State of South Carolina logo

State of South Carolina

*READVERTISEMENT* UAS Coordinator

Columbia, SC, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

briefcase

Employment Type

Full-time
clock

Compensation

Type:
Salary
Rate:
Range $52,100.00 - $65,998.00
clock

Work Schedule

Standard Hours
Weekend Shifts
diamond

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Retirement Plan
Paid Time Off
Life insurance
Employee assistance program

Job Description

The South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC) is an established state agency dedicated to the stewardship and management of forest resources across South Carolina. The organization plays a vital role in protecting the state's forests through proactive wildfire prevention, suppression efforts, and sustainable forest management practices. SCFC is committed to utilizing advanced technologies, including Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), to enhance its operational effectiveness and improve forest conservation initiatives.

Within SCFC, the role of the UAS Coordinator is a pivotal position designed to oversee and manage the agency's UAS program from conception through execution and daily operations. This role is essentia... Show More

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree and one year of relevant program experience or approved equivalency
  • Current FAA Part 107 certification
  • Physical fitness test passing 2 miles walk in 30 minutes carrying 25 lb pack or meet agency fitness program
  • Firefighter registration with SC State Fire Marshal's office
  • Criminal background check
  • Drug and alcohol testing
  • Valid Class D driver's license
  • Completion of SCFC Basic Fire School within one year
  • Residency in South Carolina
  • Ability to lift, walk, squat, climb, and carry up to 50 lbs
  • Ability to work indoors and outdoors in changing environmental conditions
  • Ability to work occasional weekends and evenings
  • Must be able to travel overnight occasionally

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience
  • Current FAA Part 107 certification
  • Experience in UAS flight operations
  • Strong knowledge of FAA regulations related to drones
  • Ability to develop and conduct training programs
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to maintain detailed records and documentation
  • Physical fitness to meet agency standards
  • Fireline qualifications preferred
  • Experience with drone software and data management
  • Ability to work collaboratively across departments

Job Duties

  • Coordinate SCFC UAS program design, implementation, and daily administrative activities
  • Maintain standard operating procedures for UAS use
  • Train UAS pilots and maintain pilot proficiency
  • Ensure UAS operations comply with FAA regulations
  • Develop plans for safe integration of UAS into airspace and fire traffic areas
  • Document and maintain pilot training and certification records
  • Coordinate procurement of drones, parts, and related software
  • Prepare and present reports on UAS usage and needs
  • Review and update program objectives and policies
  • Represent SCFC at drone conferences and meetings
  • Collaborate with Fire Staff and Dispatch on integrating drone use
  • Manage drone fleet maintenance and replacement plans
  • Secure grants and funding for drone acquisitions
  • Maintain insurance and FAA registration for drones
  • Work with GIS staff to manage drone-acquired imagery and data
  • Support wildfire response, prescribed burns, and emergency activities

Job Qualifications

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)

Job Location

You may be also interested in: