Geospatial Engineering: Lead UAV Pilot

The Lead UAV Pilot is responsible for the safe planning, coordination and execution of UAV survey operations in support of the geospatial, surveying and digital delivery services. The role provides technical leadership for drone-based data capture activities, ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality spatial datasets to support engineering, infrastructure, and environmental applications. Working across a diverse range of sectors and environments, the Lead UAV Pilot will oversee UK UAV flight operations, support the development of innovative survey methodologies, and work collaboratively with the UAV accountable manager, clients, project managers and multidisciplinary teams to deliver efficient and reliable survey solutions. In addition to maintaining technical excellence in field operations, the role acts as a key point of expertise for UAV deployment, survey planning, data acquisition and continuous improvement of operational practices. Here’s what you’ll do: UAV Flight Operations - Lead the planning and execution of UAV survey operations across a variety of project types and operational environments. - Undertake pre-deployment planning activities, including review of site requirements, operational constraints and survey objectives. - Conduct UAV flights to capture high-resolution spatial data in accordance with project specifications and operational requirements. - Maintain high standards of operational safety, professionalism and technical quality during all field activities. - Support continuous improvement of UAV operational practices and data capture techniques. Survey & Spatial Data Capture - Lead the collection of aerial survey datasets using UAV platforms, GNSS-enabled equipment and complementary survey technologies. - Undertake and oversee associated terrestrial survey activities where required, including laser scanning and positioning activities. - Verify that survey data acquisition meets project requirements for accuracy, coverage and completeness. - Apply sound surveying principles throughout field operations and contribute specialist technical input to complex projects. - Work with project teams to determine the most appropriate data capture techniques for client requirements. Data Processing & Digital Delivery - Support the processing and validation of UAV survey outputs, including photogrammetry models, point clouds and spatial datasets. - Contribute to the development and delivery of accurate digital representations of real-world assets and environments. Technical Leadership - Provide technical guidance for UAV surveying and airborne data capture activities. - Promote best practice in UAV operations, survey methodology and data quality management. - Share knowledge and lessons learned across the wider geospatial and digital delivery teams. - Support the development of team capability through mentoring, coaching and technical collaboration. Quality Assurance & Standards - Follow documented UK processing workflows and QA/QC procedures - Provide compliance with UK and client standards (e.g. CAA, Network Rail, RICS etc) - Identify errors, inconsistencies, or data gaps and escalate issues promptly Ready to push the limits of what’s possible? Here’s what we’re looking for: - Demonstrable experience in UAV operations for surveying, mapping and spatial data capture applications. - UK CAA Remote Pilot Competency (GVC or recognised equivalent) - Experience planning and delivering drone-based surveys in varied operational environments. - Strong understanding of spatial data acquisition principles and survey methodologies. - Experience in the production and interpretation of photogrammetry outputs, point clouds and related survey deliverables. - Working knowledge of CAD environments. - Ability to assess project requirements and determine appropriate survey methodologies. We celebrate diversity, including neurodiversity, and believe it enriches our team. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and abilities. If you are an applicant with a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact us at [email protected] At AECOM, we value everyone's unique contributions and perspectives. If you meet some of the requirements above or have transferable skills you believe would benefit us, we would be delighted to hear from you!