1

Drone Inspector Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Conduct equipment inspections, document flight activity, and maintain UAV logs and records. Assist ... Police protocols, drone equipment, mechanics, and operation; evidence preservation Skill in ...

Conduct equipment inspections, document flight activity, and maintain UAV logs and records ... Police protocols, drone equipment, mechanics, and operation; evidence preservation Skill in ...

... condition or inspection workflows, and integration of GIS with enterprise asset management systems * FAA Part 107 Drone License and familiarity with Imagery and LiDAR derivative products.

... condition or inspection workflows, and integration of GIS with enterprise asset management systems * FAA Part 107 Drone License and familiarity with Imagery and LiDAR derivative products.

Drone Inspector information

See Minnesota salary details

$24K

$53.8K

$97K

How much do drone inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone inspector in Minnesota is $53,808.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $62,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone inspector?

A Drone Inspector is responsible for assessing drones for safety, functionality, and regulatory compliance. They inspect, test, and troubleshoot drones used in industries such as construction, agriculture, and infrastructure inspection. This role may involve reviewing flight logs, performing maintenance, and ensuring adherence to aviation regulations. Inspectors may work for government agencies, private companies, or as independent contractors. Strong technical knowledge of drone systems, flight operations, and industry regulations is essential for success in this field.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a drone inspector?

A Drone Inspector is responsible for planning inspection flights, operating drones to capture high-resolution images or video, and analyzing data to assess the condition of infrastructure such as roofs, towers, pipelines, or bridges. They must document findings, create inspection reports, and communicate results to clients or project teams. The role often involves collaborating with engineers, safety personnel, or maintenance teams to prioritize issues and recommend next steps. Routine equipment checks and maintaining compliance with aviation regulations are also key parts of the job.

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

To thrive as a Drone Inspector, you need a solid understanding of drone operation, aerial imaging, and inspection protocols, often backed by a remote pilot certification (such as Part 107 in the U.S.). Familiarity with inspection software, data analysis tools, and various types of drone hardware is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities are essential to ensure safety, compliance, and accuracy when conducting inspections and delivering actionable reports.

How much do drone inspectors get paid?

Drone inspectors typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Certifications in drone operation and safety can influence salary levels, and some roles may offer additional compensation for specialized skills or overtime.

How to get into drone inspections?

To become a drone inspector, you should obtain a remote pilot certificate from the FAA or relevant authority, gain experience operating drones, and learn industry-specific inspection procedures. Familiarity with drone safety, maintenance, and data analysis is also beneficial for performing inspections effectively.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Inspector jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Drone Inspector jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Drone Inspector jobs in Minnesota?

For Drone Inspector jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Inspector jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Inspector jobs in Minnesota are:

Infographic showing various Drone Inspector job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,808 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

RTIC Drone Assistant

The City of Rochester, MN

Rochester, MN • On-site

$30/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

RTIC Drone Assistant

Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/rochester/jobs/newprint/5454374)

Apply

RTIC Drone Assistant

Salary

$30.00 Hourly

Location

Police Department, 101 4th Street SE, Rochester, MN, MN

Job Type

Regular PT

Job Number

20260504A

Department

Rochester Police Department

Opening Date

08/19/2026

Closing Date

9/2/2026 11:59 PM Central

  • Description

  • Benefits

  • Questions

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Real Time Information Center (RTIC) Drone Assistant

Limited Appointment Opportunity

Individuals hired will be scheduled to work less than 14 hours per week

Mission - "To provide exceptional service and superior protection by reducing crime and enhancing the quality of life of the first-class community we serve. The Rochester Police will accomplish this through strategic collaboration, along with a commitment to our core values of integrity, service, compassion, respect, and innovation."

Nature of Work

Under the direction of a Rochester Police pilot, the Real Time Information Center (RTIC) Drone Assistant will provide additional staffing support to RTIC. This position will enhance public safety and improve response efficiency when drone presence is needed or requested. This civilian position will aid sworn police officers, allowing them to remain focused on frontline policing and investigative responsibilities. This is a part-time position (less than 14 hours per week) intended to provide operational Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) support and limited analytical assistance as assigned.

COMPLETED ONLINE APPLICATION IS REQUIRED

RESUMES AND COVER LETTERS ARE REQUESTED

The City of Rochester is committed to a community where all members feel a sense of belonging. We commit to recognizing the diversity of our community members, listening to ALL voices and providing equitable services to create an inclusive place to live, play and work.

We believe EQUITY should be at the center of all our work. We strive to represent our community in our teammates, as we know that diverse and inclusive teams are more innovative, and have an empowering impact on the work, progress and culture of our community.

It takes us all working together

WORK SCHEDULE

This position will be scheduled with days and times which may vary from week to week, averaging 13 hours per week over the course of a year.

2026 PAY RATE:

$30.00 per hour

Applications will close on September 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The work below is representative of the scope of work performed within this job classification. Individual job duties will vary based on work assignment or location.

*Operate unmanned aircraft (UAV)

  • Operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in support of RTIC and field operations, in compliance with FAA regulations, state law, and department policy.

  • Deploy UAVs as requested or assigned for situational awareness, search operations, traffic management, perimeter security, disaster response, and special events.

  • Provide live aerial video feeds and imagery to the RTIC, command staff, and field units.

  • Coordinate UAV operations with patrol officers, command staff, and other public safety agencies as directed.

  • Conduct equipment inspections, document flight activity, and maintain UAV logs and records.

  • Assist with the storage, handling, and basic maintenance of UAV equipment.

*Real-Time Information Center (RTIC) Operations

  • Monitor incoming calls for service, CAD activity, and records data to assist with situational awareness, officer safety considerations, and emerging incidents.

  • Provide real-time situational awareness and operational support to patrol officers, supervisors, detectives, and command staff.

  • Monitor and operate department camera systems, including fixed cameras, and other RPD technologies.

  • Conduct authorized database queries under the direction of sworn personnel or RTIC supervisors to support active incidents and investigations.

  • Track incidents in progress and provide timely updates to responding units and supervisors.

  • Assist with major incidents, critical incidents, special events, and planned operations as assigned.

*Intelligence & Analytical Support Functions

  • Assist with open-source intelligence (OSINT) and public information review, as directed, to support investigations and public safety operations.

  • Observe and relay relevant information related to suspect activity, public safety concerns, or emerging issues to appropriate personnel.

  • Prepare briefings, summaries, and intelligence support materials as directed

*Administrative & Compliance Responsibilities

  • Ensure assigned RTIC and UAV tasks are performed in compliance with department policies, privacy standards, and applicable legal requirements.

  • Maintain confidentiality and security of sensitive law enforcement and criminal justice information.

  • Document activities, intelligence support provided, and operational assistance during assigned shifts.

  • Participate in training related to RTIC systems, UAV operations, data privacy, and emerging public safety technologies.

Perform other duties as assigned or necessary.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

A high school diploma or equivalent GED and be at least 18 years old.

Licenses and Certifications

Valid Driver's License

FAA Part 107 Certification (must obtain within one (1) month of hire date)

Desirable Qualifications

  • Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public safety, information technology, or a related field.

  • Existing and current FAA Part 107 UAV license.

  • Prior experience with UAV systems, camera systems, and information databases.

  • Prior Law Enforcement related experience.

  • Willingness to appear for court testimony in criminal trial proceedings.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of: Police protocols, drone equipment, mechanics, and operation; evidence preservation

Skill in: a dhering to strict policies to avoid unauthorized surveillance without a warrant or exigent circumstances.

Ability to: safely fly and land an unmanned aircraft; maintain flight logs accessible to the public.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CRITERIA

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the following represents the physical and environmental demands for this position. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions with or without accommodation.

In consideration of the overall amount of physical effort required to perform this position, the work is best described as Light Work : Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.

Physical demands that may be required continuously (2/3 or more of the time), frequently (1/3 to 2/3 of the time), and occasionally (up to 1/3 of the time) are noted below:

Continuous demands: sitting, fine dexterity

Frequent demands: handling, reaching

Occasional demands: kneeling, climbing, walking

Sensory requirements necessary in the performance of the essential functions of this position include: sight, hearing, and touch

Environmental conditions. NONE (not substantially exposed to environmental conditions)

No benefits available for Temporary / Seasonal / Part-time positions

01

The following supplemental information may be used as a scored evaluation of your knowledge, skills and experience. Be certain that the choices you make correspond to the information you have provided in your application and resume. You must be honest and accurate in answering the supplemental questions and do not type "see resume". You may also be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview for this position. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is true and accurate. Any information provided may be reviewed by the hiring manager. Any misstatements or falsification of information will eliminate you from consideration or may result in dismissal. Do you understand and agree with this statement?

  • Yes

  • No

02

What is your preferred name?

03

Which of the following best describes your educational background?

  • High school diploma or equivalent G.E.D.

  • Some college, but no degree

  • Completion of an accredited 2- or 4-year degree, or higher, program

  • N/A - None of the above

04

Have you ever been convicted of a crime?

  • Yes

  • No

05

If you answered "Yes" to the prior question, please explain.

06

Do you currently hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate?

  • Yes, and it is current.

  • I previously held this certification and am eligible to renew.

  • No, but I am willing to complete training and obtain certification during a probationary/training period.

  • No and I do not intend to obtain this certification.

07

Share with us how your professional, educational, and lived experiences will help you be successful in this role. Include any experience with unmanned aerial vehicle operations and/or criminal and informational databases.

08

RTIC Drone Assistants may be scheduled to work some weekends, evenings and holidays. Will you be able to work these shifts?

  • Yes

  • No

  • Maybe

09

How many total flight hours do you have operating UAVs/drones?

  • None

  • At least 1 but less than 25 hours

  • At least 26 but less than 100 hours

  • More than 100 hours

10

Are you currently employed, or have you ever been employed, as a police officer, deputy sheriff, state trooper, or other law enforcement professional?

  • Yes

  • No

11

Please indicate any experience you have with the following (select all that apply).

  • UAV flight operations

  • Camera systems or live video feeds

  • Computer-aided dispatch (CAD) or similar systems

  • Monitoring multiple information streams simultaneously

  • Documentation, logging, or public-records-accessible data

  • I have no experience with any of these items.

12

What experience do you have working in a Real Time Information Center or Real Time Crime Center?

  • No experience

  • Limited – I understand the terminology and have not worked with it directly.

  • Moderate – My normal work has included some engagement within this setting as part of my past or current role.

  • Extensive – I have worked with RTIC as a regular part of my past or current role.

13

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: If selected as a finalist, are you willing to undergo a thorough background pursuant to MN STAT 626.87 (https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/?id=626.87) and MN RULES 6700.0700 (https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/?id=6700.0700) , which may include, but not limited to: verification of employment and educational records, identification verification, driver's license record and a criminal history?

  • Yes

  • No

Required Question

Employer

City of Rochester

Address

201 4th Street SE Rochester, Minnesota, 55904

Phone

(507) 328-2555

Website

https://www.rochestermn.gov/employment

Apply

Please verify your email address Verify Email