How to Be Drone Regulatory Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jun 1, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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As the use of drones has increased, so has the need for Drone Regulatory Specialists. With their specialized knowledge and experience in aviation, they play an important role in ensuring the safety of both drones and airspace. A Drone Regulatory Specialist is responsible for understanding the regulations, laws, and protocols governing drones, as well as developing procedures and standards to ensure compliance with those regulations.

They also provide guidance to drone operators in understanding the rules and regulations around drone flight. The consequences of not having a knowledgeable individual that is well-versed in the rules, regulations, and protocols can be detrimental. Without a Drone Regulatory Specialist, there is an increased risk of airspace violations, which can lead to serious legal repercussions, as well as potential safety risks for both drone operators and those around them.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a bachelor's degree in aviation, aerospace engineering, or a related field. This will provide you with the necessary background for understanding the regulations and laws that govern drone operations.
Understand and become familiar with the regulations and laws that govern commercial drone operations. This includes studying the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and any state-specific laws related to drone operations.
Complete an FAA-approved Remote Pilot Certification Course. This will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to safely operate commercial drones.
Earn a professional certification as a Drone Regulatory Specialist from an accredited institution. This certification will demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the area of drone regulations and laws.
Participate in continuing education opportunities to stay up-to-date on the latest regulations and laws related to drone operations. This could include attending workshops, seminars, or conferences.
Consider joining a professional organization or network such as the Drone User Group Network (DUGN) or the Small UAV Coalition (SUAVC). This will provide you with additional resources and networking opportunities.

In order to keep updated and qualified as a Drone Regulatory Specialist, it is important to stay informed on changes in regulations and laws related to drones. It is also necessary to maintain any certifications or qualifications that are required for the job. Keeping up with industry news, attending conferences and workshops, and participating in professional development courses can help ensure that one is knowledgeable and prepared when it comes to drone regulations.

it is important to stay abreast of technological advancements in the field to ensure that one is able to properly utilize the latest technologies when operating a drone. By staying informed and continuing to develop their qualifications, Drone Regulatory Specialists are able to remain competitive in their field and provide the best possible service to their clients.

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Job Description

Develop and implement regulatory policies and procedures for the operation of drones.
Evaluate and interpret drone regulations to ensure compliance with national and international laws.
Monitor drone activities to identify compliance issues and work with stakeholders to address them.
Research and analyze relevant regulations, legal documents, and industry trends.
Advise internal teams on regulatory issues related to drone operations.
Participate in industry events and committees to stay up-to-date on new regulations and industry trends.
Prepare reports on drone regulations and industry developments.
Collaborate with internal teams to develop strategies for staying compliant with drone regulations.
Create training materials to ensure staff are aware of current drone regulations.
Provide guidance to other departments including engineering, marketing, and operations on compliance requirements.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aviation regulations and safety standards.
Knowledge of drone operation and maintenance principles.
Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, and rules to drone operations.
Knowledge of the National Airspace System (NAS).
Knowledge of airspace classification rules, requirements for operating in special use airspace, and other airspace restrictions.
Ability to develop, implement, and administer drone policies, procedures, and safety programs.
Ability to provide instruction and guidance to drone operators on regulatory compliance.
Ability to analyze data and formulate recommendations regarding drone operations.
Ability to coordinate with external stakeholders, such as law enforcement and other aviation professionals, on drone operations.
Knowledge of applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and procedures.
Ability to develop, present, and lead educational programs on drone operations and regulations.
Ability to stay current with regulatory changes impacting the use of drones.

Drone Regulatory Specialists must have a comprehensive knowledge of the regulations that govern the operation of drones. This is because the consequences of not following the regulations can be severe, including fines, loss of license, and even criminal charges. As a Drone Regulatory Specialist, it is essential to be able to interpret and explain the regulations to drone pilots and other members of the public.

This includes having a detailed understanding of the aviation laws that are applicable to drones, as well as all of the other legal requirements that are imposed on drone operators. they must be able to keep up with any changes in the law and ensure that everyone who needs to know is informed of those changes. With their expertise, Drone Regulatory Specialists can ensure that everyone involved with drone operations is aware of the regulations that are in place and that they are adhered to.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as a Drone Regulatory Specialist?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest drone regulations and laws?
What strategies do you use to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal drone regulations?
Describe a project or initiative you have led in drone regulation.
How do you create an effective system for tracking and enforcing drone regulations?
What challenges have you faced while working in drone regulation?
How do you communicate complex regulatory issues to non-experts?
How would you go about gathering data to inform decision-making when it comes to drone regulations?
What strategies do you use to build relationships with stakeholders in the drone industry?
How do you use technology to improve the efficiency of the drone regulatory process?

Common Tools in Industry

Radio Frequency (RF) Spectrum Analyzer. This tool is used to analyze the electromagnetic spectrum and detect any irregularities that could affect radio frequency performance. Example: using a RF Spectrum Analyzer to identify and fix interference issues.
Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Simulator. This tool is used to simulate different flight scenarios and create a virtual environment for drone operations. Example: using a UAS Simulator to practice flying a drone in challenging weather conditions.
Remote Pilot Logbook. This tool is used to record the details of each flight, including the date, duration, and any relevant notes. Example: using a Remote Pilot Logbook to track flight hours and ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
Airspace Mapping Software. This tool is used to create detailed maps of the airspace surrounding a given location. Example: using Airspace Mapping Software to plan a safe route for drones to follow.
Weather Forecasting Software. This tool is used to predict weather conditions, such as temperature, wind speed, and visibility. Example: using Weather Forecasting Software to ensure that drones can fly safely in a given area.

Professional Organizations to Know

Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)
Unmanned Safety Institute (USI)
Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI)
Small UAV Coalition
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
Air Traffic Control Association (ATCA)
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

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Common Important Terms

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). A type of aircraft that is operated without a human pilot on board.
Remote Pilot Certificate. A certificate that must be obtained in order to legally operate an unmanned aircraft system in the United States.
Airspace. The area around an airport, or other restricted areas, that is closed off to aircraft and other flying objects.
Regulations. Rules and laws put in place by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other government entities that must be followed when operating a UAS.
Airworthiness Certificate. A certificate issued by the FAA that is required for any aircraft to be flown safely in the United States.
Flight Operations Manual. A document that outlines how a UAS should be operated, and includes safety protocols, operational procedures, and other important information.
Flight Plan. A document outlining the plan for a UAS mission, including flight routes, takeoff and landing points, and other important information.
Weather. The atmospheric conditions at any given time, which can affect the safe operation of a UAS.
Air Traffic Control (ATC). The system used to direct the movement of aircraft in the sky and on the ground.
National Airspace System (NAS). A network of airspace managed by the FAA and other government entities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Drone Regulatory Specialist? A1: A Drone Regulatory Specialist is a professional who has expertise in the laws, regulations, and policies related to the use of drones or unmanned aerial systems (UAS). They help organizations understand and comply with applicable laws, regulations, and policies to ensure safe and legal operation of UAS. Q2: What qualifications are required to be a Drone Regulatory Specialist? A2: A Drone Regulatory Specialist should have knowledge in aviation law and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations, as well as an understanding of the technology and safety protocols related to UAS operations. Depending on the organizations needs, a background in engineering or business could also be beneficial. Q3: What tasks does a Drone Regulatory Specialist typically perform? A3: A Drone Regulatory Specialist typically performs tasks such as researching applicable laws and regulations, developing policy and procedures for safe UAS operations, providing guidance on compliance with applicable regulations, and consulting with stakeholders on UAS operations. Q4: How many states have enacted drone laws? A4: As of 2021, forty-four states have enacted drone laws. The laws vary from state to state, but typically address topics such as registration requirements, privacy protections, airspace restrictions, and other operational restrictions. Q5: What organizations often seek the services of a Drone Regulatory Specialist? A5: Organizations such as government agencies, law enforcement, public safety organizations, commercial companies, universities, and research institutions often seek the services of a Drone Regulatory Specialist.

Web Resources

Drones Regulatory Research Initiative Overview - Purdue University www.purdue.edu
Drone Technology Certificate - Drone Classes - Santa Ana College www.sac.edu
What Does a Regulatory Specialist Do? | Role www.northeastern.edu