Remote Tactical Flight Operator

Summary Objective The Remote Tactical Flight Operator is a key member of the Drone as First Responder (DFR) Program. This position is responsible for operating small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) to support police, fire, and EMS responses. This role combines public safety expertise with FAA Part 107 certification to provide real-time situational awareness, enhance responder safety, and improve emergency response outcomes. The RTFO ensures safe, compliant, and mission-driven drone operations that support tactical decision-making and rapid deployment.

Essential Functions The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

• Operates drones remotely in a secure, technology driven, Remote Operation Center (ROC) in response to emergency calls including violent crimes, structure fires, technical rescues, and missing persons.
• Provides tactical oversight and guidance during drone deployments, ensuring compliance with law enforcement and public safety protocols.
• Understands public safety protocols and incident command systems (ICS).
• Communicates real-time intelligence to field units, including hazard identification, suspect behavior, and scene assessment.
• Familiar with GIS mapping, aerial photography, and data analysis.
• Utilizes thermal imaging and high-definition video to assess scenes and relay actionable information.
• Serves as a de-escalation tool by helping determine threat levels before responders arrive.
• Coordinates with other FAA Part 107 Certified Remote Pilots to ensure safe and effective drone operations.
• Maintains detailed logs of drone deployments, mission outcomes, and performance metrics.
• Conducts pre-flight planning, risk assessments, and post-flight documentation.
• Participates in ongoing training, performance evaluations, and protocol updates.
• Supports large-scale event monitoring, disaster response, and as needed.
• Travels to Drone as First Responder (DFR) dock locations to perform preventative and routine maintenance on drone systems and infrastructure.
• Climbs ladders, working at heights, and operating in various weather conditions including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Works in high-pressure environments and makes rapid decisions.
• Performs related work as assigned.
• High school diploma or GED
• Valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, or other emergency response roles.

Other Minimum Requirments

• Must be a US Citizen.
• Must submit to a pre-employment polygraph test.
• Must submit to a pre-employment drug screening.
• Must not have been convicted of a felony (Misdemeanor convictions will be considered on an individual basis).
• Must provide one’s own source of transportation.
• Must work a varied scheduled.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.
• Excellent communication skills for relaying critical information to field units.
• Must possess and maintain a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate with continuous training and skill development required to maintain operational readiness.
• Meets regular and punctual attendance standards and any special needs of the position as determined by management, including mandatory overtime, and performing related work.
• Applicants who have illegally bought or used marijuana, including medicinal cannabis, within six months of application will be disqualified.
• Applicants who have illegally sold marijuana, including medicinal cannabis, within one year of application will be disqualified.
• Applicants who have illegally bought, sold, or used any controlled substance or narcotic drug, other than marijuana, without a prescription within six years of application will be disqualified.

Physical Demands Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.

• Performs sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time and exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis, including sustained keyboard operations.

Unavoidable Hazards (work Environment) Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken.

• Involves routine and frequent exposure to:

• Bright/dim light; Dusts and pollen.

• Extreme heat and/or cold; Wet or humid conditions.

• Extreme noise levels, Animals/wildlife.

• Vibration; Fumes and/or noxious odors.

• Traffic; Moving machinery.

• Electrical shock; Heights.

• Other extreme hazards not listed above

Americans With Disabilities Act Compliance Louisville Metro Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the Louisville Metro Government to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

STANDARD CLAUSES May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Louisville Metro Government.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Essential Safety Functions It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.

Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.

SALARY GRADE: 111

TEST WEIGHTS: 100% TRAINING & EXPERIENCE

EEO

Please note that Training & Experience scores are based on the relevant (as determined by the hiring agency and Civil Service) training and experience from the last 10 years, as listed on your application and resume, as submitted. Any information that is unclear or that is not listed on your application and/or resume will not be considered in the calculation of the Training & Experience score. This also means that you should list your employment dates, including the month and year (i.e. 02/2017 to 08/2020) of employment, and number of hours worked per week.