Research & Engineering Associate: Drone Field Specialist (Hybrid)

STW™ is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to conduct water research to identify and remove harmful contaminants in water, and to raise public awareness about water contamination and its health impacts. STW™ also offers educational programs to excite young minds about water science.

Our volunteers are diverse professionals from all over the world, bringing their knowledge and experience to STW™ because we care deeply about our communities and water resources. We learn and collaborate in an open and empowering work environment to find long-term solutions to the water contamination problem. Our vision is “Contamination-free, healthy water for all”.

To learn more about Save the Water™, please visit www.savethewater.org

Become a Drone Field Specialist with Save the Water and channel your passion into powerful environmental change. Make your hobby count for a healthier planet!

Overview:

• Support Everglades monitoring efforts to identify and address water contaminants.
• Volunteers are expected to contribute up to 6 hours per week, depending on fieldwork opportunities.
• Must own a drone and live near the Everglades area in Florida for on-site flights.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Use a personal drone to capture aerial video and images of targeted areas in the Everglades, including potential pollution sites and areas of interest.
• Follow US FAA drone regulations and safety guidelines during operations.
• Upload footage to the team for review, to help select water sampling locations, identify contamination sources, and support social media awareness efforts.
• Participate in occasional virtual meetings or email updates on project needs and findings.
• Provide additional research and logistics support to laboratory and field operations.

Experience/Requirements:

• Own a reliable drone suitable for high-resolution aerial video (e.g., with GPS stabilization).
• Reside near the Florida Everglades for practical access to flight sites.
• Basic drone operation skills; experience with environmental or aerial filming is an asset, but not required.
• Experience understanding and complying with local and federal drone laws (e.g., FAA Part 107).
• Strong attention to detail, commitment to environmental protection, and willingness to follow instructions.
• Reliable internet for file uploads and communication.
• Post-secondary education in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline is preferred.

Why Volunteer With Us?

• • Make a direct impact: Your drone footage will help uncover pollution threats in the Everglades, protect public health for Florida residents, and contribute to long-term water quality solutions as part of a larger effort to safeguard ecosystems and communities for future generations.
  • Gain valuable experience: Build hands-on skills in environmental monitoring, aerial data collection, and collaboration with scientists and engineers - ideal for students, recent grads, or professionals.
  • Get recognized: Save the Water™ owns all captured material, but we always credit photographers/videographers in reports, social media, and publications (with your permission).
  • Join a meaningful cause: Be part of a dedicated team and feel the satisfaction of turning your drone hobby into meaningful environmental action.

How to apply:

If interested, please submit your resume to newvolunteers@savethewater.org. We would love to hear from you!