BGE, Inc. is hiring an Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Manager

BGE, Inc. seeks a Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Manager to provide leadership oversight for drone-based surveying and inspection operations. This role is responsible for supporting UAS teams throughout BGE, ensuring regulatory compliance, driving innovation, and expanding aerial service offerings across various sectors.

What You'll Do

• Collaborate with leadership to identify new market opportunities.
• Engage with clients to tailor aerial solutions to project needs.
• Plan, execute, and oversee UAS missions for surveying and inspection.
• Ensure all operations comply with FAA (or local aviation authority) regulations and internal safety protocols.
• Recruit, train, and supervise UAS pilots and support staff.
• Foster a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Evaluate and implement new drone technologies, sensors (LiDAR, photogrammetry), and data processing tools.
• Stay current with industry trends and regulatory changes.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure timely and accurate data delivery.
• Manage budgets, timelines, and client expectations.
• Conduct risk assessments and maintain documentation for all UAS operations.
• Ensure adherence to airspace restrictions and privacy laws.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Surveying, GIS, Engineering, Aviation, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Proven experience as a UAS pilot or manager in a commercial setting.
• Strong knowledge of FAA Part 107 and aviation safety standards.
• Experience with geospatial data processing (e.g., LiDAR, photogrammetry).
• Leadership and project management skills.
• Successful history as client manager.
• Ability to work in diverse environments, including remote or high-risk locations.
• Physical ability to handle and transport equipment.
• Experience in surveying, mapping, or geospatial analysis.
• Familiarity with software such as Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Global Mapper, or similar.
• Knowledge of integration with BIM or CAD workflows.
• Commercial awareness and client-facing experience.

Nice to Have

• Registered Professional Surveyor or ASPRS Certification.

Technical Stack

• LiDAR, photogrammetry, Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Global Mapper, BIM, CAD.

Team & Environment

Provides leadership oversight for drone-based surveying and inspection operations, supporting UAS teams throughout BGE.

Benefits & Compensation

• 401k Match: 100% up to 4% of your contributions with immediate vesting + 3% Safe Harbor Contribution with immediate vesting.
• Merit-Based Bonus Compensation.
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance; BGE contributes to HSA on eligible plans.
• 9 paid Holidays, including 3 Floating holidays.
• Personal Time Allowances.
• 2 to 4 weeks of Vacation, depending on experience-level. Unused vacation carries over to the next year.
• "Unlimited" Sick Days.
• Mentorship Program – Provides you with the opportunity to learn and receive guidance from seasoned professionals.
• Employee Referral Program that pays you for bringing great people into the BGE family.

Work Mode

This role is based locally in the following locations: Texas - Austin (North or South locations), Dallas, Fort Worth, Frisco, Houston, Katy, San Antonio, Waco, The Woodlands, Florida - Jacksonville, Sarasota, Tampa, Vero Beach, West Palm Beach, Georgia - Atlanta, North Carolina - Charlotte, Raleigh, Arkansas - Jacksonville.

BGE is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We prohibit discrimination and all employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, Vietnam Era Veteran Status, Disabled Veteran Status, or any other classification protected by federal, state or local laws.