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Aerial Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Turnaround Communications Inc

Construction Supervisor

Fresno, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

... inspections and quality auditsPromote safe excavation, aerial construction, and traffic control practicesEnsure all work is completed according to customer and industry standardsWhat Success Looks ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

Oakland Zoo

Lift/Rides Mechanic

Oakland, CA · On-site

$27.65 - $35.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Document aerial tramway maintenance per the A.N.S.I. Code; participate in Gondola projects, inspections, procedures, and checklists. * Use assigned tools, rigging equipment, ropeway and track ...

Oakland Zoo

Lift/Rides Mechanic

Oakland, CA · On-site

$27.65 - $35.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Document aerial tramway maintenance per the A.N.S.I. Code; participate in Gondola projects, inspections, procedures, and checklists. * Use assigned tools, rigging equipment, ropeway and track ...

Oakland Zoo

Lift/Rides Mechanic

Oakland, CA · On-site

$27.65 - $35.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Document aerial tramway maintenance per the A.N.S.I. Code; participate in Gondola projects, inspections, procedures, and checklists. * Use assigned tools, rigging equipment, ropeway and track ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAerial Inspection JobsAerial Inspection Jobs in California

Aerial Inspection information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$59.6K

$88.3K

How much do aerial inspection jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial inspection in California is $59,555.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,400.00 and $69,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced in an aerial inspection role and how can they be addressed?

Aerial Inspection professionals often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, equipment malfunctions, and maintaining accurate data collection from difficult-to-access locations. To address these, inspectors typically undergo rigorous training on safety protocols, regularly maintain and calibrate their drones or aircraft, and collaborate closely with data analysts and engineers to ensure findings are actionable. Being adaptable and having strong problem-solving skills are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring inspections are both safe and effective.

What is aerial inspection?

Aerial inspection is the process of using aircraft, such as drones, helicopters, or planes, to survey and assess structures, land, or infrastructure from above. This method allows inspectors to safely and efficiently examine hard-to-reach areas like rooftops, power lines, pipelines, wind turbines, and large agricultural fields. Aerial inspection provides high-resolution images and data, which can be analyzed to detect damages, monitor changes, or ensure compliance with regulations. It is widely used in industries such as construction, energy, agriculture, and utilities for its cost-effectiveness and ability to reduce human risk.

What is the difference between Aerial Inspection vs Drone Operator?

AspectAerial InspectionDrone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107, specialized inspection trainingFAA Part 107, general drone operation
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, infrastructure, agricultureVaried locations, recreational, commercial
Industry UsageInspection, surveying, monitoringPhotography, videography, recreational flying

While both roles involve drone operation, Aerial Inspection focuses on using drones for detailed inspections of infrastructure, buildings, or landscapes, requiring specialized training. Drone Operators may perform a broader range of activities, including photography and recreational flying, with less emphasis on inspection-specific skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerial inspection specialist?

To thrive as an Aerial Inspection Specialist, you need expertise in UAV/drone operation, knowledge of inspection protocols, and relevant certifications such as FAA Part 107. Familiarity with drone flight planning software, high-resolution imaging tools, and data analysis platforms is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, accurate, and efficient inspection processes in industries like infrastructure, energy, and agriculture.

What are popular job titles related to Aerial Inspection jobs in California?

For Aerial Inspection jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aerial Inspection jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerial Inspection jobs in California are:

Aerial Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Inspection job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,555 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Electrical Inspector I

Pride Resource Partners LLC

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time, Per diem

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description:

Pride Resource Partners is seeking experienced Power Line Field Inspectors (Electric Distribution Inspector) to perform detailed overhead infrastructure inspections for transmission and distribution systems. This position plays a critical role in identifying asset conditions, documenting field findings, and supporting risk-informed maintenance programs designed to enhance grid reliability and wildfire prevention.

Inspectors are responsible for performing both ground-based and aerial-assisted inspections (in coordination with a drone pilot teammate), capturing high-resolution imagery, and documenting conditions in accordance with company quality standards and governing construction and maintenance codes.


Key Responsibilities

  • Perform visual and photographic inspections of overhead transmission and distribution assets following prescribed inspection methodologies.
  • Identify and document asset conditions requiring maintenance, repair, or data correction using standardized inspection tools and software.
  • Capture high-quality imagery from the ground or via UAS collaboration, ensuring complete 360° structure coverage and accurate structure association.
  • Prepare and upload inspection data, photographs, and notifications to secure cloud systems with accuracy and timeliness.
  • Apply inspection codes, component identifiers, and defect classifications in accordance with governing construction standards.
  • Conduct pre-job tailboards, complete daily safety briefings, and adhere to all Safety Management System (SMS) protocols.
  • Communicate field constraints, access limitations, or environmental sensitivities through established reporting channels.
  • Engage respectfully with property owners, customers, and the public to facilitate inspection access and field coordination.
  • Support quality review processes and corrective actions when required.
  • Participate in safety meetings, orientation sessions, and ongoing refresher training.
  • Work as part of a 2-person team to conduct all inspections while maintaining strict adherence to safety policies and procedures.
Requirements:
  • Minimum 18 months of experience performing overhead electrical utility inspections or equivalent field construction experience within the past 3 years. Applicants with less than 18 months of experience are still encouraged to apply. Other open positions are available for those that qualify.
  • Strong understanding of overhead electrical systems, including pole-top equipment, conductors, and hardware.
  • Ability to read and interpret utility standards, work orders, and structure maps.
  • Proficiency with tablet- or mobile-based inspection software and structured data entry tools.
  • Experience documenting photographic evidence with digital cameras or mobile capture systems.
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record; ability to travel daily throughout assigned regions.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience in transmission or distribution inspection programs, vegetation management, or pole assessments.
  • Familiarity with General Orders 95 and 165 or equivalent regulatory standards.
  • Understanding of utility priority notification systems and maintenance classification processes.
  • OSHA 10 or 30 Construction Safety Certification.
  • Experience collaborating with UAS flight teams or remote inspection programs.
  • Background in electrical, civil, or structural field work.

Work Environment & Expectations

  • Field-based role with work in outdoor and remote environments.
  • May include extended hours or weekend work to meet inspection schedules.
  • Must maintain compliance with all safety protocols and SMS.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 65 lbs. of equipment.

Compensation & Schedule

  • Full-time position with competitive hourly rate.
  • Per diem, hotel, travel reimbursement, and field allowances paid per project guidelines.
  • Multi-year inspection programs with opportunity for advancement and extended project assignments.

About Pride Resource Partners

Since 2015, the team at Pride Resource Partners has delivered high-value project management, inspection services, and aerial operations support for major utility and infrastructure clients across the western United States. Our team integrates advanced technology, data analytics, and safety best practices to deliver precision, reliability, and operational excellence across every project we manage.

Our inspection teams uphold the highest standards of compliance, accuracy, and quality to help our clients maintain a reliable, resilient, and wildfire-safe electrical grid.

Learn more about our team: www.PrideRP.com