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Drone Operator Pilot Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Position Summary Acuren is currently recruiting for Drone Operators with Skydio X10 experience to ... Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. * Strong attention to detail and ability to follow ...

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Drone Operator Pilot information

What is a drone operator pilot?

Drone Operator Pilots are professionals trained to control and navigate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. They are responsible for planning flight paths, conducting pre-flight checks, and safely operating drones for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, inspection, or delivery services. In addition to piloting the drones, they may also be required to analyze data collected during flights and ensure compliance with aviation regulations. Drone Operator Pilots often work for private companies, government agencies, or as independent contractors, and must typically obtain relevant certifications or licenses to operate drones commercially.

How much do drone operator pilots earn?

Drone operator pilots typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Certified pilots with specialized skills in aerial photography, surveying, or inspection can earn higher wages, especially when working for commercial or government clients.

What is the difference between Drone Operator Pilot vs Drone Technician?

AspectDrone Operator PilotDrone Technician
CredentialsRemote Pilot Certification, FAA Part 107Technical certifications, repair licenses
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, aerial operationsIndoor repair shops, maintenance facilities
Industry UsageAerial photography, surveying, inspectionsEquipment maintenance, repairs

Drone Operator Pilots focus on flying drones for various applications, requiring pilot certifications. Drone Technicians handle maintenance and repairs, requiring technical skills. Both roles are essential in the drone industry but serve different functions.

Can you make good money as a drone operator pilot?

Drone operator pilots can earn varying incomes depending on experience, industry, and type of work, with freelance pilots often charging hourly or project-based rates. Salaries for full-time positions typically range from moderate to high, especially for specialized skills like aerial photography, surveying, or inspection services, and additional certifications can enhance earning potential.

Is there a demand for drone operator pilots?

The demand for drone operator pilots is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, filmmaking, and inspection services. Certified pilots with skills in operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and knowledge of relevant regulations are increasingly sought after as drone technology becomes more integrated into various sectors.

What are some common challenges drone operator pilots face when working on field assignments?

Drone Operator Pilots often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, maintaining compliance with evolving aviation regulations, and ensuring safe flight operations in complex environments. Field assignments may require quick troubleshooting of technical issues with the drone or its equipment and effective communication with team members and clients to meet project goals. Staying adaptable and proactive in addressing these challenges is crucial for successful missions and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone operator pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Operator Pilot, you need strong technical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations, often backed by a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA or equivalent authority. Proficiency with drone control software, GPS systems, and aerial imaging tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you adapt to changing environments and coordinate safely with teams or clients. These skills ensure safe, legal, and efficient drone operations that meet project objectives and regulatory standards.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Operator Pilot jobs in Oregon?

For Drone Operator Pilot jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Operator Pilot jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Operator Pilot jobs in Oregon are:

Drone Operator Pilot jobs near you

I-Drone Operator (Pilot) with Skydio X10 experience

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Acuren rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

Position Summary

Acuren is currently recruiting for Drone Operators with Skydio X10 experience to suppor tour operations in Salt Lake City, UT

This role is designed for individuals seeking to gain structured, professional flight operations experience within a safety-driven organization. Must be able to travel 100%. Oil and Gas experience  preferred.

Responsibilities
  • Conduct remote UAS flight operations in compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and company procedures.
  • Monitor live telemetry, video feeds, and mission data across multi-screen systems.
  • Perform structured pre-flight checks and post-flight documentation.
  • Maintain situational awareness during all flight operations.
  • Communicate clearly with operations personnel and field teams.
  • Log flight data accurately and complete required reporting.
  • Follow standardized operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols at all times.
  • Participate in training and operational readiness exercises. Organize and report test results
  • Perform specialized inspections
  • May instruct and supervise others
  • Perform other job-related tasks as assigned by management
Requirements
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Some college preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively perform assigned NDT tasks and interpret results of inspections
  • Knowledge of Drone equipment
  • Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures precisely.
  • Ability to remain focused for extended periods during live operations.
  • Ability to work rotating and non-traditional shifts
  • Knowledge of aviation radio communication procedures.
  • Experience in industrial inspection (Oil and Gas experience preferred)
  • Skydio X10 experience required 
  • Open to 100% travel
Benefits
  • Competitive salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
Company Overview

 

Acuren is a trusted, single source provider of technology-enabled asset protection solutions used to evaluate the structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructures. Committed to delivering a Higher Level of Reliability, Acuren provides an unrivaled spectrum of capabilities including inspection, traditional and advanced NDE/NDT, failure analysis, rope access, materials engineering, field engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring services.

Our work is critical to the integrity and safety of industrial firms, including petroleum refinery, pipeline, power generation, pulp & paper, mining, pharmaceutical, aerospace and automotive industries. Acuren employs over 4,000 dedicated professionals supporting the mechanical integrity and inspection programs of the world's largest industrial segments.

Acuren is a market leader. Our formula for success is straightforward: be capable locally, with certified and well-equipped personnel supported by trained, experienced leaders. Continuing to build on a strong heritage of safety, quality and professionalism, Acuren strives to maintain incident free work environments, pursues advanced technical developments, and supports reliability programs that are valued by clients and employees. 

Employment Type: OTHER

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