

*Final agreed-upon compensation will be based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, an individual’s related experience, education, certifications, skills, and work location. Successful candidates must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check prior to beginning employment. 

Working Conditions  

• This job operates in an outdoor or office-based environment and this role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, printers, etc. 

• Outdoor activity may involve walking/trekking in uneven terrain over long distances in extreme weather conditions for extended periods of time. 
• This job requires project site visits, based outdoors which can include excessive noise, uneven walking surfaces, extreme weather, and moving vehicles and equipment. 

Physical Requirements 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This job requires the following:  

• Working on a computer, sitting, or standing for long periods of time in an office or remote office setting. 

• Employees must be capable of bending, squatting, climbing ladders, and lifting up to 35 lbs. unassisted; 50lbs in a team lift (two or more employees). 

• Attending meetings, both in person and virtually, and speaking on the phone with peers, clients, etc.  
• Specific vision abilities, including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. 

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