UAV Survey Coordinator (TE3)

UAV Survey Coordinator (TE3)

Salary

$80,496.00 - $108,228.00 Annually

Location

Yakima County - Union Gap, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-SCR-51434

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

South Central Region

Opening Date

09/24/2026

Closing Date

10/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Engineer 3 to serve as the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Survey Coordinator in Union Gap, WA. This position provides advanced technical survey and geospatial support for regional Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) survey operations supporting transportation project delivery. The candidate selected for this role will coordinate UAS-based survey data collection, flight planning, pilot readiness, equipment and sensor compliance, field data collection, and integration of aerial survey products into survey, design, construction, right of way, and other project delivery workflows. The UAV Survey Coordinator ensures UAS-derived data is collected, processed, reviewed, documented, and delivered in accordance with WSDOT standards, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 requirements, safety requirements, and professional survey practices.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Coordinate regional UAS/UAV survey operations used to support transportation project delivery, design, construction, right of way, cadastral, fish passage, maintenance, emergency response, and geospatial data collection needs.
• Ensure UAS survey activities comply with FAA Part 107 requirements, WSDOT UAS policy, regional procedures, safety standards, aviation risk management expectations, data security requirements, and applicable equipment compliance requirements.
• Serve as the regional technical coordination point for UAS survey operations.
• Advise project teams and management on appropriate use, limitations, and risks for UAS derived survey and geospatial products.
• Coordinate flight planning, airspace review, pilot assignments, site access, traffic control needs, construction coordination, ground control requirements, launch and recovery areas, flight authorization needs, and UAS field operations.
• Review UAS imagery, LiDAR, point clouds, orthomosaics, digital terrain models, mapping products, and supporting reports for completeness, accuracy, consistency, and usability.
• Oversee UAS fleet tracking, inventory, maintenance coordination, firmware and software updates, battery management, sensor configuration, calibration, service records, replacement planning, and equipment readiness.
• Track pilot readiness and coordinate procurement recommendations.
• Provide technical guidance to survey staff, project teams, management, consultants, and contractors on UAS capabilities, limitations, appropriate applications, data quality, and project risk.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:

• UAS Operations Coordination and Regulatory Compliance: Demonstrated ability to coordinate UAS operations and ensure compliance with FAA regulations, agency policies, safety requirements, aviation risk management practices, and operational procedures while supporting transportation project delivery.
• Survey Mission Planning and Field Operations: Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate, and support complex survey missions by evaluating project requirements, identifying operational constraints, coordinating resources, and ensuring safe and effective field operations in diverse transportation environments.
• Geospatial Data Collection, Analysis, and Quality Assurance: Demonstrated ability to collect, process, review, and validate geospatial and survey data, applying quality control principles, survey standards, coordinate systems, metadata requirements, and accuracy verification procedures to produce reliable deliverables.
• Technical Survey and Geospatial Systems Integration: Demonstrated ability to integrate UAS derived data into survey, mapping, Computer-Aided Design (CAD)/Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE), Geographic Information System (GIS), right of way, design, construction, and project delivery workflows while ensuring consistency, usability, and compliance with established standards.
• Equipment, Asset, and Resource Management: Demonstrated ability to manage technical equipment, sensors, software, inventory, maintenance records, and operational resources to ensure readiness, reliability, compliance, and efficient support of field and office operations.
• Technical Communication and Stakeholder Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical information effectively to diverse audiences, build collaborative working relationships, and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to achieve project objectives and resolve operational issues.
• Leadership, Training, and Continuous Improvement: Demonstrated ability to provide technical leadership, assign and coordinate work, mentor staff, deliver training, develop procedures, and promote standardized practices that improve operational effectiveness, safety, and service delivery.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and demonstrated ability to independently travel to and between project sites, safely operate state-owned vehicles, and transport agency-owned inspection equipment and materials required to perform survey duties and related project activities.
• Ability to work along active highways, construction zones, rights of way, undeveloped terrain, bridges, water crossings, confined access areas, remote launch and recovery locations, and areas with variable weather conditions. Hazards may include moving traffic, heavy equipment, uneven terrain, overhead obstructions, utilities, aviation operational risks, and environmental exposure.
• Ability to work varied hours based on project schedules, construction activities, emergency response, flight conditions, and operational needs. Occasional evening, weekend, holiday, or after-hours work may be required.
• Ability to travel regionally within Central and Eastern Washington is required. Periodic statewide travel may also be required to support project sites, meetings, training, field reviews, construction offices, and coordination with headquarters or local agency partners. Travel may include day trips and occasional overnight assignments.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Certifications: FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, or ability to obtain certification within six months of appointment. Land Surveyor-in-Training certificate, Professional Land Surveyor license, or demonstrated land surveying, geospatial, and CAD/CAE experience.
• UAS Survey Coordination: Experience coordinating UAS survey operations for transportation, construction, right of way, cadastral, mapping, inspection, or emergency response projects.
• UAS Geospatial Data: Experience with UAS photogrammetry, LiDAR, ground control, GNSS, point clouds, orthomosaics, digital terrain models, metadata, and geospatial data QA/QC.
• UAS Fleet & Compliance: Experience maintaining UAS fleet records, pilot qualifications, flight logs, battery records, maintenance documentation, equipment compliance records, and data management records.
• UAS Data Processing & CAD: Experience using Pix4D, Leica Infinity, Virtual Surveyor, OpenRoads Designer, MicroStation, GIS tools, or similar UAS data processing and CAD/CAE software.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at olivia.dietrich@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-SCR-51434 in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

UAS Operations Coordination and Regulatory Compliance: Please select the response that best describes your experience coordinating UAS operations and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, policies, and procedures in support of transportation or other project delivery activities.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience independently coordinating complex UAS operations and ensuring compliance with applicable FAA regulations, agency policies, safety requirements, aviation risk management practices, and operational procedures. I anticipate and address operational, regulatory, and safety risks; coordinate pilots, equipment, schedules, and project needs; and provide guidance to others to support safe and compliant UAS operations.
• Intermediate: I have considerable experience coordinating UAS operations and applying FAA regulations, agency policies, safety requirements, aviation risk management practices, and operational procedures. I identify and address operational or safety risks, coordinate resources and project requirements, and ensure UAS activities are conducted safely and in compliance with applicable requirements with limited direction.
• Basic: I have some experience supporting or coordinating UAS operations and applying FAA regulations, safety requirements, agency policies, or operational procedures. I have participated in identifying operational or safety risks and supporting compliance activities, generally with established guidance or direction.
• Limited: I have limited experience supporting UAS operations or compliance activities. My experience has primarily involved assisting with flight operations, documentation, safety procedures, or other operational tasks under close supervision or established procedures.
• No Experience: I have no experience coordinating UAS operations or ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, policies, and procedures in support of transportation or other project delivery activities.

02

Please briefly describe how you gained your experience coordinating UAS operations. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

03

Survey Mission Planning and Field Operations: Please select the response that best describes your experience planning, coordinating, and supporting survey missions.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience independently planning and coordinating complex survey missions from project requirements through field execution. I evaluate operational constraints, coordinate personnel, equipment, schedules, and other resources, and develop approaches to address changing field conditions and risks while ensuring safe, effective, and reliable operations.
• Intermediate: I have considerable experience planning and coordinating survey missions by evaluating project requirements, identifying operational constraints, and coordinating personnel, equipment, schedules, or other resources. I adapt plans to address field conditions and operational risks and support safe and effective field operations with limited direction.
• Basic: I have some experience supporting the planning and coordination of survey missions or field operations. I have evaluated project requirements, identified operational constraints, and assisted with coordinating resources or addressing field conditions, generally using established procedures or guidance.
• Limited: I have limited experience supporting survey mission planning or field operations. My experience has primarily involved assisting with field activities, equipment, scheduling, or other operational tasks under close supervision or detailed direction.
• No Experience: I have no experience planning, coordinating, or supporting survey missions or field operations.

04

Please briefly describe how you gained your experience planning, coordinating, and supporting survey missions. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

05

Geospatial Data Collection, Analysis, and Quality Assurance: Please select the response that best describes your experience collecting, processing, reviewing, and validating geospatial or survey data.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience independently collecting, processing, analyzing, reviewing, and validating complex geospatial and survey data. I apply survey standards, coordinate systems, metadata requirements, quality control principles, and accuracy verification procedures to identify and resolve data issues and ensure reliable, accurate, and complete deliverables.
• Intermediate: I have considerable experience collecting, processing, reviewing, and validating geospatial or survey data. I apply established survey standards, coordinate systems, metadata requirements, and quality control and accuracy verification procedures to identify and address data issues and produce reliable deliverables with limited direction.
• Basic: I have some experience collecting, processing, reviewing, or validating geospatial or survey data. I have applied established quality control procedures, survey standards, coordinate systems, metadata requirements, or accuracy verification methods, generally with guidance.
• Limited: I have limited experience supporting geospatial or survey data collection, processing, or quality assurance activities. My experience has primarily involved performing routine data tasks or assisting with quality control under close supervision or established procedures.
• No Experience: I have no experience collecting, processing, reviewing, or validating geospatial or survey data.

06

Technical Survey and Geospatial Systems Integration: Please select the response that best describes your experience integrating UAS-derived data into survey, mapping, CAD/CAE, GIS, right of way, design, construction, or other project delivery workflows.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience independently integrating UAS-derived data into multiple survey, mapping, CAD/CAE, GIS, right of way, design, construction, or project delivery workflows. I evaluate data requirements and compatibility, resolve integration issues, and ensure products are consistent, usable, accurate, and compliant with applicable standards.
• Intermediate: I have considerable experience integrating UAS-derived or other geospatial data into survey, mapping, CAD/CAE, GIS, design, construction, or project delivery workflows. I apply established standards and data requirements to ensure consistency and usability and independently address routine integration issues with limited direction.
• Basic: I have some experience integrating UAS-derived or geospatial data into one or more survey, mapping, CAD/CAE, GIS, design, construction, or project delivery workflows. I have applied established standards and procedures to support data consistency, usability, and compliance, generally with guidance.
• Limited: I have limited experience supporting the integration or preparation of UAS-derived or geospatial data for use in project delivery workflows. My experience has primarily involved performing routine data processing, formatting, or transfer tasks under close supervision or established procedures.
• No Experience: I have no experience integrating UAS-derived or geospatial data into survey, mapping, CAD/CAE, GIS, right of way, design, construction, or other project delivery workflows.

07

Do you have any of the following certificates or licenses? Please select all that apply:

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• Land Surveyor-in-Training Certificate
• Professional Land Surveyor License
• None of the above

08

Do you currently possess a valid driver's license?

• Yes
• No

09

Are you willing and able to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds?

• Yes
• No

10

Work is performed in office, field, construction, and aviation operating environments. Field and UAS work may occur along active highways, construction zones, rights of way, undeveloped terrain, bridges, water crossings, confined access areas, remote launch and recovery locations, and areas with variable weather conditions. Hazards may include moving traffic, heavy equipment, uneven terrain, overhead obstructions, utilities, aviation operational risks, and environmental exposure. Are you willing and able to work in these conditions?

• Yes
• No

11

Work hours may vary based on project schedules, construction activities, emergency response, flight conditions, and operational needs. Occasional evening, weekend, holiday, or after-hours work may be required. Are you willing and able to meet these requirements?

• Yes
• No

12

Regional travel within Central and Eastern Washington is required. Periodic statewide travel may also be required to support project sites, meetings, training, field reviews, construction offices, and coordination with headquarters or local agency partners. Travel may include day trips and occasional overnight assignments. Are you willing and able to meet these requirements?

• Yes
• No

13

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

14

If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov