1

Drones Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Ability to utilize other equipment as needed including 3D Cameras, Drones, Moisture meters Preferred Qualifications: * Roofing sales or construction experience * Property Insurance experience * Haag ...

Ability to utilize other equipment as needed including 3D Cameras, Drones, Moisture meters Preferred Qualifications: * Roofing sales or construction experience * Property Insurance experience * Haag ...

Experience operating remote sensing equipment (sUAS/drones, 3D laser scanning 3DLS) preferred but not required * Familiarity with AutoCAD, survey data processing software (Trimble Business Center ...

Sr VDC Engineer

Rochester, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utilize Reality Capture technology, such as laser scanning and drones, to support project deliverables * Combines all building discipline models into the coordination model * Reviews the coordination ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Full-Time Level II RT/MT/PT/UTT Techs with State or IRRSP Card - 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 recruiting for full-time Level II RT/MT/PT/UTT Techs with State or IRRSP card for our St. Louis Park, MN location.  


  • Conduct tests to ensure quality or detect discontinuities (defects) using NDT methods (METHOD/S) of inspection
  • Establish techniques for proper examination of objects under inspection, ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations
  • Apply testing criteria in accordance with applicable specifications or standards and evaluate results
  • Identify, track, manage and mitigate risk on specific client engagements. Escalate these issues when necessary to ensure minimal impact to quality, budget, and timeline.
  • Review asset documentation and operational data; including inspection data, monitoring, and auditing associated NDE activities.
  • Complete integrity assessments including physical site walkdowns when required.
  • Prepare project reports including description of work done, conclusion and recommendations.
  • Perform specialized inspections
  • Must have experience developing techniques for approval by customer certifying agents.
  • May instruct and supervise others.
  • Other work duties as assigned.
  • Extensive knowledge of ASME and API requirements and procedures pertaining to the evaluation of applicable equipment for continued serviceability.
  • Knowledge of industry health and safety policies and procedures.
  • Capable of interfacing with customers regarding schedules and problem solving.
  • Ability to use applicable software and computer related equipment.

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Some college preferred
  • Must have all required QA documents (proof of classroom hours, proof of experience hours, 40HR Radiation Safety Training certification and State or IRRSP card)
  • Technical background in NDT/RT 
  • Current NDT certifications in RT/MT/PT/UTT required.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively perform assigned NDT tasks and interpret results of inspections
  • Knowledge of NDT equipment

  • 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.

  • Outside environment with continuous physical effort, exposure to 5-7 elements/conditions, moderate mental effort, and occasional requests for assistance.
  • Travel may be required.

Physical Job Requirements & Demands:

  • Lifting/carrying by weight (50 pounds)  frequently may be equired.
  • Mobility such as reaching, kneeling/crawling, bending/crouching, and frequency/duration in which action is required.
  • Endurance such as sitting, standing, walking, climbing, or driving, and frequency/duration in which action is required.

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


What Acuren employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom