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Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Working in the Pipeline Integrity Services group, a range of technical and operational assignments ... Correlate as-found pipe features to Inline Inspection (ILI) log * Conduct fit-for-service ...

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Working in the Pipeline Integrity Services group, a range of technical and operational assignments ... Correlate as-found pipe features to Inline Inspection (ILI) log * Conduct fit-for-service ...

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Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection information

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$37.5K

$57.3K

$125K

How much do full time drone pipeline inspection jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time drone pipeline inspection in the United States is $57,298.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $56,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time drone pipeline inspection?

A Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection job involves using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to inspect and monitor pipelines for oil, gas, or other materials. These professionals operate drones to capture images and data that help identify issues such as leaks, corrosion, or damage along the pipeline route. The role typically includes planning flight paths, analyzing collected data, and reporting findings to maintenance teams. This position helps ensure the safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance of pipeline operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time drone pipeline inspection professional?

To thrive in Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection, a solid understanding of drone operation, aerial mapping, and pipeline infrastructure is essential, typically supported by a FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Proficiency with drone flight planning software, GIS systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills that enhance performance in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and the timely identification of pipeline issues to maintain safety and operational efficiency.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by drone operators during pipeline inspections, and how can they be overcome?

Drone operators inspecting pipelines often encounter challenges such as adverse weather conditions, signal interference, and navigating difficult or remote terrain. These issues can impact flight stability and data accuracy. To overcome them, operators typically plan missions carefully by reviewing weather forecasts, using drones with robust signal capabilities, and employing advanced mapping software to pre-plan flight paths. Regular training and adherence to safety protocols are also crucial to ensure inspections are both effective and compliant with industry regulations.

What is the difference between Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection vs Full Time Drone Surveyor?

AspectFull Time Drone Pipeline InspectionFull Time Drone Surveyor
CertificationsFAA Part 107, pipeline safety certificationsFAA Part 107, survey-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentOil & gas pipelines, industrial sitesConstruction sites, land areas, topographical regions
Industry UsagePrimarily in energy and pipeline sectorsConstruction, land development, environmental surveys

Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection focuses on monitoring and inspecting pipelines in energy sectors, requiring specialized safety and industry certifications. In contrast, Full Time Drone Surveyors conduct land and topographical surveys across various industries, often in construction and environmental fields. While both roles utilize drone technology and FAA Part 107 certification, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

More about Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection jobs
What cities are hiring for Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Pipeline Inspection jobs? The most popular types of Drone Pipeline Inspection jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection jobs are:
Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Drone Pipeline Inspection job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,298 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Full-Time PLI Techs (Pipeline Integrity) - Kingsport, TN

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Acuren rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

Position Summary
Acuren is currently recruiting for full time PLI Techs at our Kingsport, TN location. This position requires traveling up to 75%+ of the time.
Working in the Pipeline Integrity Services group, a range of technical and operational assignments will be conducted relating to pipeline field examination, analysis, review, and reporting of pipeline inspection data, ultimately supporting our customers' pipeline integrity management programs. Approximately 90% of this role will be spent in the field, field office, and traveling across the US. 10% of time will be spent at the home division location. The PLI Technician will work independently for extended periods in remote areas.
Working in the Pipeline Integrity Services group, a range of technical and operational assignments will be conducted relating to pipeline field examination, analysis, review, and reporting of pipeline inspection data, ultimately supporting our customers' pipeline integrity management programs. Approximately 90% of this role will be spent in the field, field office, and traveling across the US. 10% of time will be spent at the home division location. The PLI Technician will work independently for extended periods in remote areas.
Responsibilities
  • Adherence to Acuren and customer required procedures and specifications, including reports
  • Perform direct assessment of as-found pipe condition, including coating assessment, soils and topography, and cathodic protection
  • Perform direct examination to assess pipe for cracks, corrosion, deformation, and manufacturing anomalies
  • Correlate as-found pipe features to Inline Inspection (ILI) log
  • Conduct fit-for-service evaluations as per ASME B31.3 and RSTRENG
  • Conduct hazard assessments prior to beginning work and follow safe work procedures
  • Calibration and set up of NDE equipment
  • Provide clients with quality services in a timely manner
  • Follow regulatory requirements, work to codes, procedures, and techniques
  • Be responsible for the custody, care and correct use of valuable technical equipment, tools, machinery, publications, materials, job items, vehicles, and other assets
  • Understanding of Pipeline Integrity processes, techniques, and procedures
  • Compose and write pipeline integrity inspection reports, including assisting other pipeline integrity technicians with reporting
  • Maintaining metrics on reporting, costs, productivity, and priority digs
  • Updating pipeline integrity databases and managing FTP sites
  • Attending operational meetings with customer engineers and project engineers/managers
  • Assist with dig package and cost estimating
  • Responsible for on-the-job training and guidance of PLI Assistants and PLI Junior Technicians

Requirements
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Some college preferred
  • Technical background desired
  • Experience working with pipeline integrity or pipeline maintenance positions
  • Extensive knowledge of quality and safety requirements
  • Candidate must have current and valid Magnetic Particle Testing Level 2 and Ultrasonic Thickness Level 2
  • Candidate must have at least one of the following certifications or endorsements:
    • Creaform 3D Laser Scanning (Handyscan)
    • Automated Corrosion Scan Mapping
    • Ultrasonic Phased Array or TOFD
    • In-situ Material Verification (Frontics or MMT HSD Tester)
  • Candidate preference for NACE Level CIP Level I / CP Level I

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.
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