Engineering Specialist I – sUAS

Freeport-McMoRan

Engineering Specialist I managing sUAS operations at a copper mining complex in Morenci, AZ. Providing technical advice for engineering projects and conducting safety and compliance tasks.

Posted 4/18/2026full-timeMorenci • Arizona • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $80,000 - $110,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Assist in providing technical advice and guidance for designated engineering projects and programs at the assigned site
Work with a team to plan, execute, and process photogrammetry and other remote viewing operations with Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS)
Work involves sUAS operations including mission planning, conducting safety briefings, filing relevant documentation, maintaining equipment, and maintaining current proficiency with systems
Assist in the review, investigation, and development of recommendations for assigned engineering projects
Plan, execute, and monitor sUAS flights in compliance with FAA Part 107 and company safety standards
Conduct pre‑ and post‑flight inspections
Process imagery and sensor data to generate orthomosaics, 3D models, and topographical maps
Operate OEM aircraft and file required FAA documentation
Collaborate with engineering and survey teams
Compute volumes and reconcile against production data
Support small to medium construction, expansion, or modification projects
Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on sUAS platforms and sensors
Develop a working knowledge of applicable regulations
Perform other duties as required

Requirements

What you’ll need

High school diploma or GED AND 4 years of engineering experience OR Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or engineering discipline
Must hold an airline transport, commercial, private, recreational, sport pilot, or remote pilot small UAS airman certificate from the FAA
Additional certifications or licensure appropriate to the job may be required
Must hold a valid US driver’s license
Skilled in resolving day‑to‑day questions and problems regarding equipment, materials, methods, and procedures
Ability to conduct preventive maintenance and develop maintenance training material
Skilled in safely using, maintaining, and training repair of specialized equipment including GIS and GPS mapping techniques
Ability to assess site processes, equipment, and infrastructure and incorporate them into action plans and training materials
Ability to use Microsoft Office, Pix4D, AutoCAD, Google Earth Pro, and sUAS software such as FalconView
Ability to perform, implement, and train airspace analysis
Ability to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions
Skilled in following safety practices and recognizing hazards
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
Skilled in budget preparation, monitoring, and administration
50% percent travel nationally and internationally
Preferred Qualifications: One year of licensed sUAS experience in mining or construction

Benefits

Comp & perks

Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits
Company-paid life and disability insurance
401(k) plan with employer contribution/match
Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave
Tuition assistance
Employee Assistance Program
Discounted insurance plans for pet, auto, home and vehicle
Internal progression opportunities

ATS Keywords

✓ Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

photogrammetrysUAS operationsmission planningpre-flight inspectionspost-flight inspectionsimagery processingsensor data processingpreventive maintenanceairspace analysisbudget preparation

Soft Skills

problem solvingcommunicationcollaborationtraining developmentsafety awarenesshazard recognitionorganizational skillstechnical advicemonitoringexecution

Certifications

FAA remote pilot small UAS airman certificateairline transport pilot certificatecommercial pilot certificateprivate pilot certificaterecreational pilot certificatesport pilot certificatevalid US driver's licenseadditional relevant certificationsGEDBachelor's degree in scientific or engineering discipline