Technical Lead, Aerial Drones

LOCATION: Baltimore, MD | Travel Required

Image Engineering was founded as a company that pushes boundaries, develops new ideas through design and fabrication, and is a leader in the visual display and special effects industry. We are comprised of a team of artists, engineers, event producers, fabricators and creative thinkers.

We have worked all over the United States completing thousands of projects in the field of creative multimedia shows for clients such as Paul McCartney, the Trans–Siberian Orchestra, the Rolling Stones, Lady Gaga, American Idol, America’s Got Talent and multiple professional sports franchises in the NFL, NBA and NHL. We have also created permanent and temporary interactive installations for world–class venues including the Staples Center and The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Our strength lies in the broad range of techniques and custom special effects solutions we use to create first class spectaculars including laser effects, video projection and mapping, pyrotechnics, architectural lighting installs, custom constructed sets and bespoke engineered special effect solutions for live events and permanent applications.

Role Summary: 

The Technical Lead / Drone Pilot will be responsible for the pre-deployment preparation, technical execution, flight operations, and onsite leadership of synchronized aerial drone light shows. This role requires strong technical skills, FAA compliance knowledge, and operational expertise to ensure safe and successful performances.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate as Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC), piloting a fleet of synchronized, illuminated aerial drones during rehearsals and live performances to create visual displays at live events.
• Operate drone fleet in full compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and company SOPs.
• Lead onsite technical setup and system validation, including aircraft deployment, charging infrastructure, ground control systems, and network connectivity.
• Conduct pre-flight inspections, system checks, and readiness assessments to ensure aircraft, firmware, and mission parameters are fully validated.
• Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and communications issues under field conditions.
• Direct and supervise onsite technical crew, ensuring proper handling, safety procedures, and operational discipline.
• Collaborate with creative, design, and production teams to execute choreographed flight plans and show objectives.
• Perform site-specific risk assessments, including airspace considerations, obstacle analysis, and crowd safety buffers.
• Coordinate with internal compliance personnel regarding waivers, authorizations, airspace permissions, and local jurisdiction requirements.
• Maintain responsibility for field asset management, including transport, storage, battery care, and equipment protection.
• Document operational events, anomalies, and post-show maintenance or incident reports.
• Champion continuous improvement in technical reliability, workflow efficiency, and safety practices.
• Assist in training new drone pilots, sharing your expertise and best practices for safe drone operations.

Knowledge and Abilities:

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required)
• Strong technical understanding of sUAS platforms, flight behavior, and troubleshooting methodology.
• Ability to maintain composure and make sound operational decisions in live event environments.
• Effective leadership, communication, and team coordination skills.
• High attention to detail and safety-critical thinking.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and rapidly changing operational conditions.

Education / Experience Requirements:

• Associate’s degree or higher in aviation, engineering, electronics, technical theater, or a related technical discipline or equivalent practical experience.
• Demonstrated experience operating drones in commercial, technical, or live-event environments.
• Experience with mission planning, system diagnostics, or field technical operations strongly preferred.
• Prior leadership or crew supervision experience preferred.

Preferred Experience:

• Familiarity with drone show or swarm management platforms (e.g., Verge Aero or similar systems).
• Knowledge of FAA night operations, airspace coordination, and waiver processes.
• Background in live event production, entertainment technology, or technical installations.
• Experience with networking, RF behavior, wireless communications, or interference mitigation.
• Battery management, charging systems, and field power distribution experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and common operational / documentation tools.

Company Benefits:

• Aetna Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• Flexible Time Off Program
• Paid Holidays
• John Hancock 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• Aflac Supplemental Insurance
• Robust Employee Assistance Program
• Dependent Care FSA Program
• ...and more!