UAS Technician

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Technicians work as part of a team or individually to provide technical support for the design, fabrication, maintenance, and repair of UAS and their systems. A UAS is commonly known as a drone and Technicians work with the aircraft, their control systems, communications, and other equipment. UAS Technicians may work on a variety of UAS, from small, commercial drones to large, military-grade systems.

What Does a UAS Technician Do?

UAS Technicians typically perform the following tasks:

• Conduct inspections and diagnostics
• Repair and maintain UAS and their components
• Test and calibrate UAS
• Troubleshoot problems
• Train and supervise other UAS personnel
• Work with engineers and designers to improve UAS systems
• Write technical reports and documentation
• Assist with data collection and analysis
• Work with customers to ensure satisfaction
• Keep up with the latest technologies and trends

UAS Technicians work in various industries, including military, law enforcement, commercial, and research. They work in a variety of settings, such as in the field, in a lab, or in a manufacturing facility.

How to Become a UAS Technician

The most common way to become a UAS Technician is to have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an approved training program. There are many approved training programs available, and they typically take 1-2 years to complete. Training programs include both classroom and hands-on training.

There are no formal licensing or certification requirements for UAS Technicians, but many employers prefer to hire Technicians who are certified by a recognized organization, such as The International Association for Unmanned Systems International (AUVSI).

Career Growth for UAS Technicians

UAS Technicians can advance in their careers by gaining experience and taking on additional responsibilities. They may become lead technicians, managers, or engineers. Some UAS Technicians may also choose to start their businesses.

Skills and Knowledge

UAS Technicians need to have a strong understanding of the following:

• UAS systems
• Electronics
• Mechanics
• Materials
• Safety procedures
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Customer service skills

Personal Qualities

UAS Technicians should have the following personal qualities:

• Strong work ethic
• Attention to detail
• Patience
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Willingness to learn new things

Projects

UAS Technicians may work on a variety of projects, such as:

• Designing and building UAS
• Repairing and maintaining UAS
• Testing and calibrating UAS
• Troubleshooting problems
• Training and supervising other UAS personnel
• Writing technical reports and documentation
• Assisting with data collection and analysis
• Working with customers to ensure satisfaction
• Keeping up with the latest technologies and trends

Self-Guided Projects

Students can complete several self-guided projects to prepare for a career as a UAS Technician. These projects include:

• Building a UAS from a kit
• Repairing a UAS
• Testing and calibrating a UAS
• Writing a technical report on a UAS
• Assisting with a data collection project
• Working with a customer to resolve a problem
• Keeping up with the latest technologies and trends

Online Courses

Online courses can be a great way to learn about UAS technology and the skills needed to be a UAS Technician. Online courses provide students with the flexibility to learn at their pace and on their schedule. However, online courses alone are not enough to qualify for a position as a UAS Technician. Hands-on training and experience are also required.

Online courses can help students learn about topics such as:

• UAS systems
• Electronics
• Mechanics
• Materials
• Safety procedures
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Customer service skills

Online courses can also provide students with the opportunity to practice their skills through projects and assignments. These projects and assignments can help students develop the confidence and skills needed to work as a UAS Technician.