Senior Drone Pilot - FPLAir One
Florida Power & Light Company, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy and the largest electric utility in the U.S., seeks a highly skilled and experienced Senior Drone Pilot to join the FPLAir One team. The position is located in West Palm Beach, FL. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the FPLAir One Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), ensuring dependable electricity for over 12 million Floridians.
Responsibilities:
- Ensure safety during all phases of flight operations.
- Verify aircraft airworthiness before each operation.
- Analyze weather conditions and potential hazards along the intended flight path.
- Utilize Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM) and Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles to ensure safe and successful operations.
- Transport aircraft safely using a truck and trailer setup.
- Create and maintain documentation related to flight operations.
- Operate the 1800lb aircraft within a closed traffic pattern and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) in coordination with non-participating aircraft.
- Perform remote operations, including preflight checks, weather assessment, logbook compliance, and ensuring airworthiness.
- Maintain logbook compliance.
- Collaborate effectively as part of a team.
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
- Associate's degree or equivalent experience.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.
- Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
- FAA Part 107 Certificate.
- FAA Private Pilot Certificate (Part 61 or 141).
- FAA Medical Certificate.
- Must possess civilian/military aeronautical experience and proficiency requirements as per 14 CFR 61.129 for Commercial Pilot License (single-engine airplane).
- Ability to attain Part 61 Commercial Pilot License within 6 months of onboarding.
- Familiarity with Federal Aviation Regulations/Aeronautical Information Manual (FAR/AIM).
- Experience with Safety Management Systems and principles of Aviation Safety and Operational Risk Management.
- Ability to obtain a Class A Commercial Driver’s License to transport and handle UAS equipment safely.
- Must become a Terso-C Qualified Pilot within 6 months of onboarding, requiring 4-8 weeks of training with potential travel.
Desired Skills:
- Experience with advanced UAS operations, including beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).
- Knowledge or certification in Crew Resource Management (CRM).
- Instructor, training, or development experience with UAS operations.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Aviation, or a related field.
Florida Power & Light Company is committed to providing clean, affordable, and reliable energy. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a dynamic team and shape the future of energy.
NextEra Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.