UAS Drone Program Support Specialist - Columbus

Job Summary · The UAS Drone Program Support Specialist provides operational, technical, and analytical support for the company's unmanned aviation systems program and related services. This role assists in the implementation of system and process changes, supports regulatory and ...

Job description

Job Summary
The UAS Drone Program Support Specialist provides operational, technical, and analytical support for the company's unmanned aviation systems program and related services. This role assists in the implementation of system and process changes, supports regulatory and compliance activities, and contributes to reporting & documentation efforts. The Specialist works closely with cross-functional teams to ensure program accuracy, efficiency, and alignment with organizational goals.

Essential Functions

• Supports and leads implementation of technology-related initiatives for unmanned aircraft systems programs and operational activities
• Supports the execution of the organization's vision for UAS activity across the enterprise.
• Contributes to process improvement efforts, maintains reference materials, and supports the rollout of new technologies and procedures, contributing to mission execution
• Maintains advance knowledge of program operations and industry practices to support internal teams and external suppliers.
• Assist in preparing data, documentation, and reports for billing, compliance, and operational activity while promoting Aviation safety management system (SMS)
• Monitors regulatory updates, assists with implementing necessary changes, and ensures compliance with applicable tariffs, regulations, and internal policies.
• Collaborates with internal teams and business units to resolve issues, identify process improvements, and contribute to project execution.
• Provides data analysis and reporting support to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Maintains strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Applies advanced knowledge of key aviation systems to support cross-functional efforts.
• Ensures daily operational metrics are met.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree
• 1-3 years of experience in aviation operations, geographic information systems, remotely sensed data, or related field
• Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• Familiarity with UAS regulatory requirements, industry practices, technology, and testing
• Ability to support technology-related initiatives, operational activities, and rollout of new systems and procedures
• Strong collaboration skills with the ability to work across departments and business units
• Strong attention to detail, data analysis, reporting, communication, and time management skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and key business systems (e.g., Customer Information System, billing platforms, data tools including IT request tracking and resolution processes)
• Knowledge of applicable state and federal regulatory processes.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Additional Qualifications

• Experience with Esri ArcGIS mapping and photogrammetry
• Experience with SAP Ariba
• Familiarity with utility regulatory requirements, industry practices, and compliance testing

Physical Demands

• Standing - Occasionally
• Walking - Occasionally
• Sitting - Constantly
• Lifting - Occasionally
• Carrying - Occasionally
• Pushing - Rarely
• Pulling - Rarely
• Climbing - Rarely
• Balancing - Rarely
• Stooping - Rarely
• Kneeling - Rarely
• Crouching - Rarely
• Crawling - Rarely
• Reaching - Rarely
• Handling - Occasionally
• Grasping - Occasionally
• Feeling - Rarely
• Talking - Constantly
• Hearing - Constantly
• Repetitive Motions - Frequently
• Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination - Frequently

*The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

As a public utility, NiSource is required to provide continuous service to customers at all times. To ensure we fulfill that obligation, employees may be required to work outside their normal work hours and perform tasks outside of their normal responsibilities in support of emergency operations.

Work Authorization

Authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.

Workplace Connection
Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners.

Respect the unique lived experiences within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represents all walks of life and all backgrounds.​

Treat others with respect and consideration. Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity 
NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

By applying, you may be considered for other job opportunities. 

ADA Accommodations

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at  or

Safety Statement
Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program.  Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries.  Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers.  Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.

E-Verify

NiSource participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. As part of this process, we provide the following notices to all job applicants: These documents inform you of your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law. You can view or download them using the links below:

• E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish
• Right to Work Poster (English and Spanish) If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away

Salary Range*:

$69, $105,000.00

*The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.

Posting Start Date:

Posting End Date (if applicable):

Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.