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Drone Inspection Power Line Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Emerald Staffing

Drone Operator

Medford, OR

$36 - $41/hr

... Power Line Asset Inspection * Capture high-resolution imagery, video, and thermal data (when ... drone-based infrastructure or utility inspections Experience inspecting transmission and/or ...

Kiewit

Drone Operator- Surveyor 1

Medford, OR · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Drone Operator - Transmission & Distribution Inspection Kiewit Power Delivery | Field-Based Role ... Power Line Asset Inspection Capture high-resolution imagery and video (and thermal data, if ...

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Perform specialized inspections * May instruct and supervise others * Perform other job-related ... pipeline, power generation, pulp & paper, mining, pharmaceutical, aerospace and automotive ...

Quanta Services

Field Safety Advisor

La Grande, OR

Conduct routine safety inspections under supervision * Identify common safety violations and non ... within power line construction) preferred * OSHA 30 certification and/or related safety ...

GFT.

$90K - $125K/yr

Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

GFT.

$90K - $125K/yr

Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

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All JobsDrone Inspection Power Line JobsDrone Inspection Power Line Jobs in Oregon

Drone Inspection Power Line information

See Oregon salary details

$13

$19

$29

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

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone inspection power line in Oregon is $19.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $19.33 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.
What are popular job titles related to Drone Inspection Power Line jobs in Oregon? For Drone Inspection Power Line jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Inspection Power Line jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Inspection Power Line jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Drone Inspection Power Line jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Drone Inspection Power Line job openings:
Drone Inspection Power Line jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Inspection Power Line job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,032 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Drone Operator- Surveyor 1

Drone Operator- Surveyor 1

Kiewit Corporation

Medford, OR

$75K - $85K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Kiewit Corporation rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 80 rated construction

Job description

Drone Operator - Transmission & Distribution Inspection
Kiewit Power Delivery | Field-Based Role
Position Overview
Kiewit is seeking a skilled Drone Operator to support inspection of overhead transmission and distribution (T&D) infrastructure for utility and energy projects across the U.S. This role focuses on conducting detailed aerial inspections of power line assets, capturing high-resolution data for condition assessment, and supporting maintenance, reliability, and engineering teams.
The ideal candidate has hands-on experience performing UAV-based utility inspections, understands structure and conductor components, and is comfortable working in active utility corridors and construction environments.
Key Responsibilities
Aerial Inspection Operations
Operate UAVs to perform detailed inspections of transmission and distribution systems, including structures, insulators, conductors, hardware, and associated assets.
Power Line Asset Inspection
Capture high-resolution imagery and video (and thermal data, if applicable) to identify defects such as damaged components, corrosion, vegetation encroachment, and clearance issues.
Right-of-Way (ROW) Assessment
Inspect and document vegetation conditions, encroachments, access routes, and environmental constraints along utility corridors.
Data Capture & Quality Assurance
Ensure consistent, repeatable data collection aligned with inspection standards and client requirements, maintaining high accuracy and reliability.
Data Processing & Deliverables
Process and organize inspection data into actionable outputs, including annotated imagery, inspection reports, and geospatial datasets for engineering and asset management teams.
Safety & Compliance
Conduct all UAV operations in compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations, Kiewit safety protocols, and client-specific utility requirements, including energized line considerations.
Project Coordination
Collaborate with utility clients, engineers, asset managers, and field teams to plan inspection missions, define data requirements, and deliver timely results.
Equipment Management
Maintain UAV platforms, sensors (visual and thermal), and support equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable field operations.
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Other Requirements:
    Regular, reliable attendance
    Work productively and meet deadlines timely
    Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment
    Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
    Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
    FIELD ROLES ONLY May work at various different locations and conditions may vary

Base Compensation: $75,000/yr - $85,000/yr

(Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)

We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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About Kiewit

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kiewit Infrastructure Engineering's Design-Build team is driving clients to turn to Kiewit during all stages of design-build projects. Through our integrated design and construction approach, our multi-disciplinary team works together to improve schedule, control costs and minimize risk. Our construction-focused engineers work collaboratively with our estimators and builders to design solutions that are innovative, constructible, and designed with a focus on safety. Clients benefit from the proven processes and tools used by Kiewit to minimize project risk. We are an in-house resource that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff shares experiences gained, innovative concepts, and best practices for all projects that we support.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1884

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