Big Sky Aerial Solutions
Now Hiring: Technical Operations Manager (Full-Time)
Location:
Kalispell, MT (or immediate surrounding area) | Northwest Montana
Work Environment:
Hybrid (local presence required)
Salary:
$75,000–$95,000 DOE + performance/incentive bonus
Company Description Big Sky Aerial Solutions helps utilities and AEC teams better understand and manage their infrastructure through high-precision LiDAR, sUAS, and geospatial services. We turn complex spatial data into clear, usable deliverables that support smarter planning, safer inspections, and more efficient project execution.
From utility inspections and corridor monitoring to mapping projects and 3D modeling, our work supports infrastructure across the Western U.S. Based in Kalispell, Montana, our team is committed to practical innovation, reliable field operations, and data clients can trust.
Role Summary Big Sky Aerial Solutions is seeking a Technical Operations Manager to oversee end-to-end data workflows and lead day-to-day sUAS flight operations. This role ensures all utility and AEC projects move efficiently from mission planning through final deliverables while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and compliance.
This is a hands‑on leadership role focused on technical execution and operational consistency. The Technical Operations Manager will actively fly missions primarily in support of LiDAR and photogrammetry projects, while providing clear oversight and support to other pilots. Utility-related flight work is performed on an as-needed basis to support specific or specialized project requirements.
The role is intentionally structured to balance field execution with operational leadership, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and to a consistent standard—without unnecessary complexity or role overload.
This position has day-to-day authority over, and direct participation in, technical workflows and field operations, with escalation for high-risk, strategic, or client-sensitive decisions.
Key Responsibilities Technical Data Collection & Management
Capture and process aerial and terrestrial LiDAR, photogrammetry, and aerial imagery
Compile point clouds, DEM/DSM surfaces, contours, orthomosaics, and related datasets
Produce, analyze, and clearly present GIS deliverables for client use
Manage in-field and post-collection QA/QC to ensure deliverables meet client standards
Maintain standardized workflows, templates, and technical documentation
Manage data storage, organization, and delivery
sUAS Operations
Fly sUAS missions primarily supporting LiDAR and photogrammetry projects
Support utility-related flight operations on an as-needed or specialized basis
Coordinate mission planning, airspace checks, and flight readiness
Supervise daily pilot operations and ensure adherence to SOPs
Provide in-field leadership, guidance, and quality oversight to pilots
Maintain compliance documentation, flight logs, and maintenance records
Lead safety briefings and post-mission reviews
Act as the primary operational bridge between field crews and the CEO
What Success Looks Like (First 6–12 Months)
Utility and AEC projects delivered on time with consistency and minimal rework
LiDAR and photogrammetry missions executed efficiently with high data quality
Field operations running smoothly without daily CEO involvement
Standardized workflows adopted by pilots and subcontractors
Reduced data turnaround times and fewer QA/QC issues
Clear, proactive communication between field crews, data production, and leadership
Qualifications
3+ years of experience with LiDAR, GIS, and photogrammetry workflows
Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, and Google Workspace
Strong understanding of accuracy standards and QA/QC processes
Familiarity with sUAS mission planning and flight operations
Experience operating enterprise-level drone platforms (DJI, Skydio); 200+ flight hours preferred
Experience operating aerial and terrestrial LiDAR systems
Basic understanding of general photography concepts (composition, depth of field, exposure, ISO, etc.)
Experience with LiDAR processing tools (e.g., TerraScan, LAStools, Global Mapper) preferred
Civil 3D and/or Navisworks experience preferred
Experience in the AEC and utility sectors preferred
Experience with survey fundamentals and coordinate system principles preferred
Additional Requirements
Ability to travel up to 3 months per year
Workload is seasonal, with peak activity from April–October
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Must be based in Kalispell, MT or the immediate surrounding area
Hybrid work environment; company vehicle provided for job-related and client-facing activities
Compensation & Incentives
Competitive base salary ($75,000–$95,000 DOE)
Performance-based incentives tied to delivery timelines, quality standards, operational efficiency, and client growth/satisfaction
Why Join Big Sky Aerial Solutions
Play a central role in a fast-growing, high-performing company
Work on meaningful utility and infrastructure projects
Flexible hybrid work environment
Live and work in a beautiful part of the country
Opportunity to shape and improve operational and technical standards in a growing industry
We value professionalism, accountability, and clear communication — this role is best suited for someone who takes ownership and solves problems independently
How to Apply Send your resume and a brief cover letter with relevant work experience to:
contact@bigskyaerialsolutions.com, Subject: Technical Operations Manager – Application
This position will remain open for approximately 45 days. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Location:
Kalispell, MT (or immediate surrounding area) | Northwest Montana
Work Environment:
Hybrid (local presence required)
Salary:
$75,000–$95,000 DOE + performance/incentive bonus
Company Description Big Sky Aerial Solutions helps utilities and AEC teams better understand and manage their infrastructure through high-precision LiDAR, sUAS, and geospatial services. We turn complex spatial data into clear, usable deliverables that support smarter planning, safer inspections, and more efficient project execution.
From utility inspections and corridor monitoring to mapping projects and 3D modeling, our work supports infrastructure across the Western U.S. Based in Kalispell, Montana, our team is committed to practical innovation, reliable field operations, and data clients can trust.
Role Summary Big Sky Aerial Solutions is seeking a Technical Operations Manager to oversee end-to-end data workflows and lead day-to-day sUAS flight operations. This role ensures all utility and AEC projects move efficiently from mission planning through final deliverables while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and compliance.
This is a hands‑on leadership role focused on technical execution and operational consistency. The Technical Operations Manager will actively fly missions primarily in support of LiDAR and photogrammetry projects, while providing clear oversight and support to other pilots. Utility-related flight work is performed on an as-needed basis to support specific or specialized project requirements.
The role is intentionally structured to balance field execution with operational leadership, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and to a consistent standard—without unnecessary complexity or role overload.
This position has day-to-day authority over, and direct participation in, technical workflows and field operations, with escalation for high-risk, strategic, or client-sensitive decisions.
Key Responsibilities Technical Data Collection & Management
Capture and process aerial and terrestrial LiDAR, photogrammetry, and aerial imagery
Compile point clouds, DEM/DSM surfaces, contours, orthomosaics, and related datasets
Produce, analyze, and clearly present GIS deliverables for client use
Manage in-field and post-collection QA/QC to ensure deliverables meet client standards
Maintain standardized workflows, templates, and technical documentation
Manage data storage, organization, and delivery
sUAS Operations
Fly sUAS missions primarily supporting LiDAR and photogrammetry projects
Support utility-related flight operations on an as-needed or specialized basis
Coordinate mission planning, airspace checks, and flight readiness
Supervise daily pilot operations and ensure adherence to SOPs
Provide in-field leadership, guidance, and quality oversight to pilots
Maintain compliance documentation, flight logs, and maintenance records
Lead safety briefings and post-mission reviews
Act as the primary operational bridge between field crews and the CEO
What Success Looks Like (First 6–12 Months)
Utility and AEC projects delivered on time with consistency and minimal rework
LiDAR and photogrammetry missions executed efficiently with high data quality
Field operations running smoothly without daily CEO involvement
Standardized workflows adopted by pilots and subcontractors
Reduced data turnaround times and fewer QA/QC issues
Clear, proactive communication between field crews, data production, and leadership
Qualifications
3+ years of experience with LiDAR, GIS, and photogrammetry workflows
Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, and Google Workspace
Strong understanding of accuracy standards and QA/QC processes
Familiarity with sUAS mission planning and flight operations
Experience operating enterprise-level drone platforms (DJI, Skydio); 200+ flight hours preferred
Experience operating aerial and terrestrial LiDAR systems
Basic understanding of general photography concepts (composition, depth of field, exposure, ISO, etc.)
Experience with LiDAR processing tools (e.g., TerraScan, LAStools, Global Mapper) preferred
Civil 3D and/or Navisworks experience preferred
Experience in the AEC and utility sectors preferred
Experience with survey fundamentals and coordinate system principles preferred
Additional Requirements
Ability to travel up to 3 months per year
Workload is seasonal, with peak activity from April–October
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Must be based in Kalispell, MT or the immediate surrounding area
Hybrid work environment; company vehicle provided for job-related and client-facing activities
Compensation & Incentives
Competitive base salary ($75,000–$95,000 DOE)
Performance-based incentives tied to delivery timelines, quality standards, operational efficiency, and client growth/satisfaction
Why Join Big Sky Aerial Solutions
Play a central role in a fast-growing, high-performing company
Work on meaningful utility and infrastructure projects
Flexible hybrid work environment
Live and work in a beautiful part of the country
Opportunity to shape and improve operational and technical standards in a growing industry
We value professionalism, accountability, and clear communication — this role is best suited for someone who takes ownership and solves problems independently
How to Apply Send your resume and a brief cover letter with relevant work experience to:
contact@bigskyaerialsolutions.com, Subject: Technical Operations Manager – Application
This position will remain open for approximately 45 days. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
#J-18808-Ljbffr