Drone Show Pilot and Operations Engineer
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 Show Pilot and 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?
- Oversee the operation of a light show drone fleet to ensure robust performance and reliability.
- Act as Pilot In Command for exosphere drone light show performances.
- Implement a seamless production workflow 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.
- Create and maintain operational documentation, including best practices and procedural manuals.
- 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.
- Stay informed on the latest drone technologies and operational strategies to continually improve our systems.
- Manage FAA Communications for drone flight exemption waivers.
What do you need to succeed?
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Aviation, or a related technical field.
- 5+ years of operational experience, preferably in environments with a high frequency of drone flights.
- FAA Part 107 Drone License
- FAA Swarm Drone Show Waiver
- 1+ Years of drone light show flying experience
- Experience as a Show Caller for high profile live events
- Experience with Timecode workflows, hardware and content syncing systems
- Comprehensive engineering knowledge, with a focus on drone technology and operational systems.
- 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.
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.
At MSG, we recognize the importance of upskilling employees’ talents and strengths so they can drive their careers forward. We are proud to offer a robust set of tools and resources to help employees understand their interests and purpose, harness their talents and obtain the skills they need to reach the next step in their careers. Growth and longevity for our employees are top priorities here.
We value diversity and are looking for extraordinary employees of all backgrounds! MSG is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, sexual and reproductive health choices, national origin, citizenship, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. In addition to federal law mandates, MSG complies with all applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in all locations and will consider requests for reasonable accommodations as required.