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Drone Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Kiewit

Drone Operator- Surveyor 1

Medford, OR · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Drone Operator - Transmission & Distribution Inspection Kiewit Power Delivery | Field-Based Role Position Overview Kiewit is seeking a skilled Drone Operator to support inspection of overhead ...

Slayden

Senior VDC Engineer

Central Point, OR · Hybrid

$106K - $139K/yr

Leverage drone mapping workflows and datasets to further inform decision making, estimating, and quantity tracking. Advanced Visualization & Scheduling Support * Create 3D visualizations, renderings ...

SOLV Energy

Construction Engineer I (Temp-to-Hire)

OR · On-site +1

Assistwith field execution of drone flights, data collection, and upload processes as required by construction and engineering teams. * Capture and organize field feedback on technology performance ...

Slayden

Senior VDC Engineer

Central Point, OR · Hybrid

$106K - $139K/yr

Leverage drone mapping workflows and datasets to further inform decision making, estimating, and quantity tracking. Advanced Visualization & Scheduling Support * Create 3D visualizations, renderings ...

TSMG

Senior Teleoperations Lead

Salem, OR · On-site

$85 - $115/hr

Previous experience in teleoperations, robotics operations, AV operations, drone operations, fleet management, or control-room environments * Experience leading operational teams * Strong ...

TSMG

Senior Teleoperations Lead

Salem, OR

Previous experience in teleoperations, robotics operations, AV operations, drone operations, fleet management, or control-room environments * Experience leading operational teams * Strong ...

TSMG

Senior Teleoperations Lead

Salem, OR

Previous experience in teleoperations, robotics operations, AV operations, drone operations, fleet management, or control-room environments * Experience leading operational teams * Strong ...

Jobsbridge

Java Developer (Cloud Services)

Portland, OR · On-site

$54 - $70/hr

High volume & bitrate content streams such as those from UHD drone videos or aerial imagery, as well as micro-record streams such as those from well-heads or residential sensors Grow with the company ...

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Drone information

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How much do drone jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone in Oregon is $21.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone?

Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are aircraft that operate without a human pilot onboard. They are commonly used for a variety of applications including aerial photography, agriculture, surveying, delivery services, infrastructure inspection, and even emergency response. Drones can be controlled remotely or fly autonomously using pre-programmed flight plans and sensors. Their versatility and ability to access hard-to-reach areas have made them valuable tools across many industries.

What are careers in the drone industry?

Careers in the drone industry include drone pilots, software or hardware designers, and positions that analyze and assess the data acquired by drones. As a drone pilot, you can work in a variety of fields, including the mapping, real estate, construction, photography and film production, and military industries. Your responsibilities differ depending on the industry, but your general duties are to operate the drone and return the data to your supervisor. As a designer, you typically only work for drone manufacturers. Your goal is to either improve existing products or produce new drones.

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

To thrive as a Drone Operator, you need expertise in piloting drones, understanding airspace regulations, and often a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or equivalent licensing. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and camera or sensor equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help operators adapt to changing environments and coordinate with teams. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and compliant drone operations across various industries.

What are some common challenges faced by drone operators in the field, and how can they be managed?

Drone operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, technical malfunctions, and navigating complex airspace regulations. To manage these, operators need to conduct thorough pre-flight checks, stay updated on local regulations, and maintain open communication with their team. Additionally, ongoing training and adherence to safety protocols are crucial for ensuring both the drone's integrity and the successful completion of missions.

What is the difference between Drone vs Photographer?

AspectDronePhotographer
Required CredentialsFAA Part 107 certification (for commercial use), drone operation trainingPhotography certifications (e.g., CPP), portfolio
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, aerial locations, remote areasIndoor studios, outdoor scenes, various locations
Industry UsageReal estate, filmmaking, surveyingEvents, portraits, commercial shoots

Both drones and photographers require specialized skills and certifications. Drones focus on aerial imaging and often involve remote operation, while photographers capture images from the ground. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their visual needs.

How do I start a career in drones?

To start a career as a drone operator, gain knowledge of drone technology, flight regulations, and safety procedures. Obtain relevant certifications such as the FAA Part 107 license if operating commercially in the United States, and develop skills in remote piloting, photography, or videography depending on your focus. Gaining practical experience through training programs or personal practice is also essential.

How much can you get paid for drone work?

Drone operators can earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks. Freelance pilots or those working for companies may also charge per project, with rates varying accordingly. Certification and specialized skills can lead to higher pay in this field.

Is there a demand for drone operators?

Yes, there is increasing demand for drone operators across industries such as agriculture, construction, photography, and inspection services. Skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of FAA regulations are particularly sought after as drone usage expands in commercial applications.

What careers can you do with drones?

Careers with drones include roles such as drone pilot, aerial photographer, videographer, surveyor, inspector, and data analyst. These jobs often require knowledge of drone operation, FAA certification, and skills in photography, surveying, or data processing, depending on the industry sector. Drones are used in fields like agriculture, construction, filmmaking, real estate, and public safety.
More about Drone jobs

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

The most popular types of Drone jobs in Oregon are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Drone jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Drone job openings:

Drone jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,639 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Drone Operator- Surveyor 1

Medford, OR

Kiewit Corporation
Construction Materials Wholesalers • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 80 rated construction

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Kiewit Corporationexternal

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Drone Operator - Transmission & Distribution Inspection
Kiewit Power Delivery | Field-Based Role
Position Overview
Kiewit is seeking a skilled Drone Operator to support inspection of overhead transmission and distribution (T&D) infrastructure for utility and energy projects across the U.S. This role focuses on conducting detailed aerial inspections of power line assets, capturing high-resolution data for condition assessment, and supporting maintenance, reliability, and engineering teams.
The ideal candidate has hands-on experience performing UAV-based utility inspections, understands structure and conductor components, and is comfortable working in active utility corridors and construction environments.
Key Responsibilities
Aerial Inspection Operations
Operate UAVs to perform detailed inspections of transmission and distribution systems, including structures, insulators, conductors, hardware, and associated assets.
Power Line Asset Inspection
Capture high-resolution imagery and video (and thermal data, if applicable) to identify defects such as damaged components, corrosion, vegetation encroachment, and clearance issues.
Right-of-Way (ROW) Assessment
Inspect and document vegetation conditions, encroachments, access routes, and environmental constraints along utility corridors.
Data Capture & Quality Assurance
Ensure consistent, repeatable data collection aligned with inspection standards and client requirements, maintaining high accuracy and reliability.
Data Processing & Deliverables
Process and organize inspection data into actionable outputs, including annotated imagery, inspection reports, and geospatial datasets for engineering and asset management teams.
Safety & Compliance
Conduct all UAV operations in compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations, Kiewit safety protocols, and client-specific utility requirements, including energized line considerations.
Project Coordination
Collaborate with utility clients, engineers, asset managers, and field teams to plan inspection missions, define data requirements, and deliver timely results.
Equipment Management
Maintain UAV platforms, sensors (visual and thermal), and support equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable field operations.
Position Overview

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Other Requirements:
    Regular, reliable attendance
    Work productively and meet deadlines timely
    Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment
    Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
    Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
    FIELD ROLES ONLY May work at various different locations and conditions may vary

Base Compensation: $75,000/yr - $85,000/yr

(Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)

We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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About Kiewit

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kiewit Infrastructure Engineering's Design-Build team is driving clients to turn to Kiewit during all stages of design-build projects. Through our integrated design and construction approach, our multi-disciplinary team works together to improve schedule, control costs and minimize risk. Our construction-focused engineers work collaboratively with our estimators and builders to design solutions that are innovative, constructible, and designed with a focus on safety. Clients benefit from the proven processes and tools used by Kiewit to minimize project risk. We are an in-house resource that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff shares experiences gained, innovative concepts, and best practices for all projects that we support.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1884

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