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Uas Program Manager Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Lead UAS Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Conduct pre-mission planning with project managers to clarify objectives and deliverables ... Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in ...

As a Senior Staff Systems Engineer on Shield AI's next gen UAS program, you will play a pivotal ... Define and Manage System Requirements: Establish top-level requirements, decompose them into ...

About the Role We're looking for an experienced Scheduler to join our Program Management team and build the heartbeat of our development program. You'll own the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) for ...

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Uas Program Manager information

What are some common challenges faced by a UAS Program Manager and how can they be addressed?

A UAS Program Manager often faces challenges such as rapidly evolving regulatory requirements, ensuring safety and compliance across operations, and coordinating the integration of new technologies with existing processes. Addressing these challenges requires staying current with FAA regulations, fostering clear communication between technical teams and stakeholders, and implementing structured project management methods. Building strong relationships with regulatory bodies and investing in ongoing training for team members also helps to maintain operational efficiency and program success.

What are UAS Program Managers?

UAS Program Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the development, implementation, and operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, within an organization or agency. Their duties include managing teams, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, coordinating projects, and overseeing budgets and timelines. They also work closely with stakeholders to ensure that UAS programs align with organizational goals and safety standards. UAS Program Managers often possess expertise in aviation, engineering, project management, and regulatory compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a UAS Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a UAS Program Manager, you need expertise in unmanned aerial systems, project management experience, and a relevant degree in engineering, aviation, or a related field. Familiarity with UAS operations, FAA regulations, project management software, and often certifications such as PMP or Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate are typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate teams and manage complex projects effectively. These competencies are crucial for ensuring program success, regulatory compliance, and safe, efficient UAS operations.

What is the difference between Uas Program Manager vs Uas Operations Manager?

AspectUas Program ManagerUas Operations Manager
CertificationsFAA Part 107, PMP (optional)FAA Part 107, Safety certifications
Work EnvironmentProject planning, coordination, client communicationOperational oversight, team management, flight operations
Employer & IndustryDrone service providers, aerospace companiesDrone service providers, logistics, infrastructure inspection

The Uas Program Manager focuses on managing drone projects, coordinating teams, and ensuring client requirements are met. In contrast, the Uas Operations Manager oversees daily drone operations, safety protocols, and team management during flight activities. Both roles require FAA certifications and industry experience but differ in scope—project management versus operational execution.

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Infographic showing various Uas Program Manager job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Lead UAS Pilot

GFT.

Houston, TX • On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

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

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions. 

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

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME