Role: GIS Specialist
Rate: up to $75,000 salary to start
Term: Permanent Full Time Hire
Start date: Immediate
Department: Data & Analytics
Reports To: Technology / GIS Lead
Location: Lafayette, Louisiana Onsite, 5 days/week (hybrid potential after successful onboarding)
FLSA Status: Exempt
Role Overview
The GIS Specialist is a core technical role responsible for transforming raw drone imagery and sensor data into high-accuracy geospatial deliverables. You will own the processing and analysis stage of our data pipeline producing orthomosaics, point clouds, 3D models, thermal maps, and analytical reports that feed directly into annotation and quality control. This is a production-focused role for someone who thrives on technical precision, large datasets, and tight deadlines. You will play a key part in scaling Drone Institute s ability to deliver consistent, client-trusted intelligence.
Key Responsibilities
Data Processing & Production
Process raw UAV imagery (RGB, thermal, LiDAR, multispectral) into client-ready products including orthomosaics, DSMs/DTMs, point clouds, thermal maps, and 3D models. Operate industry-standard photogrammetry software such as Pix4D, Agisoft Metashape, WebODM, and DroneDeploy. Perform first-pass quality control, optimize processing parameters, and manage daily processing queues to meet aggressive production timelines.
Geospatial Analysis & Client Deliverables
Conduct spatial analysis and generate professional reports using GIS platforms such as ArcGIS Pro and QGIS. Produce specialized deliverables including roof condition assessments, tank inspections, solar site evaluations, and infrastructure surveys. Apply proprietary scoring and segmentation methodologies while creating custom maps and visualizations tailored to client specifications.
Database & Asset Management
Maintain organized project databases, file structures, and metadata standards. Manage data across cloud platforms while enforcing naming conventions and archival protocols. Track assets through the full project lifecycle.
Technical Development & Innovation
Contribute to the continuous improvement of processing workflows and SOPs. Evaluate and test new software, tools, and automation techniques. Support integration of AI/ML tools into the data pipeline.
Collaboration
Work closely with Mission Coordinators to ensure capture parameters support high-quality processing. Clearly communicate technical concepts to non-technical team members and clients. Support client calls and presentations as the technical subject matter expert.
Qualifications
Required
Bachelor s degree in GIS, Geography, Geomatics, Remote Sensing, or a related field plus 1 3 years of professional experience in GIS, remote sensing, or geospatial data processing. Must have proficiency with at least one major GIS platform (ArcGIS Pro or QGIS), hands-on experience with photogrammetry software (Pix4D, Agisoft Metashape, or similar), strong knowledge of coordinate systems, projections, and geospatial data formats, plus exceptional attention to detail and ability to consistently meet deadlines.
Preferred
Master s degree in a relevant field, FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, experience processing thermal/LiDAR/multispectral datasets, Python or R scripting for geospatial automation, point cloud classification experience, background in commercial roofing/energy infrastructure/industrial inspection, and familiarity with open-source geospatial tools.
Ideal Candidate
You are technically sharp, process-driven, and obsessive about accuracy. You enjoy solving complex data challenges, continuously improving workflows, and taking pride in producing work that clients rely on for high-value decisions. You re comfortable working independently while staying aligned with team production goals.
What We Offer
Competitive salary, opportunity to work with cutting-edge drone technology and proprietary processing tools, direct impact on a fast-growing aerial intelligence company, professional development and learning opportunities, and a collaborative, high-performance team environment.
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