Public Safety UAV Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of technological advancement, the importance of Public Safety UAV Coordinators has grown exponentially.
As technology evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage, optimize, and ensure the safety of our unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) increases.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Public Safety UAV Coordinator?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager crafting the profile of an ideal candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of UAV coordination in public safety,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Public Safety UAV Coordinator job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Public Safety UAV Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities
Public Safety UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Coordinators are responsible for managing and coordinating the deployment and operation of drones in public safety operations, including law enforcement, firefighting, and search and rescue missions.
They play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient use of UAV technology in these settings.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Develop and implement safety protocols for UAV operation in public safety contexts
- Coordinate the deployment and operation of UAVs in response to public safety incidents
- Train public safety personnel in the use of UAVs and related equipment
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to UAV usage
- Perform pre-flight checks and post-flight maintenance on UAVs to ensure their safe and effective operation
- Document UAV flight data and operational information for review and analysis
- Communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders, including public safety officials, emergency responders, and the public
- Manage UAV equipment inventory and facilitate necessary repairs or replacements
- Collaborate with public safety officials to develop strategies for incorporating UAV technology into their operations
Public Safety UAV Coordinator Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated Public Safety UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Coordinator to manage and oversee the operation of our UAV fleet.
This role involves ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, managing training programs, and coordinating missions in accordance with public safety objectives.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in aviation, knowledge of drone technology, and experience with emergency response operations.
This role requires excellent communication skills, strong problem-solving abilities, and meticulous attention to detail.
Responsibilities
- Oversee the operation and maintenance of UAV fleet in line with public safety objectives
- Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and other relevant federal, state, and local laws
- Develop and implement training programs for UAV operators
- Coordinate UAV missions for public safety operations, such as search and rescue, fire monitoring, and emergency response
- Work with stakeholders to develop operational procedures and protocols for UAV use
- Monitor advancements in UAV technology and make recommendations for improvements or upgrades
- Manage all record-keeping and reporting related to UAV operations
Qualifications
- Proven experience in a UAV or aviation-related role
- Knowledge of FAA regulations and other relevant laws
- Experience with emergency response operations preferred
- Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail
- Excellent communication and leadership skills
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and make critical decisions under pressure
- Technical proficiency with drone technology and related software
- Bachelor’s degree in aviation, public safety, or a related field
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Training and development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Public Safety UAV Coordinator
- Work Environment: Office setting with frequent field operations. Travel may be required for training, meetings, or emergency response.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Public Safety Director or other assigned supervisor.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Public Safety UAV Coordinator Do?
Public Safety UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Coordinators work primarily in the field of emergency services or disaster response.
They can be employed by government agencies, law enforcement departments, or private companies specializing in public safety.
Their main responsibility is to deploy and manage the usage of UAVs, commonly known as drones, for various public safety operations.
This could include search and rescue missions, crime scene analysis, firefighting surveillance, disaster assessment and more.
They are tasked with coordinating and planning the UAV operations, ensuring that the drones are in proper working condition, and that all operations comply with local and federal aviation regulations.
UAV Coordinators work closely with other public safety officials to determine the best way to utilize drones in their operations.
They may also need to interpret and analyze data captured by the drones, and relay this information to relevant parties.
Additionally, they are often responsible for the training of other staff members on how to operate and utilize drones in their respective duties.
They may also be in charge of managing the budget related to UAV equipment and maintenance.
In emergency situations, the Public Safety UAV Coordinator is often required to make critical decisions under pressure to help ensure public safety and effective emergency response.
Public Safety UAV Coordinator Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Public Safety UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Coordinator should possess certain skills and qualifications to ensure efficient operation, including:
- Strong knowledge of aviation regulations and laws to ensure all UAV operations are legal and safe.
- Proficiency in operating and maintaining various types of UAVs including drones, to ensure smooth aerial operations.
- Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues that may arise during UAV operations.
- Excellent communication skills to liaise with ground teams, emergency services and other relevant bodies, ensuring smooth coordination of operations.
- Ability to analyze geographical data and UAV footage, utilizing software tools to assist in real-time decision making during public safety operations.
- Strong leadership and management skills to oversee UAV teams, ensuring they are well-coordinated, trained, and prepared for any situation.
- Understanding of weather patterns and ability to make accurate judgments on flight feasibility under various conditions.
- Technological aptitude for learning and adapting to new UAV technology and systems as they evolve.
Public Safety UAV Coordinator Experience Requirements
Public Safety Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Coordinators typically require a strong background in emergency management or public safety.
1-3 years of experience working with UAVs (or drones) in a professional capacity, preferably within a public safety context, is often desired.
This can be through relevant roles such as a UAV Pilot, UAV Technician, or similar positions.
Candidates should ideally have experience in coordinating and executing UAV operations, including planning, deploying, and monitoring UAV flights.
Experience in ensuring compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations is also crucial.
Furthermore, individuals with a background in public safety or law enforcement often have an added advantage.
This can include roles such as firefighters, police officers, or emergency medical technicians, where they may have had exposure to using UAVs for public safety purposes.
For higher-level or leadership roles, more than 5 years of experience in drone technology or public safety fields is generally required.
This should ideally include some form of supervisory or management experience, as these roles often involve coordinating teams, managing resources, and strategic planning.
Such candidates are expected to be proficient in policy development and implementation, as well as in risk management.
Additional qualifications, such as certified training in drone operations or a license from the FAA, can further enhance a candidate’s suitability for the role of a Public Safety UAV Coordinator.
Public Safety UAV Coordinator Education and Training Requirements
Public Safety UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Coordinators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent as a basic requirement.
It is highly beneficial for individuals to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as public safety administration, emergency management, aviation, or a similar discipline.
In addition, candidates need to have a strong background in UAV operations and should be certified UAV pilots.
For this, they must complete an FAA-approved training program and pass the FAA’s aeronautical knowledge test to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate.
Understanding of public safety policies, procedures, and regulations is essential.
Many agencies also require experience in emergency response coordination or public safety.
Specialized training in areas such as infrared technology, aerial photography and videography can provide an edge.
Knowledge of laws and regulations pertaining to the use of UAVs in public safety operations is also a must.
Certifications from recognized bodies in emergency management or public safety can indicate a candidate’s dedication and enhance their employment prospects.
Ongoing education and training are important in this field due to the rapid advancements in UAV technology and related legislation.
Public Safety UAV Coordinator Salary Expectations
A Public Safety UAV Coordinator earns an average salary of $72,000 (USD) per year.
The actual earnings may fluctuate depending on the level of experience, qualifications, geographical location, and the employing organization.
Public Safety UAV Coordinator Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Public Safety UAV Coordinator need?
Public Safety UAV Coordinators require strong technical skills to operate and maintain UAVs. They should have a detailed understanding of UAV flight principles, safety procedures, and laws.
Additionally, they should possess excellent communication and coordination skills to liaise with emergency services, government agencies, and the public.
Knowledge of data analysis, mapping, and surveying techniques can also be beneficial.
Do Public Safety UAV Coordinators need any special certification?
Yes, typically a Public Safety UAV Coordinator must have FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent, which qualifies them to legally operate drones for public safety purposes.
Further, they may also need to have completed training in emergency management or a related field.
What should you look for in a Public Safety UAV Coordinator resume?
Look for a solid background in UAV operation and a valid FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent.
Experience in emergency response or public safety roles could be a significant advantage.
Look for skills such as data analysis, communication, coordination, and technical proficiency.
Also, note any specialized training or certifications related to emergency management, disaster response, or public safety.
What qualities make a good Public Safety UAV Coordinator?
A good Public Safety UAV Coordinator is highly detail-oriented and alert, as safety is paramount in their role.
They must be able to make quick decisions under pressure and communicate effectively with various stakeholders.
They should have a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to public safety.
Technical proficiency, problem-solving skills, and adaptability are also crucial in this role.
What is the role of a Public Safety UAV Coordinator in emergency situations?
In emergency situations, a Public Safety UAV Coordinator is responsible for deploying and operating UAVs to aid in response efforts.
They might use UAVs to survey disaster areas, locate missing persons, monitor fire situations, or deliver emergency supplies.
They coordinate with emergency services, providing them with crucial information gathered from UAV operations to assist in strategizing and implementing response efforts.
Conclusion
And there we have it.
Today, we’ve taken an in-depth look into the role of a Public Safety UAV Coordinator.
Surprise, surprise?
It’s not just about flying drones.
It’s about orchestrating the future of public safety, one UAV mission at a time.
With our definitive Public Safety UAV Coordinator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take flight.
But why end your journey here?
Soar further with our job description generator. It’s your next launchpad to creating pinpoint accurate job listings or refining your resume to unmatched precision.
Keep in mind:
Every UAV mission contributes to the larger goal.
Let’s secure that future. Together.
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