Job Summary
Key Responsibilities
Drone Operations
- Conduct UAV flights for a variety of applications including stockpile volume measurements, infrastructure inspections, tailings dam monitoring, and environmental audits.
- Ensure flights are executed safely, accurately, and in accordance with aviation regulations and internal operational protocols.
Data Collection & Processing
- Capture high-resolution aerial imagery and LiDAR data where applicable.
- Process drone-captured data using relevant photogrammetry and mapping software (e.g., Pix4D, Drone Deploy, Agisoft Metashape) for use in mine planning, environmental compliance, and operational reporting.
- Generate orthomosaics, DEMs, 3D models, and survey-grade maps for internal stakeholders.
Equipment Management
- Maintain and service UAV hardware and associated equipment.
- Conduct pre-flight checks, calibrations, and troubleshoot any technical issues to ensure operational readiness.
- Ensure all drone operations are logged, batteries are charged and maintained, and firmware/software is up to date.
- Regulatory & Safety Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Part 101 regulations.
- Uphold all health and safety policies on site during drone operations.
Collaboration & Reporting
- Work closely with surveyors, environmental officers, mine planners, and geologists to support cross-functional data requirements.
- Compile reports, flight logs, and analysis summaries for each operation.
- Communicate effectively with line managers and support accurate integration of UAV data into mining workflows.
Qualifications & Certifications
- Minimum Education: Matric certificate (Grade 12) required; post-matric technical or GIS qualification advantageous.
- Licensing:
- Valid Remote Pilot License (RPL) as per SACAA Part 101 requirements.
- Valid Class 3 or higher medical certificate.
- Valid ROC association or affiliation (or ability to operate under a company ROC).
- Experience: 3–5 years of commercial drone flying experience, ideally in mining, construction, surveying, or agriculture.
- Experience in mapping, volumetric analysis, and photogrammetry is essential.
Technical Skills
- Proficient in operating a range of professional drones (e.g., DJI Matrice, Phantom 4 RTK, Mavic 3 Enterprise).
- Strong skills in photogrammetry, GIS, and mapping software such as Pix4D, DroneDeploy, ArcGIS, or Global Mapper.
- Solid computer literacy (MS Excel, Word, data backup procedures).
- Ability to interpret and work with 3D models, CAD overlays, and mine plans.
- Willingness to adapt to AI-driven drone software and data analysis tools.
Remuneration
- Salary Range: R300,000 – R550,000 per annum (depending on experience, licensing, and drone specialization).
- Package Includes: Potential bonuses, travel allowance, and access to professional development opportunities.
- The company offers a high-reward culture where excellence and innovation in drone-based services are recognized and incentivized.