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Drone Base Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Field Drone Technician

Huntington Beach, CA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

The Role Mach Industries is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Field Drone Technician to support ... base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience ...

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Drone Base information

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$26.5K

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How much do drone base jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone base in the United States is $72,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities and work environment for a Drone Base Operator?

Drone Base Operators are responsible for planning, executing, and monitoring unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flights for purposes like aerial inspections, mapping, photography, or surveying. They often work both outdoors at various sites and indoors for mission planning and data analysis, sometimes traveling to client locations. Collaboration with engineers, surveyors, or project managers is common to ensure data accuracy and mission objectives are met. Roles can be dynamic, requiring adaptability to weather conditions and specific project needs, which keeps the work engaging and offers opportunities to develop expertise in specialized drone applications.

What is a Drone Base job?

A Drone Base job typically involves piloting drones for various purposes, such as aerial photography, surveying, mapping, or inspections. These jobs can be freelance, contract-based, or full-time positions with companies that utilize drone technology. Pilots may work in industries like real estate, construction, agriculture, or infrastructure inspection. Requirements often include FAA certification (such as Part 107 in the U.S.), experience with drone operation, and knowledge of relevant software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Drone Base position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Base Operator, you typically need proficiency in remote piloting, strong spatial awareness, and an understanding of aviation safety protocols, often supported by FAA Part 107 certification. Familiarity with drone control software, GPS navigation systems, and real-time data collection tools is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators adapt to diverse scenarios and coordinate with teams. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, accurate, and efficient drone operations across various industries.

More about Drone Base jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Base jobs? Cities with the most Drone Base job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Base jobs? The most popular types of Drone Base jobs are:
What states have the most Drone Base jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Base jobs include:

Drone & Field Operations Specialist

SKIPPER NDT CORP

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Field Operations Specialist

If you have experience in field GIS surveys, pipeline surveys, pipeline cathodic protection, close interval surveys, right of way surveys, ILI tool tracking, or pipeline and industrial facility inspections utilizing drone deployments, this role may be your next career move! As part of our continued expansion in North America, Skipper NDT is looking for a qualified Field Operations Specialist to join our Team in Houston, Tx.ย 
This role will ensure field deployment excellence for Skipper NDT's advanced magnetic data acquisition systems while building partnerships through comprehensive training and technical support. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with client relationship management to expand our market presence and ensure operational success across North America.
Key Responsibilities

Field Operations & Data Acquisition

  • Deploy and operate Skipper NDT's magnetic data acquisition technologies (drone and land-based) in diverse field environments, ensuring successful data collection and adherence to operational procedures and project specifications
  • Execute comprehensive field operations including equipment validation, vector selection optimization, current injection, establishing GIS base stations and GIS based control point acquisition, vector deployment (drone and land-based), QHSE compliance, real-time data quality assessment, and efficient mobilization/demobilization activities
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during field execution, maintaining professional relationships and addressing and resolving technical inquiries
  • Effectively liaise with key Skipper NDT and client personnel throughout project lifecycle to ensure operational excellence and safe execution to deliver an outstanding customer experience. ย 
  • Maintain detailed documentation of field operations, technical issues, and recommended improvements
Partner Support

  • Provide ongoing mentorship and technical support to certified partners, ensuring consistent service delivery across all deployments
  • Provide field support to certified partners as required
Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

  • Minimum of 2 years of progressive field operations experience in performing land surveying, pipeline surveys, right-of-way surveys, or drone based inspection techniques for the oil & gas, energy, or utility industries
Preferred:
ย 
  • Associateโ€™s degree in Applied Sciences or related technical discipline.
  • Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (drone license) with clean operating recordย 
Technical Expertise

  • Working knowledge of GIS systems, base stations, and GIS data acquisition principles. ย 
  • Comprehensive knowledge of UAV systems, flight planning, and deployment
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with experience in equipment operation and maintenance
  • Proficiency in data acquisition, analysis, and validation techniques
  • Understanding of QHSE standards and regulatory compliance requirements in the oil & gas, energy, and utility industriesย 
Professional Skills

  • Strong verbal and written communication abilitiesย 
  • Proven ability to work independently in challenging field environments while maintaining safety and quality standards
  • Strong problem-solving skills with ability to make critical decisions under pressure
  • Strong organizational skills, capable of managing multiple, complex tasks simultaneously. ย 
  • Must be process and procedure focused with dedication to documentation, quality and safety. ย 
  • Customer service oriented.
ย Travel Requirements

  • Ability to travel up to 75% within assigned territory, including extended field assignments
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Valid passport or ability to acquire
  • Flexibility to work irregular hours based on project demands and client schedules
Physical Requirements

ยทย  ย  ย  ย Capable of lifting 50 lbs. or greater
ยทย  ย  ย  ย Walking large distances over varying terrainsย 
ยทย  ย  ย  ย Working outside for extended periods of time and potentially in adverse weather conditions
ยทย  ย  ย  ย Ability to assemble, test, and troubleshoot field equipment on-site
ยทย  ย  ย  ย Must meet DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements, including pre-employment screening, random testing, and post-ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  accident testing
ยทย  ย  ย  ย Must pass DOT physical examination and maintain valid DOT medical certification
ยทย  ย  ย  ย TWIC card or ability to obtain TWIC card required

ย Skipper NDT is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.ย 

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