Become aRemote Controlled Vehicle Operators

Becoming a Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator means you get to turn your love for gadgets and technology into a rewarding career. You’ll have the chance to work with high tech equipment, explore new environments, and use your skills to solve real life problems. Plus, who wouldn’t want to get paid to play with remote controlled toys all day?

• Control all types of vehicles from afar.
• Be part of exciting technological advancements.
• Operate vehicles in diverse environments, even in space!
• Play a key role in robotics and automation.

A Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator uses handheld controllers or computer systems to operate vehicles and machines from a distance. This could include drones for aerial photography, robotic arms for manufacturing, underwater vehicles for exploration, or even remote controlled cars for entertainment.

Remote controlled vehicle operators require additional skills to those used to drive traditional vehicles. They must be trained to use the different control and display technologies, which may include virtual reality simulations of where the vehicles are in the real world. Operators must have good spatial awareness and be able to consistently and reliably control the vehicles.

Remote Controlled Vehicle Operators have the flexibility to work in various industries where remote controlled technology is used to perform tasks efficiently and safely.

• Film and Media
  • Capturing aerial shots for movies, documentaries, and commercials.
• Construction and Engineering
  • Operating drones for surveying, mapping, and monitoring construction sites.
• Entertainment
  • Racing remote controlled cars or flying drones for recreational purposes.
• Search and Rescue
  • Using drones and robots to search for missing persons or assess disaster areas.
• Agriculture
  • Monitoring crops and livestock with aerial drones for precision farming.
• Science and Research
  • Exploring remote or hazardous environments with robotic vehicles for scientific studies.

To excel as a Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator, you’ll need a mix of technical skills and practical abilities to operate various types of vehicles and machines.

• Hand eye coordination
• Problem Solving
• Attention to detail
• Spatial awareness
• Communication
• Adaptability

Getting focused in your STEM subjects can help you develop the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator.

• Technology
  • Understanding the principles of electronics, robotics, and remote control systems.
• Mathematics
  • Applying mathematical concepts like geometry and trigonometry to calculate distances and angles.
• Physics
  • Learning about forces, motion, and energy to understand how vehicles move and operate.
• Engineering
  • Developing skills in design, construction, and maintenance of remote-controlled vehicles and systems.
• Geography
  • Studying maps and spatial relationships for navigation and route planning.
• Communication
  • Improving your ability to convey instructions and information effectively to team members and operators.

As a Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator, you get to do some seriously cool stuff! Imagine flying drones to capture breathtaking aerial footage, driving remote-controlled cars in high-speed races, or operating underwater robots to explore the depths of the ocean. You might even use remote-controlled vehicles for scientific research or to save lives in search and rescue missions. The possibilities are expanding daily, and each day is an adventure!

Pilot drones in extreme environments
Control drones to explore areas such as volcanos or polar regions, gathering crucial data for scientific research.

Guide underwater robots to deep-sea locations
Operate remotely controlled submersibles, allowing you to explore shipwrecks or map the ocean floor from a distance.

Work on remote mining vehicles
Pilot massive trucks or machinery in remote mining locations, helping extract resources without being on site.

Test and develop cutting-edge RC technology
Work with engineers to test and improve the functionality of remote-controlled vehicles for various industries.

Operate rescue robots in disaster zones
Help emergency services by controlling robots designed to navigate dangerous environments after natural disasters or accidents.

Conduct maintenance on remote industrial machines
Use remote-controlled systems to carry out maintenance and inspections on machinery in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas.

Australia has a number of talented women making strides in the field of remote controlled vehicle operations, working across industries from mining to robotics.

Dr. Catherine Ball
Dr. Ball is a leader in drone technology and has been instrumental in using drones for environmental and humanitarian purposes. Her work focuses on how drone technology can be used to address real-world challenges.

Dr. Karen Joyce
A geospatial scientist and drone operator, Dr. Joyce co-founded She Maps to inspire young women to enter the world of drone technology. She uses drones for environmental research and education.

Andrea Boyd
Andrea Boyd works with the European Space Agency and is involved in operating robotic vehicles and spacecraft. Her expertise helps control complex machines in space exploration, with applications on Earth as well.

Julie Hammer
A former Air Vice-Marshal, Julie Hammer has vast experience in leading technical operations, including the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in military and strategic settings.

Other notable Australians in Remote Controlled Vehicle Operations:

While the term “Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator” might not be widely recognised, many Australians have made significant contributions to fields related to remote controlled technology. Individuals like Brett Collis, a renowned drone pilot and aerial photographer, Brad Farmer, who designs and races remote controlled cars, and Sophie Harker, an engineer specialising in underwater robotics, are leading the way in using remote controlled vehicles for various applications.

In addition to technical skills, being a successful Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator requires certain personality traits that help you navigate the challenges of operating vehicles and machines from a distance.

• Patient
• Focused
• Creative
• Adventurous
• Resourceful
• Team player

A degree in engineering, robotics, or remote technology provides the foundation for this career. Here are some possibilities:

Bachelor of Engineering (Robotics and Mechatronics)
This degree focuses on the design and control of robotic systems, including remote-controlled vehicles. Students at Curtin University in Western Australia can specialise in automation and remote technologies.

Bachelor of Science (Drone Technology)
For those specifically interested in drones, this degree covers piloting, programming, and maintaining unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), preparing students for work in industries such as logistics, agriculture, and defence.

Bachelor of Computer Science (Autonomous Systems)
This course focuses on AI and software development for remotely controlled and autonomous vehicles, preparing students for careers in this growing field.

• Bachelor of Engineering (Robotics)
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering
• Bachelor of Technology (Remote Systems)
• Diploma in Unmanned Aircraft Systems
• Certificate in Remote Vehicle Operations

Mix and Match

As a Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator, you have the freedom to mix and match different fields of study. Consider combining degrees in engineering with computer science, or technology with aviation. This interdisciplinary approach allows you to develop a broad range of skills that are essential for success in the field.

Hands-On Learning

Don’t just stick to the classroom! Seek out hands-on learning opportunities like internships, apprenticeships, or workshops. Whether you’re tinkering with robots in a lab or flying drones in the field, these experiences will give you valuable practical skills and insights into the world of remote-controlled vehicles.

Continuous Learning

The learning doesn’t stop after you graduate. Stay curious and keep exploring new technologies, techniques, and applications in the field of remote-controlled vehicles. Take advantage of online courses, conferences, and networking events to stay ahead of the curve and unlock new opportunities in your career.

During your studies to become a Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator, you’ll learn a wide range of skills and knowledge that are essential for success in the field. You’ll study topics like robotics, computer programming, aerodynamics, and electronics to understand how remote-controlled vehicles work and how to operate them effectively.

You’ll also learn about safety protocols, regulations, and best practices for operating remote-controlled vehicles in different environments. Whether you’re flying drones, driving robots, or piloting remote-controlled cars, you’ll develop the skills and confidence to operate these vehicles safely and responsibly.

Gain work experience in the field of remote controlled vehicles through internships, apprenticeships, or part-time jobs. Look for opportunities to work with experienced operators and learn from their expertise. Whether you’re assisting with drone flights, conducting tests on robotic systems, or troubleshooting technical issues, every experience will help you build valuable skills and connections in the industry.

If traditional university degrees aren’t for you, there are alternative pathways to becoming a Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator:

Vocational Training and Certifications
Vocational training provides practical experience with remote-controlled systems, often with a focus on specific industries.

Certificate IV in Aviation (Remote Pilot)
This course focuses on drone piloting and operation, covering the legal and technical skills needed to fly drones for commercial purposes.

Diploma of Robotics and Automation
A hands-on diploma that teaches students to operate and maintain robotics and automation systems, including remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).

Micro-Learning and Online Courses
For those looking to build specific skills, online courses in drone technology and remote vehicle operations are widely available.

Introduction to Drone Operations
A course covering the basics of drone technology, from piloting to the laws governing their use.

Operating Remote-Controlled Submersibles
Learn to control underwater vehicles for applications in industries like oil exploration, research, and maritime archaeology.

Workplace Experience

Look for positions or apprenticeships with companies that specialise in remote controlled vehicles. You’ll learn on the job and gain practical experience while earning a salary.

Make tracks to a career where you can drive, fly, and explore with the power of remote controlled technology!

Western Australia

In Western Australia, opportunities for Remote Controlled Vehicle Operators are growing, especially in industries like mining, agriculture, and environmental monitoring.

Companies like Rio Tinto use autonomous and remote-controlled vehicles in their mining operations, offering opportunities for skilled operators. Similarly, Woodside Energy employs remote technology to monitor and maintain offshore oil and gas platforms. Curtin University offers programs that support students entering this field, with a focus on automation and robotics in heavy industries.

Australia

Nationally, Australia is at the forefront of using remote-controlled technology in various sectors. Transurban, a major infrastructure company, is exploring how remote-controlled vehicles can improve road maintenance and safety. The agricultural sector is also adopting remote systems, with companies like Agerris developing robotic systems for farming. Defence and emergency services are major employers, with roles in controlling drones and other vehicles for surveillance and rescue operations.

Rest of the World

Globally, remote-controlled vehicle operators are in demand across industries such as space exploration, logistics, and environmental research. In the US, companies like Boston Dynamics are developing robots and remote systems for industrial and rescue applications. European organisations such as Seabed Geosolutions use remotely operated submersibles to map ocean floors. In Asia, firms like DJI lead the way in drone technology, offering opportunities for skilled operators in multiple sectors.

Whether you’re interested in working close to home or exploring opportunities abroad, the world is your playground as a Remote Controlled Vehicle Operator!