About us

National Grid is hiring a Lead UAS Pilot for our Aviation department in Syracuse, NY                                                

Every day we deliver safe and secure energy to homes, communities, and businesses. We are there when people need us the most. We connect people to the energy they need for the lives they live. 

The pace of change in society and our industry is accelerating and our expertise and track record puts us in an unparalleled position to shape the sustainable future of our industry. To be successful we must anticipate the needs of our customers, reducing the cost of energy delivery today and pioneering the flexible energy systems of tomorrow. This requires us to deliver on our promises and always look for new opportunities to grow, both ourselves and our business.

Job Purpose

14 CFR Part 107 Operation is seeking a full-time Lead Remote Pilot. The position will fly the company Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to conduct business on behalf of the National Grid and its operating companies. The remote pilot’s primary duty will be flying the company’s UAS and/or leading the UAS flight crew as the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC). The Lead Remote Pilot is also responsible for the management and administrative functions related to UAS flight operations to include, developing procedures, conducting testing, attending or leading training, attending meetings, and participating in conferences to have a safe and innovative UAS department. This position will be based in Syracuse, New York.

Key Accountabilities

· Maintain valid licenses and certificates required to perform UAS flight duties.

· Remain current and qualified with the assigned UAS and be familiar with all regulations and procedures pertaining to its operation.

· Analyze key information including but not limited to customer data requirements, maintenance logs, airspace, National Grid assets, weather conditions and terrain prior to UAS flight operations.

· Keep up to date with industry developments through trade associations, publications and industry events.

· Maintain personal flying proficiency in accordance with National Grid requirements.

· Fly single-pilot or as a member of a crew as the work and situation require.

· Act as the Remote Pilot in Command as the work and situation require.

· Responsible for assigned UAS flight crew and their activities when acting as RPIC. Flight crew will consist of RPIC and VO at a minimum and can also include an Equipment Operator (EO) or multiple VOs.

· Responsible for ensuring UAS flight crew complies with all safety standards, policies and processes to ensure a safe working environment for all observers and members of the public when acting as RPIC.

· Maintain UAS and personal records

· Perform additional administrative duties and special projects.

· Participate in Storm Response efforts and activities.

Qualifications

· Knowledge and experience of 5+ years within commercial UAS inspection operations.

· Valid FAA Remote Pilot certificate.

· Understanding of power line / gas line infrastructure and design.

· LIDAR and BVLOS UAS operations experience

· Level 1 Thermographer certification

· High School or GED-General Educational Development-GED Diploma

· Advanced degree in unmanned aviation or related field preferred.

· A minimum of the following hours:

o Total UAS Flight Time: 1000

o RPIC: 750

· Experience with Skydio, Freefly and Censys flight systems

· MS Office 365 and general computer skills.

· Working knowledge of photography.

· Ability to travel up to 90% of the time (daily or overnight) within NY, MA, NH and VT.

· Clean driving record and off-road driving experience.

· Ability to safely drive full-size pickup with a trailer

Capability Requirements:

· Understand the importance of aviation procedures and standards of working and demonstrates the ability to give directions with clear reasons and rationales.

· Ability to become proficient on the types of UAS the company operates.

· Ability to plan all aspects of UAS flights including pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight.

· Perform a complete pre-and post-flight inspection of the UAS using required checklists.

· Perform operator-level maintenance on the UAS as required.

· Perform the loading, unloading and setup of UAS equipment and accessories.

· Complete all required UAS forms, logs, records, and reports.

· Able to work outside year-round in various weather and terrain conditions.

· Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time while carrying or using UAS equipment

· Ability to lift and carry 55 pounds

· Able to provide excellent customer service to internal and external National Grid customers.

· Ability to effectively communicate, orally and in writing, in a concise, clear, and engaging manner.

· Ability to work independently and as a member of a team, handle multiple tasks and determine priorities in a complex environment.

More Information

Salary: $99,000 - $116,000

This position has a career path which provides for advancement opportunities within and across bands as you develop and evolve in the position; gaining experience, expertise and acquiring and applying technical skills. Internal candidates will be assessed and provided offers against the minimum qualifications of this role and their individual experience. 

National Grid is an equal opportunity employer that values a broad diversity of talent, knowledge, experience and expertise.  We foster a culture of inclusion that drives employee engagement to deliver superior performance to the communities we serve.  National Grid is proud to be an affirmative action employer. We encourage minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans to join the National Grid team.  

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