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Drones Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Drones information

See Minnesota salary details

$28.2K

$130.5K

$263.3K

How much do drones jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for drones in Minnesota is $130,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,130.00 and $169,061.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone operator?

Drone operators are professionals trained to pilot unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. They use drones for a variety of purposes, including aerial photography, surveying land, inspecting infrastructure, delivering goods, and even monitoring wildlife. Drone operators must understand how to safely maneuver the drone, comply with aviation regulations, and often analyze the data or images collected during flights. In commercial settings, they may also need certification or licenses, depending on the country and type of operation.

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

To thrive as a Drone Pilot, you need strong spatial awareness, technical proficiency in operating UAVs, and typically a drone pilot certification such as the FAA Part 107 (in the U.S.). Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS systems, and camera or sensor equipment is often required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding drone operators apart. These competencies ensure safe, legal, and efficient drone operations across industries such as photography, surveying, and inspections.

What are some common challenges drone operators face when working on commercial projects?

Drone operators working on commercial projects often encounter challenges such as obtaining proper flight permissions, adapting to changing weather conditions, and ensuring compliance with local and federal regulations. Additionally, operators must work closely with clients and team members to understand project requirements and deliver accurate data or imagery. Staying updated on evolving technology and troubleshooting equipment issues are also key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Drones vs Drone Pilots?

AspectDronesDrone Pilots
CredentialsNone required for operation; certifications optional for commercial useFAA Part 107 certification required
Work EnvironmentUsed in various industries like photography, agriculture, constructionOperate drones in specific projects or jobs, often outdoors
Employer & IndustryManufacturers, service providers, hobbyistsCompanies, government agencies, media outlets

While drones refer to the devices themselves, drone pilots are licensed professionals who operate these devices for various commercial and industrial purposes. Understanding the distinction helps in choosing the right career path or service.

How do I start a career in drones?

To start a career in drones, gain knowledge of drone technology, flight operations, and safety regulations. Obtain relevant certifications such as the FAA Part 107 license if operating commercially in the United States, and develop skills in remote piloting, maintenance, and data analysis. Gaining hands-on experience through training programs or internships can also improve job prospects.

What kind of jobs can you do with drones?

Jobs with drones include aerial photography and videography for real estate, events, or media production, as well as inspections of infrastructure like power lines, bridges, and wind turbines. Drone operators often need certification, technical skills, and knowledge of safety regulations to perform tasks in industries such as agriculture, construction, surveying, and emergency response.
Infographic showing various Drones job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,487 per year, or $62.7 per hour.

API 510/570/653 - St. Louis Park, MN

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Saint Louis Park, MN • On-site

$37.50 - $60.58/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 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

Acuren is currently recruiting for a Visual Inspector III - API 510/570/653, who will service several client sites across the midwest and support our operations in St. Louis Park, MN. 


  • At the direction of client, perform visual and non-destructive examination of static and dynamic pressure retaining equipment in accordance with American Petroleum Institute (API) standards and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
  • Submit to client technically accurate reports documenting equipment condition
  • Provide client with technical recommendations for the repair, re-rate, replacement, and/or alteration of plant equipment, as required for safe operation within stated operating parameters for durations specified by client
  • Provide technical input to client as required for welding and metallurgical issues
  • Provide technical guidance, on a application of non-destructive examination techniques and procedures
  • Fully comply with all Acuren and client safe work practices and actively participate in all site safety initiatives
  • Willingness to travel if needed

  • Certification of American Petroleum Institute Standards 510/570
  • 5 – 10 years’ experience or 2+ years on site experience
  • Additional API 653 or CWI a plus
  • In-depth working knowledge of API 510/570 and ASME standards
  • Experience working in direct support of petrochemical facility engineers

  • Competitive salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • Pay Transparency: As per applicable state law the job posting pay range is $37.50 - $60.58/hr depending on experience and applicable certifications.

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. #LI-MH1


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