UAS Pilot – Field Operations

Job Title: UAS Pilot – Field Operations

Location: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi (partial relocation assistance is available to candidates outside of these states)

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary:

The UAS Pilot is responsible for operating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to support field operations, including inspections, surveys, and data collection, and/or for providing remote operational support and coordination within the Aerial Operations Center (AOC). This role requires a high level of technical expertise, meticulous attention to detail, the ability to work in diverse environments, willingness to travel, and strong communication and customer service skills.

Key Responsibilities:

UAS Operations

• Operate UAS to conduct aerial inspections, surveys, and data collection for various projects.

• Serve as a FAA Remote Pilot-in-Command (RPIC), ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

• Plan and execute flight missions, including pre-flight and post-flight inspections of UAS equipment.

• Analyze weather conditions to ensure safe and effective flight operations.

• Collect, process, and verify aerial data meets desired quality and consistency standards.

• Maintain accurate flight logs and operational reports.

• Troubleshoot and conduct routine maintenance on UAS systems and equipment.

• Provide training to other pilots (initial, qualification, progression, and advanced) as needed.

• Assist in developing UAS operational standards, techniques, and training programs.

• Serve as a visual observer and technical advisor, as needed.

AOC Support

• Airspace Management : Coordinate and support the company’s airspace management program, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and managing airspace deconfliction.

• Dispatch & Scheduling Support :Authorize and schedule aerial contractors, UAS pilots, UAS operations, and manned aircraft activities to meet operational needs.

• Contractor Administration :Liaise with aerial contractors, Supply Chain, and system stakeholders to ensure adherence to company policies and compliance requirements.

• Emergency Support: Assist in restoration efforts during emergencies (e.g., storms), coordinating with Air Traffic Control (ATC), FAA, and emergency agencies to maintain safe airspace operations.

• Data Analytics : Leverage operational data to monitor and improve the efficiency of aerial operations, contributing to process enhancements and performance reporting.

• Customer Support: Provide help-desk support within the AOC, including technical assistance, airspace authorizations, and flight scheduling for internal and external stakeholders.

General

• Support and participate in the Safety Management Program.

• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to achieve operational objectives.

• Stay current on industry trends, FAA regulations, and UAS technology advancements.

• Complete administrative tasks, such as documentation and reporting, in a timely and accurate manner.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by Leadership.

Qualifications:

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required.

• In-depth knowledge of FAA regulations, UAS operational standards, aviation weather analysis, airspace operations, and authorization processes.

• Valid Driver’s License (ability to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License [CDL] if requested).

• Proficiency in UAS technology, including flight planning software and aerial data processing tools.

• Strong problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in diverse settings.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for coordination and customer support.

• Willingness to travel and adapt to various working conditions for UAS operations.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Engineering, Aviation, Geospatial Science) preferred.

• Ideal candidate will have 1 – 2 years of moderate field experience, complex inspections & operations

• Experience with UAS operations in the energy sector.

• Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies.

• Proficiency in data analysis, management, reporting, and product development.

• FAA Part 61 Pilot License.

Working Conditions:

• UAS Field Operations are primarily conducted outdoors in various weather conditions, with extensive travel (100%).

• AOC activities are primarily indoors, with occasional travel to support field operations or emergency response.

• Flexibility to work non-traditional hours as needed (Day 75%, Night 25%).

About Southern Company

Southern Company (NYSE: SO ) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture has been recognized by a variety of organizations, earning the company awards and recognitions that reflect Our Values and dedication to service. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com .

Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees and health, welfare and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount of any bonus/awards subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s). A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here https://seo.nlx.org/southernco/pdf/SOCO-Benefits.pdf . Additional and specific details about total compensation and benefits will also be provided during the hiring process.

Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Job Identification: 12049

Job Category: Aviation

Job Schedule: Full time

Company: Southern Company Services

Candidate Profile

Take a few minutes to create or modify your employment profile and to specify your preferred working criteria for future openings matching your interests.

Create / access My Profile

Our Culture & Hiring Process

Learn more about Southern Company’s culture, values, and inclusion initiatives and what our hiring process looks like. You are one step closer to helping us build the future of energy!