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Drone Inspection Power Line Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Failure Analysis Engineer

Hayward, CA ยท On-site

$90 - $140/hr

... diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in ... Printed Circuit Boards (PCB/PCBA), Power distribution systems, Battery Management Systems (BMS ...

Quality Inspector

Azusa, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Generate First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) * Support Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP ... Friends & Family discount on our top-line power-enhancing products * Employee discount programs ...

Mission Operator - UAV

Paso Robles, CA ยท On-site

$24.25 - $29.75/hr

S. forces overwhelming, adaptable, and autonomous power across every domain. Fury enables human ... You'll lead the drone operator team, own the flight test pipeline, and run the live customer ...

Senior Manufacturing Test Engineer

Hayward, CA ยท On-site

$147K - $210K/yr

... diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in ... Take ownership of end-to-end manufacturing test readiness for an entire product line, ensuring that ...

The drone is only 15% of what we've built to enable seamless, reliable, global operations. Our ... inspection, diagnostics, and end-of-line testing. * Verify that corrective actions address the ...

... diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in ... line in our target markets. How you'll make an impact * Own wireless software + hardware testing ...

Travel to job sites to inspect, diagnose, and repair equipment. Perform routine and emergency ... substations, power line construction sites, and service yards depending on operational demands.

Flight Test Engineer - Wireless

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

... diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in ... line in our target markets. How you'll make an impact: * Own wireless software + hardware testing ...

Line Lead Associate

Vernon, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Conduct quality inspections to ensure products meet company standards * Troubleshoot mechanical ... Hands-on experience with assembly lines, hand tools, power tools, and mechanical systems

Travel to job sites to inspect, diagnose, and repair equipment. Perform routine and emergency ... substations, power line construction sites, and service yards depending on operational demands.

FPV Technician

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We ... Pre-flight and post-flight inspections and functional checks on testing equipment * Record test ...

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We ... Pre-flight and post-flight inspections and functional checks on testing equipment * Record test ...

Travel to job sites to inspect, diagnose, and repair equipment. Perform routine and emergency ... substations, power line construction sites, and service yards depending on operational demands.

Showing results 41-60

Drone Inspection Power Line information

See California salary details

$12

$18

$27

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone inspection power line in California is $18.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone inspection power line?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone inspection power line technician?

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.

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.

How much do drone inspection power line professionals get paid?

Drone inspection power line professionals typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled operators with specialized training and certifications may earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high demand for infrastructure inspections.

How to get into drone inspection power line?

To pursue a drone inspection power line job, gain experience in drone operation and obtain relevant certifications such as Part 107 from the FAA. Develop skills in aerial surveying, electrical infrastructure, and safety protocols, and consider working for companies specializing in utility inspections or related fields.

What job categories do people searching Drone Inspection Power Line jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Inspection Power Line jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Drone Inspection Power Line jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drone Inspection Power Line job openings:

Infographic showing various Drone Inspection Power Line job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,301 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Failure Analysis Engineer

Doist

Hayward, CA โ€ข On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Other

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in battlefield scenarios, and beyond.

About the role:

We are seeking a talented multi-disciplinary quality engineer to define, implement, and continuously improve quality processes. In this role, your contributions will directly drive product quality, speed to market, productivity, and profitability.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Failure Analysis Engineer to investigate, diagnose, and resolve failures in drone systems and subsystems. The ideal candidate will possess strong expertise in electrical, electronic, and electromechanical components, including PCBs, power electronics, batteries, cameras, sensors, communication modules, motors, ESCs, GPS, IMUs, and embedded systems. The role involves performing systematic root-causes analysis, collaborating with cross-functional teams, driving corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), and improving product reliability throughout the product lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities
  • Failure Investigation & Root Cause Analysis
  • Perform detailed failure analysis on returned products, manufacturing defects, field failures, and reliability test failures.
  • Investigate failures related to: Printed Circuit Boards (PCB/PCBA), Power distribution systems, Battery Management Systems (BMS), Electronic Speed Controllers (ESC), Brushless DC motors, Cameras and imaging systems, Vision modules, GPS modules, IMU (Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer), Barometers and other environmental sensors, RF communication modules, Flight controllers, Wiring harnesses and connectors, Electromechanical assemblies.
  • Conduct systematic root cause analysis using methodologies such as: 8D, 5 Why, Fishbone Diagram, Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Pareto Analysis.
  • Diagnostic & Test Activities: Develop and execute diagnostic procedures for failed products. Perform electrical measurements using: Oscilloscope, Digital Multimeter, Logic Analyzer, Spectrum Analyzer (preferred), Power Analyzer, Thermal Camera. Interpret circuit schematics, PCB layouts, and wiring diagrams. Conduct functional, environmental, and stress testing to reproduce failures.
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