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Drone Inspection Power Line Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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We have inspected over one million utility structures, pioneered one of the first utility drone ... The Role We are hiring experienced Utility Power Line Inspectors for an overhead distribution ...

Overhead Power Line Specialist

Aurora, CO · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Overview We are seeking an Overhead Power Line Specialist to join the Technical Services Division ... inspection strategies, to ensure alignment with corporate standards, integrity and longevity of ...

Overhead Power Line Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Overview We are seeking an Overhead Power Line Specialist to join the Technical Services Division ... inspection strategies, to ensure alignment with corporate standards, integrity and longevity of ...

Overhead Power Line Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Overview We are seeking an Overhead Power Line Specialist to join the Technical Services Division ... inspection strategies, to ensure alignment with corporate standards, integrity and longevity of ...

Line Mechanic-C-A

Abilene, TX

$17.50 - $22/hr

Assemble, install, maintain, remove and competently inspect overhead, and underground facilities ... Minimum of one year distribution electrical power line work experience, OR one year of related line ...

Line Mechanic-C-A

Abilene, TX

$17.50 - $22/hr

Assemble, install, maintain, remove and competently inspect overhead, and underground facilities ... Minimum of one year distribution electrical power line work experience, OR one year of related line ...

Help train and mentor crew members in best practices for power line installation and construction processes. Conduct regular inspections of equipment and materials to ensure quality standards are met.

Assemble, install, maintain, remove and competently inspect overhead, and underground facilities ... Minimum of one year distribution electrical power line work experience, * OR one year of related ...

... and inspection of electrical transmission and distribution facilities, drive and operate line ... Minimum of one year distribution electrical power line work experience, OR one year of related line ...

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Drone Inspection Power Line information

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$12

$18

$27

How much do drone inspection power line jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone inspection power line in the United States is $18.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are drone inspection power line jobs?

Drone inspection power line jobs involve using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to survey and inspect electrical power lines and related infrastructure. Operators capture high-resolution images and videos to detect faults, vegetation encroachment, or structural issues without the need for physical climbing or helicopters. This role improves safety, efficiency, and accuracy in maintaining power grids, and often requires knowledge of drone piloting, data analysis, and electrical systems.

What are some common challenges faced by drone inspectors when assessing power lines, and how can they be addressed?

Drone inspectors working with power lines often encounter challenges such as navigating difficult terrain, dealing with weather conditions, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They must also manage battery life and maintain clear communication with ground teams to avoid hazards. To address these challenges, inspectors usually undergo specialized training, use advanced flight planning software, and follow strict operational protocols to ensure both data accuracy and safety during inspections.

What is the difference between Drone Inspection Power Line vs Drone Lineman?

AspectDrone Inspection Power LineDrone Lineman
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot CertificateClimbing and safety certifications, possibly FAA Part 107
Work EnvironmentAerial inspections, remote locations, using dronesClimbing poles, working at heights, on power lines
Industry UsageUtility companies, inspection servicesUtility companies, maintenance crews

Drone Inspection Power Line specialists focus on aerial inspections using drones, requiring remote pilot certifications, and work primarily in remote or elevated environments. Drone Linemen perform physical work on power lines, often climbing poles and towers, with safety and climbing certifications. Both roles are essential in utility maintenance but differ significantly in work environment and required skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drone Inspection Power Line Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Inspection Power Line Technician, you need expertise in UAV operation, electrical systems knowledge, and often a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Experience with drone mapping software, thermal imaging cameras, and GIS systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help technicians accurately identify issues and report findings. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable inspection of power lines, minimizing downtime and enhancing grid safety.
More about Drone Inspection Power Line jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Inspection Power Line jobs? Cities with the most Drone Inspection Power Line job openings:
What states have the most Drone Inspection Power Line jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Inspection Power Line jobs include:
Infographic showing various Drone Inspection Power Line job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,809 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Utility Power Line Inspector - Overhead Distribution Inspection (ODI)

Utility Power Line Inspector - Overhead Distribution Inspection (ODI)

C2 Group

San Diego, CA • On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

About C2 Group

C2 Group is a San Diego-based, woman-owned engineering and program management firm that has been redefining how utilities approach infrastructure since 2016. We have inspected over one million utility structures, pioneered one of the first utility drone inspection programs in California, and built a team of 150+ professionals who operate at the intersection of field expertise and technology. Our clients include the largest investor-owned utilities in the country, and our work directly supports wildfire mitigation, grid reliability, and public safety across the Western U.S.

We are not a staffing company that deploys bodies. We are a firm that builds inspectors, invests in people, and delivers results that our clients trust. If you want to work somewhere that values precision, rewards initiative, and gives you a real career path, keep reading.

The Role

We are hiring experienced Utility Power Line Inspectors for an overhead distribution inspection (ODI) program in Southern California. You will operate as a one-person field unit, performing comprehensive 360-degree visual inspections of electric utility distribution structures. This is a road-based role: you will work across Southern California, moving between circuits and territories as the program requires.

You will be part of a structured team supported by onsite supervisors, safety management, QA/QC personnel, and a back-office data support team. While you work independently in the field, you are never operating alone.

What You Will Do

  • Perform detailed 360-degree visual inspections of overhead distribution structures including wood monopoles, light-duty steel poles, tubular steel poles, wood H-frames, and combination structures.
  • Identify and document deficiencies including exempt and non-exempt equipment conditions, conductor clearance violations, damaged equipment/structures/hardware, building and ground clearance violations, and imminent hazardous conditions.
  • Apply California General Order 95 and General Order 165 minimum standards throughout every inspection.
  • Create structure and equipment deficiency reports (notifications) using iPad-based field tools, with clear, detailed, and accurate documentation.
  • Update GIS records to reflect current field conditions with accuracy and consistency.
  • Maintain a high standard of data quality, meeting or exceeding QA/QC benchmarks throughout the inspection cycle.

Qualifications

Required

  • Minimum 2 years of experience (3+ preferred) in one or more of the following: electrical transmission/distribution line work, groundsman work, or utility inspections.
  • Working knowledge of overhead electrical distribution systems, components, hardware, and common failure modes.
  • Familiarity with California G.O. 95 and G.O. 165 standards, or demonstrated ability to learn and apply regulatory inspection criteria quickly.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation. This role requires daily travel across Southern California.
  • Comfort working independently in varied field conditions: weather, terrain, access challenges, and long days.

What Sets Strong Candidates Apart

  • Prior experience with utility inspection programs for California IOUs (SCE, PG&E, SDG&E) or similar utilities.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with iPad-based data collection tools and GIS applications.
  • Strong written communication skills, particularly in creating clear, defensible inspection reports.
  • Integrity, attention to detail, and the judgment to identify and escalate critical findings in real time.
  • A growth mindset. We invest in people who want to learn, lead, and expand their technical capabilities over time.

Training

C2 Group provides up to two weeks of intensive training combining office-based instruction and field deployment. Training covers safety protocols, situational awareness, C2's inspection methodologies, damage identification standards, and documentation requirements. Upon completion, you will deploy directly to active inspection circuits. Our QA/QC and supervisory teams continue to support your development beyond initial training.

Work Schedule and Location

  • This is a full-time, field-based role operating on the road across Southern California.
  • Schedules align with client requirements, utility commission-mandated deadlines, and seasonal inspection milestones.
  • Shifts may range from 8 to 12 hours depending on program phase, with standard Monday through Friday scheduling and occasional weekend availability as needed.

Work Location: On the road

Company Description

Work that matters: Our projects support California's power grid, EV infrastructure buildout, and wildfire resilience
Growth path: Clear trajectory from engineer to senior engineer to project manager; we promote from within
Modern tools: We use AI, automation, and cutting-edge software to streamline workflows
PE support: If you're an EIT, we'll help you get your license with mentorship and study time
Team culture: Transparent, communicative, and genuinely collaborative, leadership listens