Drone as First Responder Operator

Description

Job Title:  Drone as First Responder (DFR) Operator 

Location:  Remote/Travel-Based – Must reside in the DMV area (DC, Maryland, or Virginia)

Employment Type:  Part-Time/On-Call

Travel:  Up to 100%

About Chartis Federal

Chartis Federal is a premier systems engineering and integration firm specializing in mission-critical IT and communications solutions for law enforcement, homeland security, and defense. As a trusted prime contractor with over $160 million in task order awards, we operate across 22 states and support essential government missions worldwide.

Our commitment to excellence has fueled our year-over-year growth, earning us recognition twice as a Washington Technology FAST 50 company and securing a place on the Inc. 5000 list for five consecutive years. At Chartis Federal, our mission is clear: keeping heroes safe and connected—on the battlefield, on the border, and in our backyards.

Position Overview

We are seeking skilled and mission-ready UAS Operator to join our Rooftop Operations Travel Team in support of Drone as First Responder (DFR) missions. In this role, you will deploy on short notice to operate advanced drones—such as the Skydio X10—in direct coordination with public safety agencies, delivering real-time aerial intelligence to support emergency response efforts.

As part of the on-call travel team, you will be assigned to projects ranging anywhere from one up to six months in durations, requiring extended travel and flexibility. This position plays a critical role in enhancing situational awareness and public safety through reliable, responsive drone operations. 

Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate drones in DFR missions while ensuring safe and effective flight operations in compliance with FAA regulations and company protocols.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections, including routine maintenance and system checks.
• Rapidly deploy drones from rooftop locations in response to live mission alerts, often in dynamic or time-sensitive environments. 
• Collaborate with Skydio and other partners to support system integration, troubleshooting, and optimization of drone systems.
• Collaborate directly with emergency response teams to plan and execute drone missions efficiently, adapting quickly to dynamic scenarios.
• Respond to mission requests and deploy drones quickly from designated rooftop sites to provide real-time aerial intelligence.
• Maintain accurate flight logs, mission records, and incident reports in accordance with operational standards. 
• Communicate effectively with team members, public safety officials, and other stakeholders during operations.
• Stay informed of evolving FAA guidelines, drone technologies, and best practices in UAS operations.  

Requirements

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification (required).
• Proven experience in UAS operations, preferably with DFR or similar mission-critical applications.
• Familiarity with Skydio drones and autonomous flight systems is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of FAA regulations and airspace management.
• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and respond to urgent mission requests.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Availability for flexible, on-call scheduling, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Willingness and ability to travel extensively—up to 100% travel required. 
• Ability to travel up to 100%
• Must be able to pass a criminal background check. 

Preferred Requirements:

• Experience working with public safety agencies or emergency response teams.
• Technical skills in troubleshooting and maintaining UAS hardware and software.
• Background in rooftop or urban drone operations.
• Familiarity with DFR program frameworks and real-time data transmission workflows, 

At Chartis Federal, we believe in fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and innovation while supporting critical national security missions. Join us in shaping the future of government contracting and national security solutions.

Chartis Federal is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employs qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other classification proscribed under applicable law. We participate in E-Verify.