Duke Energy Corporation

Director Unmanned Aerial Systems

Duke Energy Corporation • $120K — $150K *
Charlotte, NC 28269In-Person
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or Aeronautical field
  • Minimum 7 years related work experience in UAS or aviation
  • Valid FAA Private Pilot License
  • Certified under FAA Part 107
  • 10 years of experience in Aviation, Engineering, or Project/Program Management
  • 3 years in a leadership role managing a diverse team

Responsibilities

  • Lead UAS team members, enhancing collaboration and engagement
  • Manage design and deployment of UAS solutions for diverse enterprise needs
  • Create, present and implement a detailed roadmap for the UAS program
  • Represent Duke Energy on UAS-related committees and conferences
  • Establish policies and procedures for effective program management

Benefits

  • Hybrid work model allowing flexibility between onsite and remote locations
  • Opportunity for involvement in innovative drone technology in a progressive energy sector
  • Large team environment, promoting collaboration across Duke Energy
  • Exposure to regulatory bodies and industry trends through external engagements
  • Significant role in shaping future programs and technologies within the company
Full Job Description
Job Summary

The Director Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) leads all facets of Duke Energy's UAS organization, both strategic and operational, with ultimate responsibility for the safe, secure and efficient operation of all company operated and contracted drones, in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements. Drones maximize the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of each business organization that the UAS organization supports. The Director is responsible for internal (Aviation Services) drone operations and for the training, governance, and oversight for all Duke Energy qualified UAS pilots in other business units. The Director is responsible for a wide range of highly complex programs/projects and is single point accountable for drone operations. This position promotes operational excellence and introduces business transformation by taking a multi-disciplinary, end-to-end continuous improvement approach to strategic planning. They provide supervisory, administrative, technical and contract logistic support including responsibility for cost (budget), schedule, and overall performance. The ability to work across all organizations and Duke Energy territories is paramount. The Director will be an advocate and a promoter of the technology across the enterprise. This includes regular communications with Senior Leadership. Progression to this level is restricted on the basis of business need. Staff size is maintained at appropriate levels to meet the mission requirements of the Duke Energy Enterprise, generally in the range of 40-50 individuals, with a mix of FTEs and CWs.

Responsibilities

Leads the UAS Team activity, by engaging current team members or adding team members, as required, from appropriate areas. Example: Legal, Risk, Emerging Tech.
  • Ensures mutual understanding of each team members' role and responsibilities.
  • Sets project goals and expectations clearly to align the project team.
  • Establish and maintain effective communications among all UAS Team Members and project stakeholders.
  • Coordinates work within work groups and with other Duke Energy departments and regions in multiple states, to include outside organizations (e.g. regulatory agencies, suppliers and contractors).
  • Develops UAS team members


Manage the design and deployment of UAS solutions for Enterprise needs.
  • The position manages a portfolio of projects that involves testing or integration of unmanned systems.
  • Acts as a liaison between business units and the manned aviation flight department, while simplifying and promoting access to and utilization of UAS technologies into the Enterprise.
  • Manage UAS for a wide variety of business applications. The UAS Manager will have the lead role in delivering solutions to our Business Unit customers.
  • The Manager has the responsibility to tailor a solution with the right set of hardware, software, and data services to help Business Units gather data and generate information for operations with the goal to save money, increase data collection and improve safety.
  • The UAS Manager understands and defines requirements, design solutions, and manage system implementation and delivery.
  • Oversight of the UAS training program and other UAS contracts/contractors.


Responsible for creating and presenting a 1 year, 3 year, 5 year roadmap for the goals, expansion, management and coordination of the UAS program.
  • Reporting to management: statistics, successes/failures, actual-to-budget variances, etc.
  • Determining and negotiating the types of UAS and services to be provided (and NOT provided) by the program.
  • Establishing the program structure, including standards, budget, metrics, reporting, compliance and enforcement within the guidelines of the policy.
  • Understanding and incorporating compliance with regulations into all program processes and procedures (including internal to DE, privacy, emergency response, etc.)


External Engagement, including representing Duke Energy on any UAS conferences, committees, workgroups, regulatory bodies.
  • Creates policies, procedures, and other required documentation for management of the program.


Basic/Required Qualifications
  • Bachelors degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Aeronautical
  • Minimum 7 years related work experience
  • FAA Private Pilot License
  • FAA Part 107


Desired Qualifications
  • Excellent people and leadership skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work with all levels of Duke Energy leadership
    • Ability to influence future direction of programs within the company
    • Ability to influence future trends in the industry
  • Advanced aviation skills (endorsements, instrument rating, etc.)
  • Master's Degree, Professional Engineering License, Professional Land Surveyor License, GIS certification
  • Ability to develop consensus across multiple stakeholders with varying interests
  • Understanding/application of data and analytics
  • Marketing and public relations acumen
  • Business acumen (profit, loss, and cost control)
  • Utility specific operations, construction, or project management experience
  • Strong expertise in project management, decision making, critical thinking, and problem solving.


Working Conditions
  • Hybrid Mobility Classification - Work will be performed from both remote and onsite locations after the onboarding period. However, hybrid employees should live within a reasonable daily commute to a Duke Energy facility.
  • Office and field requirements.


Specific Requirements
  • 10 years in Aviation, Engineering, or Project/Program Management.
  • 3 years as a people leader.
  • FAA Private Pilot License
  • FAA Part 107
  • Demonstrated strong communications capabilities, particularly with senior management and external to the organization
  • Experience in supervising, coordinating, and reviewing the work of a diverse work group both inside and outside the enterprise
  • Effectively negotiates with others to reach agreement which will meet the organization's needs and those of the Company.
  • Ability to conduct effective meetings.
  • Ability to show sensitivity and concern for the needs/views of other teammates; treats other employees with respect and provides leadership, oversight, delegation, and coordination.
  • Extensive knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations, airspace, weather, and aircraft performance.
  • Ability to control costs within a defined budget for operations.


#LI-ZM1

#LI-Hybrid

Travel Requirements
15-25%

Relocation Assistance Provided (as applicable)
No

Represented/Union Position
No

Visa Sponsored Position
No. This is not a Visa Sponsored Position. This role requires the ability to work lawfully in the U.S. without employment-based immigration sponsorship, now or in the future.

Please note that in order to be considered for this position, you must possess all of the basic/required qualifications.

About Duke Energy Corporation

Duke Energy is one of the largest energy holding companies in the United States. Its Electric Utilities and Infrastructure business unit serves approximately 7.5 million customers located in six states in the Southeast and Midwest.

Duke Energy Corporation Careers

Join the dynamic team at Duke Energy Corporation, a leader in sustainable energy, where innovation, leadership, and diversity drive success. As one of the largest electric power holding companies in the United States, there has never been a better time to explore job opportunities with us. Work You’ll Do At Duke Energy, your work will directly contribute to shaping the future of energy across the nation. Our commitment to sustainable, reliable power is matched by our dedication to our team's professional growth and development. Lead in an Environment Focused on Innovation and Sustainability Duke Energy is at the forefront of integrating renewable energy and cutting-edge technology to meet tomorrow's energy needs. Join a team where your innovative ideas can flourish and where you are part of leading the charge toward a cleaner energy future. Transform Your Career with Unmatched Opportunities With a wide range of career paths, from engineering to customer service, Duke Energy offers job opportunities that cater to diverse skills and ambitions. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, you'll find a culture that supports your career aspirations. Internship Programs and Professional Development Start your career journey through Duke Energy’s internship programs designed to give you real-world experience and insights into the energy sector. Our programs help bridge the gap between academic learning and professional employment, enhancing your resume and preparing you for future hiring opportunities. Be Part of a Great Team Duke Energy’s commitment to diversity and inclusive culture makes it a great place to work. Our team is our strength, and we thrive on the creativity and different perspectives that each member brings. Enjoy benefits that support both your professional and personal life, as you collaborate with talented professionals dedicated to making a difference. Future-Proof Your Career Advance your career with Duke Energy’s extensive training and development programs. From leadership development to technical skills enhancement, we provide the tools you need to succeed. Our commitment to your growth ensures that your career is always moving forward. Explore Discover how Duke Energy is leading the way in renewable energy solutions and how our workforce is pivotal in driving this change. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Ready to start your journey with Duke Energy? Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and join a company that values what you bring to the table. SEARCH DUKE ENERGY JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Explore the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Duke Energy Corporation. By joining Duke Energy, you’re not just getting a job—you’re gaining a career where you can truly make a difference.
Learn more about Duke Energy Corporation
Size
27,605 employees
Market Cap
$79 billion
Industry
Energy & Utilities
Net Income
$1.3 billion
5 Year Trend
+2%
Revenue
$23.8 billion
NASDAQ
DUK
* Ladders Estimates

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