Geospatial Engineering: Lead UAV Pilot

Role Overview

UAV Flight Operations

• Plan and execute UAV survey operations across varied project types and operational environments.
• Review site requirements, operational constraints, and survey objectives before deployment.
• Conduct UAV flights to capture high-resolution spatial data to project specifications.
• Maintain safety, professionalism, and technical quality during field activities.
• Improve UAV operational practices and data capture techniques.

Survey and Data Capture

• Lead aerial survey data collection using UAV platforms, GNSS equipment, and complementary survey technologies.
• Undertake or oversee terrestrial surveying, including laser scanning and positioning activities.
• Verify that data acquisition meets requirements for accuracy, coverage, and completeness.
• Apply surveying principles and provide specialist input to complex projects.
• Determine appropriate data capture techniques with project teams for client requirements.

Processing and Technical Leadership

• Support processing and validation of photogrammetry models, point clouds, and spatial datasets.
• Contribute to accurate digital representations of real-world assets and environments.
• Provide technical guidance for UAV surveying and airborne data capture.
• Promote best practices in UAV operations, survey methodology, and data quality management.
• Mentor colleagues and share knowledge across geospatial and digital delivery teams.

Qualifications and Experience

• Demonstrable UAV operations experience in surveying, mapping, and spatial data capture is required.
• UK CAA Remote Pilot Competency at GVC level or a recognized equivalent is required.
• Experience planning and delivering drone-based surveys in varied operational environments is required.
• Strong knowledge of spatial data acquisition principles and survey methodologies is required.
• Experience with photogrammetry outputs, point clouds, and survey deliverables is required.
• Working knowledge of CAD environments is required.
• Candidates must be able to select survey methodologies based on project requirements.

Standards and Quality

• Follow documented UK processing workflows and quality assurance and quality control procedures.
• Comply with UK and client standards, including CAA, Network Rail, and RICS standards.
• Identify errors, inconsistencies, and data gaps and escalate issues promptly.

Workplace Context

• The role includes UAV field operations and survey work across varied operational environments.
• AECOM describes hybrid work options, including office, remote, and client-site work, while requiring in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office.