GIS Analyst I

Title: GIS Analyst I / UAS Pilot Aerial Operations Center
Client: Southern Company Services
Location: Atlanta, GA 30341
Contract: 3 Years

Job Summary

We are seeking a GIS Analyst I / UAS Pilot to support the Aerial Operations Center (AOC) by operating unmanned aerial systems (UAS), coordinating airspace activities, supporting flight scheduling, and assisting with aerial data collection and analysis.

This role combines FAA Part 107 UAS operations, GIS/remote sensing, airspace coordination, customer support, contractor coordination, and data analytics. The ideal candidate will have strong technical, communication, and problem-solving skills and be comfortable supporting both operational and administrative activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate UAS for aerial inspections, surveys, and data collection.

• Serve as an FAA Remote Pilot-in-Command (RPIC).

• Plan and execute flight missions in compliance with FAA, safety, and operational requirements.

• Perform pre-flight and post-flight UAS inspections.

• Evaluate weather conditions and adjust flight plans as needed.

• Collect, process, and quality-check aerial imagery, video, and sensor data.

• Maintain accurate flight logs, mission records, and operational reports.

• Troubleshoot and perform routine maintenance on UAS equipment.

• Support UAS pilot training and qualification activities.

• Assist with development of UAS standards, procedures, and training materials.

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

• Support field operations and storm restoration activities.

Aerial Operations Center Support

• Coordinate and support company airspace management and deconfliction activities.

• Provide dispatch authorization and scheduling support for:

  • UAS pilots

  • UAS operations

  • Aerial contractors

  • Manned aircraft operations

• Coordinate with contractors, Supply Chain, and business stakeholders.

• Support emergency operations and coordinate with FAA, ATC, and emergency agencies as required.

• Use data analytics and reporting to improve aerial operations performance.

• Provide help-desk style customer support for flight scheduling, technical questions, and airspace authorizations.

Required Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required.

• Strong knowledge of FAA regulations, UAS standards, weather, airspace operations, and airspace authorizations.

• Valid driver's license.

• Strong understanding of UAS technology, flight planning software, and data-processing tools.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong attention to detail.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Willingness to travel and support field operations as needed.

• Ability to work non-traditional hours when required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aviation, Geospatial Science, GIS, or related field.

• Experience with UAS operations in the energy or utility sector.

• Knowledge of GIS, geospatial data, and remote sensing.

• Experience with data analysis, reporting, and operational metrics.

• FAA Part 61 Pilot License is a plus.

• Experience coordinating aerial operations, contractors, or emergency response activities.

Work Environment

• Primarily based indoors at the Aerial Operations Center.

• Occasional outdoor work in varying weather conditions.

• Approximate schedule: 75% day / 25% night, depending on operational needs.

• Travel to project or field sites may be required.

Key Skills

UAS | Drone Operations | FAA Part 107 | GIS | Remote Sensing | RPIC | Airspace Management | Flight Planning | Data Analytics | Aerial Inspections | Geospatial Data | Contractor Coordination | Storm Restoration | FAA Regulations | Customer Support