Emergency Response Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems Coordinator Job Listing at City of Edmonton in Edmonton, AB (Job ID 53761)

Description

Join Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) in a cutting-edge role at the intersection of public safety and advanced technology. We are seeking a strategic and innovative leader to serve as the Emergency Response Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS) Coordinator. This temporary full-time position offers a unique opportunity to lead and shape a new program that enhances how we protect our city.

As the RPAS Coordinator, you will ensure our drone program is effective, compliant, and always innovating. You will lead the entire program, focusing on safety, regulatory compliance, and collaboration with inter-agency community partners. This role involves integrating advanced technology like "Drone as a First Responder" (DFR) , AI integration , and Beyond-Visual-Line-of-Sight (BVLOS) operations. You will manage the program's full lifecycle, from research and development, logistics, and training to data governance and asset maintenance , all while enhancing public safety.

What will you do?

• Lead and coordinate the EFRS RPAS program, including staff supervision, to ensure readiness and continuous innovation
• Strategically develop and scale "Drone as a First Responder" (DFR) capabilities, integrating advanced automation and command systems
• Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with inter-agency collaborators, including Edmonton Police Service, Park Rangers, and regional fire services
• Direct the development, submission, and management of Special Flight Operations Certificates (SFOCs) for advanced missions (DFR, BVLOS)
• Ensure all operations strictly comply with Transport Canada, NAV CANADA, and municipal aviation requirements
• Provide expert technical, logistical, and regulatory support to Fire Operations during emergency incidents, ensuring drone use aligns with fireground tactics and crew safety
• Identify, evaluate, and pilot emerging drone technologies, AI models, and sensors through structured field trials
• Establish and manage robust data governance policies for evidence retention, chain of custody, and secure storage of aerial footage, ensuring compliance with privacy legislation
• Develop and manage a comprehensive maintenance, logistics, and training program, including the certification of RPAS pilots and visual observers within Fire Operations
• Other duties as assigned