Suas Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Unmanned Systems Operator I (Survey/Part 107)

Date: Jul 23, 2026

Location: RICHMOND, VA, US, 23250

Company: Dominion Energy

Dominion Energy is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy that powers our customers every day. If you want to work for a purpose-driven company that values safety and collaboration, we're looking for you. You won't just find a job here; you'll find your career. Review the position below and apply today.

Military service members and veterans with ranks from E3-E5, W1-W2, or O1-O3, plus appropriate equivalent combination of education and years of experience as outlined below will be considered for this opportunity.

At this time, Dominion Energy cannot transfer or sponsor a work visa or employment authorization for this position.

This position does not offer relocation assistance.

Job Summary

The Unmanned Systems Operator I learns to support routine and rapid response of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) inspections throughout the Dominion Energy operating footprint. Will develop skills and knowledge to provide consulting and data processing. This position is based out of Richmond, VA but will entail frequent travel across the Dominion Energy footprint.

Responsibilities and duties:

• Operate with a safety mindset at all times;

• Develop flight plans, check NOTAMS, check weather and coordinate airspace integration with any affected controlling agencies or privately-owned properties;

• Conduct pre-mission briefs and complete safety risk assessments prior to flight as well as after-action reviews upon post-flight;

• Responsible for company vehicle and high dollar unmanned systems;

• Maintain strict compliance with all FAA Part 107 sUAS rules and regulations;

• Execute UAS operations in accordance with Dominion Energy procedures;

• Solve problems and provide a new perspective on existing solutions;

• Collaborate with coworkers, partners and clients on projects;

• Serve as the face of the company on the ground, providing superior customer service;

• Perform minor integration and maintenance on the aircraft;

• Travel frequently (up to 76 to 100%)

Note : Successful candidates will be lifting up to 50 lbs independently. Work involves walking through brush, heavily wooded areas, and on uneven terrain. Will be standing for several hours at a time. Work takes place primarily outside in all weather conditions. Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, and maintain awkward or restricted positions as tasks require. Ability to remain standing for prolonged periods and perform work while on their feet throughout the shift. Ability to enter, work within, and exit confined spaces in accordance with safety procedures and applicable regulations.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience

Required : Both 2+ years of surveying experience and 14 CFR Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is required.

Other knowledge, skills, abilities and experience:

• Possessing a general understanding of the capabilities, limitations and sensor payloads of the applicable Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

• Ability to manipulate precise instrumentation with coordination.

• Good knowledge of aviation principles.

• Ability to provide guidance to others through day-to-day interactions.

• Ability to work independently as well as supportively within a team.

• Demonstrated willingness to learn.

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to safely perform physically demanding tasks in a variety of work environments. Candidates may be required to successfully complete a Human Performance Evaluation (HPE) and medical evaluation as a condition of employment. The evaluation may include activities designed to assess an individual's ability to perform the essential functions of the position, including but not limited to:

• Lifting and carrying materials, tools, and equipment.

• Pushing and pulling weighted objects.

• Climbing stairs, ladders, and elevated structures.

• Crawling and accessing confined or restricted spaces.

• Repetitive bending, squatting, kneeling, and other work-related postures.

• Sustained physical activity requiring cardiovascular endurance.

• Performing work in varying environmental and operational conditions.

Preferred:

Background in sUAS as well as with other robotic operations (submersibles, ROV's).

Education Requirements

Degree or an equivalent combination of education and demonstrated related experience may be accepted in lieu of preferred level of education: Associate degree

Preferred Discipline(s): Aviation, Software Development, Robotics

Other related disciplines may be substituted for the preferred disciplines listed above.

Licenses, Certifications, or Quals Description

Required: 14 CFR Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate; Driver's license and clean driving record; will operate a company vehicle.

Working Conditions

Loud Noise Up to 25%

Outdoors 76-100%

Office Work Environment Up to 25%

Travel 76- 100%

Other Working Conditions

Test Description

No Testing Required

Export Control

Certain positions at Dominion Energy may involve access to information and technology subject to export controls under U.S. law. Compliance with these export controls may result in Dominion Energy limiting its consideration of certain applicants.

What You'll Get

Expected Hiring Base Salary Range:

$52800 - $68600

The expected hiring base salary range is the range we anticipate hiring within for this position. The actual salary offered may vary based on factors such as the selected candidate's qualifications, skills, experience, and work location. This is not intended to represent the full salary range for the position or limit future compensation growth.

At Dominion Energy, we offer excellent plans and programs for employees. Employees are rewarded with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package which includes: health, dental, and vision benefits with coverage for families and domestic partners, vacation, retirement plans including 401k contributions and matches, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, bonus eligibility, sick leave, and disability insurance. To learn more about our benefits, click here:

Dominion Energy is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin and/or status as a protected veteran or individual with a disability.

You can experience the excitement of our company - it's the difference between taking a job and starting a career.

Nearest Major Market: Richmond

Job Segment: Testing, Consulting, Instrumentation, Environmental Engineering, Technology, Engineering