UAS Operations Specialist

Closes: January 28, 2026

Job Description
The UAS Operations Specialist job family plays a critical role in supporting Avista’s utility operations by leveraging Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for aerial inspections, mapping, diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and data collection. These roles are structured across three progressive levels, each increasing in technical complexity and responsibility. Specialists are responsible for planning and executing UAS missions across Avista’s service territory and work closely with internal teams—including GIS, engineering, environmental, and operations—to ensure safe, compliant, and effective drone operations that align with organizational goals.

We are currently hiring up two positions within our Washington service territory, with opportunities in Spokane, Pullman, and Clarkston.

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  Execute specialized and high-risk UAS missions for inspections, mapping, monitoring, and diagnostics.
  
  


• Operate Group 1–3 UAS platforms in diverse field conditions across Avista’s service territory.


• Plan missions including site assessments, airspace analysis, safety briefings, and risk management.


• Ensure compliance with FAA Part 107 and internal safety protocols.


• Capture and process aerial data for infrastructure, environmental, and asset management needs.


• Integrate UAS data into GIS and enterprise systems; collaborate with engineering, operations, and environmental teams.


• Mentor junior pilots and lead advanced UAS training sessions.


• Conduct internal audits and maintain adherence to FAA and company-specific policies.


• Support technology integration, sensor evaluation, and payload optimization.


• Develop SOPs, technical documentation, and operational guidelines for utility applications.

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  Associates degree (2 years’ college) Survey, Geography, GIS or related degree preferred.
  
  


• Minimum 2 years of related experience required, experience operating Group 1–3 UAS in utility, commercial, or public agency settings preferred.


• Some knowledge in mission planning, aeronautical decision-making, and safe drone operations under varied environmental conditions.


• Basic understanding of the utilization of flight planning software to support mission preparation, including route design, airspace analysis, and operational planning.


• Experience operating fixed-wing and multirotor drones for inspection, mapping, and data acquisition.


• Must possess situational awareness and communication skills; able to work independently in field-based settings.


• Clear understanding of GIS tools and payloads such as EO/IR, LiDAR, thermal, and multispectral sensors preferred.


• Must be comfortable working outdoors in changing weather and terrain.


• Valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate within 60 days of hire.

Hiring Range: Hiring Range: $24.30 to $31.11

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  Provides feedback and advanced technical assistance to other pilots and internal stakeholders with drone applications.
  
  


• Frequently conducts specialized flights with higher risk or skills needed.


• Engages with internal clients to understand data needs and tailor flight missions accordingly.


• Performs basic post-processing of imagery and data for reporting.
  

Hiring Range: $27.67 to $35.55 

• 
  
  Provides feedback and advanced technical assistance to other pilots and internal stakeholders with drone applications, assists the UAS program manager with their duties as needed.
  
  


• Regularly conducts specialized flights with higher risk or skills needed.


• Mentor junior pilots and leads training sessions on advanced UAS operations.
  

Hiring Range: $31.44 to $40.56 

Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Hybrid work options are available for this role. The successful candidate will be required to work at least 3 days in person per week including Mondays and Tuesdays with additional day(s) determined by the manager. This position will be located at either our headquarters in Spokane, Washington or our local offices in Pullman and Clarkston, Washington. 

To Apply
We encourage you to apply as many of our positions have multiple levels to account for an incoming employee’s various knowledge, skills, and experience.

Complete an online application and attach your resume and cover letter to your profile. All documents must be attached to your application at the time of submitting your application for review. No documents can be attached after you click "Submit".

At Avista, our employees are the foundation of our success. Their dedication drives the value we deliver to our customers and communities. That’s why we prioritize the physical, mental, and financial well-being of our team members and their families.

We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards program designed to support every stage of life and career. Our offerings include:

• Affordable healthcare options including medical, dental, and vision coverage


• Retirement benefits with an enhanced 401(k) match


• Incentive programs rewarding performance and contributions


• Competitive paid time off including holidays, personal days, and vacation


• Life and disability insurance for added peace of mind


• Wellness resources supporting mental and physical health


• Education and development support including tuition assistance


• Community giving programs encouraging employee engagement and impact


• Other optional benefits from Legal insurance, Pet insurance, and more (Eligibility subject to Bargaining Unit affiliation)

To learn more, please visit our benefits website at https://avistabenefits.com/.

We are committed to maintaining a competitive and equitable total rewards package that attracts and retains a diverse, skilled, and engaged workforce.

In compliance with state laws, we provide the full salary range for each position, along with the typical hiring range based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. The full salary range for this position is $24.30 to $49.68 per hour. Questions regarding compliance with this requirement can be directed to [email protected].

Pre-employment screening requirements
This position is considered safety sensitive by Avista Corporation for which impairment while working presents a substantial risk.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a drug test (including cannabis) background check and motor vehicle records review.   

Avista’s Commitment to Equal Opportunity
Avista is a safe, inclusive workplace for people of all backgrounds, and we are committed to Equal Opportunity Employment. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, sensory, mental or physical disability (unless based upon a bona fide occupational qualification), Veteran status or any other classification protected by nondiscrimination laws.

Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you require any special accommodations to participate fully in our recruitment process. Avista will make reasonable accommodation to assist a qualified person with a disability in the job application, interview process, and to perform the essential functions of the job whenever possible, where undue hardship would not be created for Avista. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like assistance.