Unmanned Aerial Systems; UAS Intern

Position: Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Intern
Collier Mosquito Control District is hiring! We're seeking a motivated and tech-savvy Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Intern to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience with Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in a real-world, field-based setting. If you're eager to apply drone technology to public health and learn about mosquitoes in a collaborative environment, this role is for you!

Description

As a UAS Intern, you will assist with UAS operations to support the District's integrated mosquito management (IMM) program. This role will primarily involve field work with occasional office work which includes:

• Assist with the planning and execution of drone missions for mosquito surveillance and treatment operations
• Perform mosquito surveillance activities, including landing rate counts, traps, and larval dips
• Collect and process aerial imagery and other remote sensing data
• Assist with GIS data collection and integration tasks
• Complete UAS maintenance and exercise tasks, including calibration and troubleshooting
• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, safety protocols, and flight records requirements
• Perform data entry and quality control tasks to ensure up-to-date record keeping
• Collaborate across departments for applying drone-based solutions

This internship will provide a mix of technical development and fieldwork, offering a unique opportunity to gain valuable, real-world UAS and GIS experience.

The District

Collier Mosquito Control District covers 730 square miles in Southwest Florida, between the Gulf of America and the Everglades. We are a team of dedicated professionals working to protect public health through innovative and science-driven mosquito control strategies. As a UAS Intern, you will collaborate with experts in Operations and Research, gaining exposure to a variety of projects.

Requirements

• Must be currently enrolled in an associate or bachelor's degree program at an accredited college or university or recently graduated
• Some experience or coursework with data analysis or GIS software, such as Excel, ArcGIS, QGIS, or scripting languages
• Florida Public Health Pest Control, Aerial Applicator and FAA Part 107 license preferred
• Must possess a Florida operator's license in good standing with an acceptable official driving record

Highly Desirable

• Proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to identify tasks and take initiative without direct supervision
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Familiarity with remote sensing equipment, GPS units, and geospatial principles.
• Programming or GIS experience, especially Python and R
• Understanding of FAA regulations related to UAS operations
• Ability to troubleshoot technical issues related to computer hardware and software

Position Details

• Hours & Schedule:

Work 20-40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, holidays and weekends as needed

• Internship Duration:

The internship begins May 4th, 2026, and continues through August 20th, 2026 (negotiable depending on student's schedule), offering participants a comprehensive and hands-on experience designed to build skills, knowledge, and professional growth.

This is an in-person position.

Housing stipend available upon demonstrated need and availability.

This position requires frequent handling of pesticides and fieldwork in remote areas in the hot and humid environment of

Southwest Florida with exposure to biting insects and hazardous wildlife as part of a team.

Collier Mosquito Control District is a Drug-Free and Equal Opportunity Employer.

This organization participates in E-Verify.

If you are interested in this position please apply at:

CMCD.ORG/CAREEROPPORTUNITIES