Drone Operations Technician

Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR) is a premier live entertainment and media company. The Company includes Sphere, a next-generation entertainment medium powered by cutting-edge technologies to redefine the future of entertainment. The first Sphere venue in Las Vegas opened in September 2023. In addition, the Company includes MSG Networks, which operates two regional sports and entertainment networks, MSG Network and MSG Sportsnet, as well as a direct-to-consumer and authenticated streaming product, MSG+, delivering a wide range of live sports content and other programming. More information is available at sphereentertainmentco.com.

Who are we hiring?

The Las Vegas Sphere Operations Team is at the forefront deploying innovative aerial solutions to enhance our audience's experience. We are seeking a Drone Operations Engineer who will specialize in UAV operations and deployment, ensuring our drone platforms are optimized for performance and reliability. This individual will be instrumental in managing inventory, FAA communications, maintenance and show production, ensuring that UAV’s are operated reliably and safely for Sphere events and shows.

What will you do?

• Pilot multirotor, dirigible and fixed wing platforms in a variety of environments and conditions, ensuring smooth and precise control.  
• Expertise in manually piloted platforms that do not use GPS or altitude hold. Acro piloting skills are a must.
• Extreme proficiency in both visual piloting as well as monitor or goggle operation.
• Ability to fly calibration flights indoor over uneven terrain, this includes flying with the help of visual observers on com systems in low light or difficult perspective situations.
• Implement procedures for system redundancy to minimize risks during live operations.
• Act as first tier maintenance and support engineer, providing flexible engineering support.
• Maintain inventory tracking systems and vendor relationships for repairs and service.
• Provide hands-on training and support during the deployment phase, ensuring a smooth transition into live show environments.
• Serve as the primary technical contact and first line support during drone deployment and the liaison to the Burbank based Drone Co. Team.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, applying problem-solving skills to address challenges swiftly.
• Develop and enforce pre and post flight checks to ensure safe operation.
• Perform repairs and maintenance on drones and dirigibles, including electrical systems, hardware, and mechanical components.
• Stay informed on the latest drone technologies and operational strategies to continually improve our systems.
• Collaborate with other team members on technical projects and contribute to the ongoing improvement of drone systems.
• Manage FAA Communications for drone flight exemption waivers.
• Manage 3D printers for production of spare parts

What do you need to succeed?

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Aviation, or a related technical field.
• Extensive experience piloting advanced RC airplanes and drones.
• FAA Part 107 Drone License is a plus.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for addressing flight performance issues, hardware malfunctions, and environmental challenges.
• Hands-on experience repairing drones and RC airplanes, including working with electrical components, flight controllers, motors, and propellers.
• Extensive experience wiring and programming various flight controller platforms.
• Ability to use various hand and power tools, calipers as well as other high accuracy measuring devices and equipment to repair and modify drone systems, including soldering, 3D printing, light 3d CAD modeling and mechanical work. Proficiency in Fusion 360 is a plus.
• Ability to track down and diagnose electrical issues.
• Experience in live entertainment environments with multiple shows per day/ per week. 
• Proven adaptability and problem-solving skills, with a capacity to work on multiple project areas.
• Strong organizational skills to manage complex tasks and maintain attention to detail under pressure.
• Excellent communication abilities to coordinate with various teams and provide clear instructions during operations.
• Experience in live entertainment is a huge plus
• Optitrack knowledge is also a plus

Special Requirements

• Availability to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, especially during show runs.
• Willingness to travel as needed for testing, deployment, and operational oversight.
• A video demonstration of your piloting skills is required to be included in your resume or application. Please provide links to videos where you demonstrate your ability to fly RC airplanes and drones, especially if you have experience with large scale fixed wing aircraft and multirotor platforms.

Location: Las Vegas

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