Senior Robotics Specialist

Summary

The Senior Robotics Specialist (BlueBird), will report up to the NYPA Robotics Program manager, this will drive enterprise level advancement of uncrewed and autonomous systems, guiding the strategic expansion of the BLUEBIRD (Remote Operation Program) initiatives and broader robotics capabilities across the organization. This role blends technical leadership, regulatory expertise, and cross agency collaboration to ensure NYPA remains at the forefront of safe, compliant, and innovative Robotics solutions.

This role will be a key part of communication between engineering, operations, aviation, and Canals. As a Sr. Robotics Specialist (BlueBird), the position helps shape program direction, evaluates emerging technologies, and develops mission‑aligned use cases that enhance operational efficiency and organizational resilience. This role works closely with Canals Asset Management and Structural Inspection.

In addition, it strengthens workforce capability and safety through pilot training and use‑case development helping build a sustainable, future‑ready robotics ecosystem for NYPA and Canals with the mindset of “Risk the Machine, Not the Person.” #LI-VB1

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage NYPA's Robotics program and related projects, aligning it with organizational goals, safety and regulatory compliance.
• Provide end-to-end support for issues to perform triage, open tickets, and utilize UAS knowledge to resolve drone flight and any supporting software platform issues reported by Operators. Document problems including steps taken, diagnostic results, and escalation and repair information.
• Oversee a team of UAS operators and trainers, conducting advanced training sessions and supervising field operations.
• Assist with enhancing and creating new Robotics Processes and procedures.
• Assist with testing UAS hardware and software to aid in evaluating and developing product, software, and firmware releases.
• Analyze trouble tickets and maintenance logs and identify trends leading to canceled and interrupted missions including weather, policy, software and firmware defects, hardware deficiencies, and training opportunities.
• Developing new use cases around NYPA using different robotics technologies.
• Oversee inventory management of robotic and related equipment across NYPA sites. Facilitate RMA, maintenance, and inventory management processes.
• Contribute to the development of robotic related software applications, providing expertise in user acceptance testing and system improvements.
• Engage in STEM outreach programs, promoting the use of robotic in educational and community initiatives.
• Regularly identify and review UAS technologies to help inform senior leadership of options, and to help lay out a strategic approach for growing BVLOS and air domain awareness capabilities. Make recommendations for acquisition and system integration.
   

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge and operational familiarity with Mobile Robotics and Drone technologies, regulations and procedures.
• Strong knowledge and/or experience in: Robotics (including Drones), Control Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Navigation, Wireless Technologies, Sensors
• Familiarity with software platform development processes, particularly related to drone missions and data management.
• Experience or technical understanding of electrical, mechanical and software engineering concepts.
• Strong analytical, automation, and software development skills are also essential for this role.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, able to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders for training, change management.
• Strong ability to consume and manipulate large data sets and articulate its business impact.
   

Education, Experience and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree (Engineering Degree preferred) , Military experience in either aviation or UAS technical fields, with a strong focus on utility applications or an additional 4 years of directly related experience.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in robotics or computer systems.
• Active FAA Part 107 License and security clearance.
• Experience in BVLOS operations or with other entities supporting FAA UAS integration efforts (e.g., FAA test sites, centers of excellence, Integration Pilot Program partners, etc.) preferred.
• Previous experience in a Utility industry or similar organization is preferred.
   

Physical Requirements

Approximately 40% travel, primarily within NYS