Drone Data and Analytics Specialist

• Design and Automate: Build and maintain automated processing workflows for drone datasets, including orthomosaics and 3D point clouds using tools like Pix4D or DroneDeploy.
• Advanced Analytics: Develop and refine machine learning models for object detection, vegetation density analysis, and urban canopy mapping.
• LiDAR Development: Build specialized workflows for canopy height modeling and terrain characterization.
• Operational Reporting: Create user-friendly dashboards and automated reports that translate complex data into clear indicators for program managers.
• Data Governance: Establish frameworks for naming conventions, storage architecture, and privacy compliance (FOIP).
• Collaboration: Work with internal collaborators like the Senior Landscape Technician to align field collection with analytical needs.
• Research and Innovation: Monitor emerging trends in AI and remote sensing to keep the City’s drone program at the leading edge.

• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science is required.
• Experience: A minimum of one (1) year of professional experience in data science, geospatial analytics, remote sensing, software development, or a closely related technical field. *Applicants are encouraged to submit their transcripts as part of the submission process.*

• Additional education or formal training in Geomatics, Geography, Environmental Sciences, Remote Sensing, or Data Science.
• Master’s degree or graduate coursework in geospatial data science, machine learning, or urban forestry analytics.
• Training in Geomatics, Geography, Environmental Sciences, or Remote Sensing.
• Experience with photogrammetry or LiDAR software such as Agisoft Metashape, LAStools, or CloudCompare.
• Relevant certifications: ESRI ArcGIS, Google Cloud/AWS/Azure data platforms, or Transport Canada Advanced Drone Pilot Certificate.
• Experience working within a municipal government or public sector environment.

• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated experience in developing machine learning models for image or geospatial analysis.
• Advanced ability to build scalable data pipelines for massive geospatial datasets.
• Software Skills: Proficiency in Python-based data science workflows (scikit-learn, pandas, NumPy, GDAL, etc.) and experience with enterprise GIS platforms like ArcGIS or QGIS.
• Analytical Problem-Solving: Ability to solve complex technical challenges, such as developing ML models with limited training data.
• Communication: Skill in translating highly technical findings into clear, actionable information for non-technical audiences.
• Organization: Proven ability to manage multiple analytical projects simultaneously with competing deadlines.
• Collaborative Spirit: A team player who can work effectively with everyone from field crews to corporate IT infrastructure teams.
• Alignment to our Cultural Commitments and Leadership Competencies (

• Safety Sensitive: This position is designated as safety-sensitive and requires adherence to related protocols.

• This role primarily operates in an indoor office environment (approximately 67-100% of the time) but involves occasional outdoor work where you may be exposed to moderate temperatures and variable weather conditions.
• You will frequently be required to walk, stand, and balance, with occasional lifting of equipment up to 10 lbs.
• The role involves significant visual acuity and spatial perception for data analysis.
• Protective equipment, such as safety footwear, is required during field visits or when working around equipment.
• Note: This position ​may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement ​with ​the flexibility to work from both home and the worksite as per the Letter of Understanding between the City of Edmonton and Civic Service Union 52.
• The weekly hours of work for this position are currently under review and may change at a future time. Any changes will be made in accordance with the City of Edmonton/Civic Service Union 52 collective agreement and the incumbent will be notified in advance.

City of Edmonton