At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead drone operations and capture stunning photography at live racing events.
- Company: Join Road America, a premier motorsports venue with a passion for innovation.
- Benefits: Seasonal part-time role with hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of event media and showcase thrilling motorsport moments.
- Qualifications: FAA certification and 2+ years of drone operation and photography experience required.
- Other info: Perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced, high-energy settings.
Location: Elkhart Lake, WI
Role Status: Seasonal/Part-Time
Location: OnSite
About the Role
Road America is creating a rare opportunity to help build an innovative program from the ground up. As our Lead Drone & Track Photography Specialist, you’ll be at the forefront of visual storytelling—combining aerial cinematography, trackside photography, and technical expertise to deliver world-class coverage of our events. You’ll manage all aspects of drone flight operations and event photography, working directly with our marketing, broadcast, and operations teams to produce high-quality content for our clients and competitors. From breathtaking overhead shots to dramatic on-track photography, your work will showcase Road America’s unique energy and atmosphere to fans worldwide.
Key Responsibilities
- Drone Operations
- Lead all drone flight activities for live events and special projects, ensuring FAA compliance and safety.
- Plan and coordinate flights, manage crew assignments, and oversee airspace authorization.
- Operate drones to capture cinematic footage for broadcast, marketing, and digital platforms.
- Maintain and configure drone equipment, manage battery cycles, and integrate live video feeds into production.
- Troubleshoot technical, connectivity, and signal issues during events.
- Collaborate with production teams on shot planning, RF frequency coordination, and post-production needs.
- Capture high-quality still photography of racing action, trackside activities, and behind-the-scenes moments.
- Provide both creative and documentary-style images for competitors and clients.
- Organize, edit, and archive images for easy retrieval and consistent branding.
- Work closely with marketing to create visual assets for campaigns, merchandise, and publications as needed.
Qualifications
- FAA Part 107 Certification (required).
- 2+ years of professional drone operation experience in live event or cinematic environments.
- Proven experience as an event or sports photographer, with a strong portfolio.
- Proficiency with DJI Inspire, Mavic, Avata, and related transmission systems.
- Skilled in DSLR and mirrorless photography systems, lenses, and lighting equipment.
- Strong understanding of FAA regulations and waivers (107.29, 107.39).
- Technical expertise with drone hardware/software, SDI/HDMI workflows, and live broadcast integration.
- Creative eye for composition, storytelling, and capturing fast-paced action.
- Comfortable working long hours outdoors in high-energy, time-sensitive environments.
- Physically capable of transporting and setting up camera gear and drone kits.
- FPV drone experience a plus.
Why Join Us?
This is more than a role—it’s the foundation of a new creative frontier at Road America. You’ll shape how fans see, feel, and experience our events by delivering stunning aerial views and dynamic trackside photography. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, have a passion for motorsports, and want to push the boundaries of event media, this is your chance to make a lasting impact at a world-class racing destination.
Lead Drone & Track Photography Specialist employer: Elkhart Lake's Road Amercia
Contact Detail:
Elkhart Lake's Road Amercia Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Drone & Track Photography Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best drone footage and photography. Make sure it’s easily accessible online—this is your chance to impress potential employers with your creative eye and technical expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Before you land that dream job, get as much hands-on experience as possible. Volunteer for local events or collaborate with friends on projects to refine your skills and build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing passionate candidates who are eager to join our team. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight how your unique skills can contribute to our innovative program at Road America.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Drone & Track Photography Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your drone operation and photography experience in your application. We want to see your best work, so include a portfolio that showcases your skills in capturing those breathtaking shots!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect how your experience aligns with the role. We love seeing candidates who understand what we’re all about at Road America.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure your passion for photography and drones shines through without any fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Elkhart Lake's Road Amercia
✨Know Your Gear Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the drone models and photography equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarise yourself with the DJI Inspire, Mavic, and Avata, as well as DSLR and mirrorless systems. Being able to discuss your technical expertise confidently will show that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Bring along a strong portfolio that highlights your best work in drone operation and event photography. Include a variety of shots that demonstrate your creative eye and ability to capture fast-paced action. This is your chance to visually tell your story, so make it count!
✨Understand FAA Regulations
Brush up on FAA regulations relevant to drone operations, especially those related to live events. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance and safety during flights. Showing that you take these regulations seriously will reflect your professionalism and commitment to safe practices.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about potential challenges you might face during live events, such as technical issues or tight deadlines. Prepare to discuss how you would troubleshoot these problems and collaborate with production teams. Demonstrating your problem-solving skills and teamwork will set you apart from other candidates.