Reality Capture Engineer

Job Description:

We are seeking a Reality Capture Engineer to support the continued growth of our reality capture program by performing hands-on data collection across our Mission Critical job sites and regional offices. This role is focused on the daily deployment, operation, and maintenance of cutting-edge capture technologies, working to translate real-world site conditions into high-quality digital assets that support various construction coordination, safety assessment, progress tracking, and quality assurance workflows.

As a Reality Capture Engineer, you will be primarily responsible for collaborating directly with field teams, VDC staff, data analysts, and project leadership to ensure the timely, accurate, and high-quality capture of site conditions using tools such as drones, terrestrial laser scanners, 360 cameras, and other sensor-based technologies. You will support both active and scheduled capture activities and ensure outputs are aligned with project goals.

As a Reality Capture Engineer, you are the boots-on-the-ground force that brings Ryan's digital jobsite vision to life. Your ability to safely, efficiently, and accurately collect data fuels the insights used by project teams, executives, and AI systems alike.

This role may require regular travel to job sites across regions to support reality capture operations on various projects, particularly those outside your home location.

Some things you can expect to do:

• Perform On-Site Capture Activities - Travel to local and remote job sites and offices to perform scheduled and on-demand data collection using a variety of tools including 360 cameras, drones, total stations, terrestrial and SLAM laser scanners, GPR, and robotic systems.
• Operate and Troubleshoot Equipment - Set up, calibrate, operate, and troubleshoot reality capture hardware in dynamic field conditions. Ensure all data is collected safely, securely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications.
• Process and Deliver Field Data - Post-process imagery, point clouds, and georeferenced datasets for integration into BIM platforms, coordination tools, and downstream systems. Deliver clean, organized outputs to support VDC, Data Insights, and Artificial Intelligence teams.
• Support VDC and Field Teams - Collaborate closely with field superintendents, project engineers, and VDC staff to proactively apply reality capture tools and techniques to solve complex construction challenges. Ensure capture activities are aligned with the current phase of work, coordination needs, and project timelines.
• Maintain Equipment Readiness - Track, maintain, and calibrate assigned capture equipment. Ensure all tools are fully operational and prepared for field use, shipment, or handoff as needed.

You will really stand out if you:

• 3-7 years of experience in construction, survey, VDC/BIM, geospatial technology, or similar field roles.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in active construction environments.
• Hands-on experience operating drones, laser scanners, total stations, and GPR systems.
• Strong organizational skills for managing large files, naming conventions, and transfer processes.
• Comfortable traveling frequently (up to 50-75%) to support project teams in various regions as demand requires.
• FAA Part 107 certification (preferred or willingness to obtain).
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset are essential.
• Familiarity with tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, ReCap, DroneDeploy, Pix4D suite, Trimble FieldLink, NavVis IVION, FARO Scene, Leica Cyclone, and similar.

Eligibility:

• Positions require verification of employment eligibility to work in the U.S.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary

• Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
• Retirement and Savings Benefits
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life Insurance
• Educational Assistance
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Parenting Benefits
• Long-term Disability
• Ryan Foundation - charitable matching funds
• Paid Time for Volunteer Events

Ryan Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Non-Solicitation Notice to Recruitment Agencies:

Ryan Companies kindly requests that recruitment agencies and third-party recruiters do not submit unsolicited resumes or candidate information to any Ryan Companies employee or office. Ryan Companies will not be responsible for any fees or expenses associated with unsolicited submissions. If recruitment services are required, we will reach out directly to agencies on our approved vendor list. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.