1

Drone Mapping Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Become Drone Certified for TOPO * Verify the accuracy of survey data including measurements and ... Prepare and maintain sketches, maps, reports, and legal descriptions of surveys to describe ...

Licensed Drone operator, Preferred but not required * Excellent ability to read and comprehend construction plans * Ability to build TIN / BIM maps * Knowledge or Certificate to Operate Drones

Drone Mapping information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$16

$27

$45

How much do drone mapping jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone mapping in Raleigh, NC is $27.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 many work in fields like construction, agriculture, or infrastructure inspection.

What is a Drone Mapping job?

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.

How much do drone mapping pilots make?

Drone mapping pilots typically earn between $15 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Many pilots work as freelancers or for surveying companies, often requiring knowledge of GIS software and drone operation certifications.

How to become a drone mapper?

To become a drone mapper, you should gain experience in drone operation and aerial imaging, often through a drone pilot certification such as the FAA Part 107 license. Learning GIS software and photogrammetry tools is also essential for processing and analyzing mapping data.

Is there a demand for drone operators?

There is a growing demand for drone operators in industries such as construction, agriculture, surveying, and filmmaking. Skilled drone pilots with certifications and knowledge of mapping software are increasingly sought after as industries adopt drone technology for data collection and analysis.
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Mapping jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Drone Mapping jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Drone Mapping jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Drone Mapping jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Mapping jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Mapping jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Drone Mapping jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Drone Mapping job openings:
Infographic showing various Drone Mapping job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,763 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Senior Mechanical Engineer / Accident Reconstruction Engineer (P.E.)

Senior Mechanical Engineer / Accident Reconstruction Engineer (P.E.)

Accident Reconstruction Analysis

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$100K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

About Us


Accident Reconstruction Analysis, PLLC (ARA) is a nationally recognized forensic engineering and fire investigation firm providing expert analysis in vehicle collisions, product failures, structural failures, industrial incidents, fire origin and cause investigations, and other complex technical matters. Our engineers work alongside attorneys, insurance carriers, manufacturers, corporations, and government agencies to investigate failures and provide expert testimony throughout the United States.

We are seeking an experienced PE to join our growing forensic engineering team.


Position Summary


The Senior Mechanical Engineer will investigate vehicle collisions, equipment failures, structural incidents, fires, and other engineering-related losses. The successful candidate will perform field inspections, analyze physical evidence, conduct engineering calculations, prepare detailed technical reports, develop demonstrative exhibits, and provide expert testimony when required. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply engineering principles to real world investigations while working on challenging, high profile litigation matters.


Primary Responsibilities


  • Conduct field investigations involving:
    • Motor vehicle collisions
    • Commercial vehicle crashes
    • Industrial accidents
    • Product failures
    • Mechanical failures
    • Fire and explosion losses
    • Structural failures
  • Document accident scenes using photography, measurements, drones, laser scanning, and mapping technology
  • Analyze vehicle damage, event data recorders (EDRs), and physical evidence
  • Perform engineering calculations and accident reconstruction analyses
  • Conduct product testing and engineering evaluations
  • Develop computer simulations and visual demonstrative exhibits
  • Prepare detailed technical reports for litigation and insurance claims
  • Communicate findings with attorneys, insurance companies, and clients
  • Participate in depositions and provide expert witness testimony
  • Travel as needed throughout North Carolina and occasionally nationwide


Preferred Qualifications


Required


  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related engineering discipline
  • P.E. license (or ability to obtain NC licensure through comity)
  • Minimum 8+ years of engineering experience
  • Excellent technical writing skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to travel


Preferred


Experience with one or more of the following:


  • Accident Reconstruction
  • Fire Investigation
  • Failure Analysis
  • Product Liability
  • Heavy Truck Reconstruction
  • Human Factors
  • Vehicle Dynamics
  • Event Data Recorder (EDR) Analysis
  • 3D Modeling or Animation
  • Photogrammetry
  • FARO Laser Scanner
  • Drone Mapping
  • CAD Software
  • Engineering Litigation Support


Certifications such as ACTAR, CFI, FAA Part 107, or Fire Investigation credentials are highly desirable but not required.


What You'll Do


Every investigation is different. One week you may inspect a tractor-trailer collision, while the next you may examine a collapsed structure, investigate a fire scene, evaluate a failed industrial component, or reconstruct a complex multi-vehicle crash. Our engineers work directly with evidence, perform engineering analyses, and present defensible technical opinions that help resolve litigation.


Why Join ARA?


  • Diverse forensic engineering projects
  • Nationally recognized expert witness practice
  • Collaborative team of engineers and fire investigators
  • Opportunities for professional development and specialty certifications
  • Cutting edge forensic technology and equipment
  • Competitive compensation
  • Health benefits
  • Paid time off
  • Continuing education support
  • Retirement plan


Ideal Candidate


We're looking for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical problems, is comfortable working both in the field and the office, and can clearly communicate engineering conclusions to clients, attorneys, judges, and juries. Attention to detail, sound engineering judgment, and strong written communication skills are essential.