1

Drone Mapping Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

We provide our clients a full range of Geomatics, surveying, and mapping services. Join a team of ... Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial ...

We provide our clients a full range of Geomatics, surveying, and mapping services. Join a team of ... Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial ...

We provide our clients a full range of Geomatics, surveying, and mapping services. Join a team of ... Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial ...

We provide our clients a full range of Geomatics, surveying, and mapping services. Join a team of ... Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial ...

We provide our clients a full range of Geomatics, surveying, and mapping services. Join a team of ... Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial ...

Ability to leverage Arcade in ArcGIS Pro, Experience Builder, Dashboards, Web Maps, etc ... FAA Part 107 Drone License and familiarity with Imagery and LiDAR derivative products. * Experience ...

Ability to leverage Arcade in ArcGIS Pro, Experience Builder, Dashboards, Web Maps, etc ... FAA Part 107 Drone License and familiarity with Imagery and LiDAR derivative products. * Experience ...

Tower Technician (WISP)

Saint Joseph, MN · On-site

$29.50 - $35.50/hr

Interpret, understand, and apply network and cable system maps and plans. * Test and review system ... Possess FAA107 (Drone SUAS) Certification License or attain within 180 days of hire. * Complete ...

Our capabilities extend even further with comprehensive utility mapping powered by patented drone technology and robotic camera sewer inspection, providing an unmatched level of precision and insight.

Drone Mapping information

See Minnesota salary details

$16

$28

$45

How much do drone mapping jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone mapping in Minnesota is $28.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.80 and $31.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone mapping?

A Drone Mapping job involves using drones equipped with cameras or sensors to capture aerial imagery and data for creating maps, 3D models, and geographic analyses. Professionals in this field work in industries like construction, agriculture, mining, and surveying, providing high-resolution maps for planning and decision-making. They use specialized software to process drone-captured data into accurate visual representations of terrain, infrastructure, or land use. Strong technical skills in drone operation, GIS, and data analysis are often required.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a drone mapping professional?

As a Drone Mapping professional, your daily tasks often include planning flight paths, conducting drone surveys, collecting aerial data, and processing imagery with specialized GIS and mapping software. You’ll also be responsible for maintaining equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and troubleshooting technical issues in the field. Collaboration is common, as you may work closely with engineers, surveyors, or project managers to understand data needs and deliver actionable insights. This role combines fieldwork with office analysis, offering a dynamic work environment and the chance to contribute to projects in construction, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and more.

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

To thrive in Drone Mapping, you need strong skills in UAV/drone operation, geospatial data collection, and GIS software, typically backed by certifications such as FAA Part 107 and training in photogrammetry. Familiarity with mapping tools like Pix4D, DroneDeploy, and ArcGIS, as well as knowledge of relevant industry regulations, is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication are important soft skills for accurate data interpretation and reporting. These capabilities are crucial for delivering reliable mapping data and collaborating effectively with project teams across various industries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Drone Mapping job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,263 per year, or $28 per hour.

GPS & Construction Technology Specialist

Alexandria, MN • On-site

Central Specialties, Inc.
Construction • 201 - 500 employees

$60K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Title: GPS & Construction Technology Specialist
Reports To: VP of Earthworks and Infrastructure
Status: Salary (Exempt)
Location: Central Specialties - Alexandria, In Person
Schedule: Full-time, year-round, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. with extended hours as needed from April - November.
Position Summary
The GPS & Construction Technology Specialist is responsible for managing, maintaining, and supporting all GPS machine control, survey, and positioning technology used throughout the company's heavy highway construction operations. This position works closely with project managers, superintendents, foremen, survey crews, estimators, and equipment operators to ensure accurate digital models, machine guidance systems, and field layout that improve productivity, efficiency, and quality.
The GPS & Construction Technology Specialist serves as the company's technical expert for machine control systems, digital modeling, and construction positioning technology while supporting emerging technologies, including drone-based mapping and stockpile quantity verification.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Prepare, build, and maintain digital terrain models (DTMs), surface models, alignments, and machine control files from construction plans.
  • Upload, calibrate, and maintain GPS machine control files for dozers, motor graders, excavators, rollers, and other GPS-equipped construction equipment.
  • Verify the accuracy of GPS models and machine control data prior to project startup.
  • Support field personnel with project setup, localization, calibration, and site troubleshooting.
  • Coordinate with project managers and survey personnel to ensure project control and design information remain accurate and current.
  • Perform site visits to verify machine control performance and resolve GPS-related issues.
  • Train equipment operators and field personnel on the proper use of GPS machine control systems.
  • Maintain base stations, rovers, total stations, radios, and related positioning equipment.
  • Manage software updates, firmware updates, equipment inventory, and licensing.
  • Coordinate with equipment manufacturers and vendors regarding technical support, repairs, and warranty issues.
  • Review construction plans, specifications, and digital files for constructability and compatibility with GPS systems.
  • Assist estimating and project management teams with earthwork modeling, quantity calculations, and project planning.
  • Develop and maintain standards for GPS modeling, file naming, version control, and data management.
  • Assist with the collection and management of aerial survey data using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) when needed.
  • Support material inventory verification by utilizing drone-generated imagery and photogrammetry to calculate stockpile quantities.
  • Coordinate drone data collection with project managers and operations personnel to improve quantity tracking and project planning.
  • Ensure proper documentation and backup of project files.
  • Stay current on emerging GPS, surveying, drone, and machine control technologies applicable to heavy highway construction.
  • Travel to jobsites throughout the company's operating area as needed.

Qualifications
  • Equivalent combination of education and heavy civil construction experience will be considered.
  • Three or more years of experience with GPS machine control systems, construction surveying, or heavy highway construction preferred.
  • Experience with drone (UAS) operations for construction surveying, mapping, or stockpile quantity verification is preferred but not required.
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is preferred or the willingness to obtain certification after hire.
  • Experience supporting field construction operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong understanding of highway construction methods and earthwork operations.
  • Proficiency with GPS machine control systems such as Topcon, Trimble, Leica, or Carlson.
  • Experience using CAD and modeling software including AutoCAD Civil 3D, Trimble Business Center, Topcon Office, AGTEK, or similar applications.
  • Knowledge of construction staking, coordinate systems, projections, and site localization.
  • Ability to read and interpret roadway plans, profiles, cross sections, and specifications.
  • Familiarity with drone mapping software such as Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Propeller, or similar photogrammetry platforms is a plus.
  • Understanding of aerial imagery, point clouds, orthomosaic maps, and volumetric calculations is beneficial.
  • Ability to interpret drone-generated data for material inventory management and construction planning.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to effectively train equipment operators and field personnel.
  • Strong organizational and time management abilities.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

Physical Requirements
  • Frequently travel to active construction sites.
  • Walk on uneven terrain and around heavy equipment.
  • Lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Occasionally climb, bend, kneel, crouch, and stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to safely work around moving construction equipment and traffic.

Work Environment
This position divides time between office and field environments. The GPS Specialist regularly visits active heavy highway construction projects and is exposed to varying weather conditions, noise, dust, and heavy equipment operation. Occasional overnight travel may be required depending on project locations.
Success in This Role
A successful GPS Specialist enables construction crews to build projects accurately, efficiently, and safely by ensuring dependable machine control systems, accurate digital models, and responsive technical support. This role directly contributes to improved production, reduced rework, increased equipment efficiency, and successful project delivery.
Central Specialties is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.