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Drone Operations Manager Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Drone Operations Manager information

See Portland, OR salary details

$32.9K

$67.3K

$125.7K

How much do drone operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone operations manager in Portland, OR is $67,296.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $82,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a drone operations manager do?

A Drone Operations Manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of drone missions for various applications such as surveying, inspections, or deliveries. They manage teams of drone pilots, ensure compliance with aviation regulations, maintain equipment, and develop operational protocols. The role also involves liaising with clients, analyzing data collected by drones, and ensuring all safety and legal standards are met. This position requires strong leadership, technical knowledge of unmanned aerial systems, and up-to-date understanding of industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone operations manager?

To thrive as a Drone Operations Manager, you need expertise in UAV flight operations, regulatory compliance, and logistics management, typically supported by a relevant degree or equivalent field experience. Familiarity with drone piloting software, airspace management tools, and certifications such as Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate are commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills are crucial for leading teams and coordinating complex projects. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant drone operations in dynamic environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a drone operations manager, and how can they be effectively managed?

Drone Operations Managers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with evolving aviation regulations, managing fleet maintenance, and coordinating schedules across multiple projects. Staying updated on local and federal laws is crucial, as is developing standardized operating procedures to maintain safety and efficiency. Effective communication with pilots, technicians, and clients helps address logistical issues promptly and ensures projects run smoothly. Leveraging management software and ongoing training can also mitigate operational risks and improve team performance.

What is the difference between Drone Operations Manager vs Drone Pilot?

AspectDrone Operations ManagerDrone Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107 certification, management trainingFAA Part 107 certification, flight experience
Work EnvironmentOversees teams, plans operations, manages logisticsOperates drones in the field for data collection or filming
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in construction, agriculture, surveying, and inspectionUsed in media, filmmaking, real estate, and inspections

The Drone Operations Manager focuses on overseeing drone operations, managing teams, and planning projects, while the Drone Pilot primarily operates drones for specific tasks. Both roles require FAA Part 107 certification, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR?

For Drone Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Drone Operations Manager jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Drone Operations Manager job openings:

Drone Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Operations Manager job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,296 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Field Layout Engineer

Cambridge Swinerton Builders

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Description Summary:

Responsible for site control, reality capture, and high-accuracy construction layout using surveying principles and advanced field technology including robotic total stations, robotic layout systems, scanning, UAV/drone platforms, and GPR.

Job Description:

  • Ability to establish and verify site control and benchmarks
  • Perform construction layout for ground-up and interior projects
  • Capture existing site conditions via total station, drone and GPR unit that is oriented around known benchmarks for accuracy
  • Execute robotic layout operations and verify results
  • Capture existing conditions using 3D scanning/reality capture supporting layout
  • Conduct UAV/drone surveys for mapping and documentation
  • Perform GPR scanning for subsurface investigation
  • Back-check layout for self-perform and trade partners
  • Maintain field documentation, as-builts, and QA/QC records
  • Robotic Total Stations (RTS)
  • Robotic layout/printing systems (HP SIte Print & Dusty Robotics)
  • Reality capture / laser scanning systems (Leica RTC360)
  • UAV/Drone platforms
  • Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
  • Digital layout and data management tools
  • Perform additional tasks as needed
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, surveying, or equivalent related field experience
  • Strong foundation in surveying principles and control
  • Experience in construction layout or field engineering
  • Ability to interpret plans, models, and layout data
  • Strong math skills and attention to precision
  • Strong capability in AutoCAD, Revit capability preferred in addition
  • Licensed Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) or working toward licensure
  • FAA Part 107 Drone License (or ability to obtain)
  • Experience with layout robotics and reality capture workflows
  • Familiarity with BIM/VDC coordination
  • Adhere to Companies' safety policies and core values

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