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Mapping Pilot Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Rochester, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

ABOUT Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain ... Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems PAY AND BENEFITS From the day you start ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Duluth, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

ABOUT Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain ... Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems PAY AND BENEFITS From the day you start ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

ABOUT Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain ... Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems PAY AND BENEFITS From the day you start ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Plymouth, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

ABOUT Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain ... Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems PAY AND BENEFITS From the day you start ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

ABOUT Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain ... Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems PAY AND BENEFITS From the day you start ...

6AM City, LLC

Senior Full Stack Software Engineer

Virginia, MN · On-site

$128 - $195/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Drone piloting experience, particularly possessing an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with 3D mapping using GIS layers, with software such as Maptiler, Mapbox, mbtiles, & Deck.gl.

S3 Staffing USA

Industrial Engineer

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

... mapping. Demonstrated ability to perform time studies/work measurement and translate results into ... Launch readiness: successful pilot/ramp with stable cycle times, improved first-pass yield, and ...

S3 Staffing USA

Industrial Engineer

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

... value stream mapping.  Demonstrated ability to perform time studies/work measurement and ... pilot/ramp with stable cycle times, improved first-pass yield, and reduced rework.  Documented ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMapping Pilot JobsMapping Pilot Jobs in Minnesota

Mapping Pilot information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mapping pilot?

To thrive as a Mapping Pilot, you need a solid understanding of aeronautical principles, geospatial data collection, and flight regulations, often supported by a commercial pilot’s license and relevant mapping experience. Familiarity with GIS software, aerial photography equipment, and drone or manned survey systems is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help ensure mission accuracy and effective coordination with ground teams. These skills are crucial for producing reliable mapping data and maintaining operational safety in diverse and dynamic field environments.

What is a mapping pilot?

Mapping pilots are specialized professionals who operate aircraft or drones to collect geospatial data for mapping and surveying purposes. They use advanced technology such as aerial cameras, LiDAR, or sensors to capture detailed images and measurements of land, infrastructure, or natural features. The data collected by mapping pilots is used in various industries, including construction, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and urban planning. Mapping pilots often work closely with surveyors, GIS specialists, and engineers to ensure accurate and precise data collection. Their work is critical in creating up-to-date maps and 3D models for analysis and decision-making.

How do mapping pilots typically collaborate with ground teams and data analysts during a mapping mission?

Mapping Pilots work closely with ground teams to coordinate flight plans, ensure compliance with regulations, and address any on-site challenges such as weather or airspace restrictions. They also partner with data analysts to ensure that the imagery or sensor data collected meets the project's technical requirements. Effective communication is key, as pilots must relay real-time updates and adjust flight paths as needed based on feedback from both the ground crew and data processing teams. This collaborative process helps ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the mapping mission.

What is the difference between Mapping Pilot vs GIS Technician?

AspectMapping PilotGIS Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, pilot certification, GIS knowledgeAssociate's or Bachelor's in GIS, cartography, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, aerial mapping, aircraft operationOffice-based, GIS software, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageSurveying firms, mapping companies, government agenciesUrban planning, environmental agencies, utilities

Mapping Pilots primarily operate aircraft to capture aerial data, requiring pilot certifications and fieldwork experience. GIS Technicians focus on data management, analysis, and map creation using GIS software. While both roles support mapping projects, Mapping Pilots are more field and aircraft-oriented, whereas GIS Technicians work mainly in office settings with digital data. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mapping Pilot jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Mapping Pilot jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Mapping Pilot jobs in Minnesota?

For Mapping Pilot jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mapping Pilot jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Mapping Pilot jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Mapping Pilot jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Mapping Pilot job openings:

Mapping Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mapping Pilot job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

GPS & Construction Technology Specialist

Central Specialties, Inc.

Alexandria, MN • On-site

$60K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: GPS & Construction Technology Specialist
Reports To: VP of Earthworks and Infrastructure
Status: Salary (Exempt)
Location: Central Specialties - Alexandria, In Person
Schedule: Full-time, year-round, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. with extended hours as needed from April - November.
Position Summary
The GPS & Construction Technology Specialist is responsible for managing, maintaining, and supporting all GPS machine control, survey, and positioning technology used throughout the company's heavy highway construction operations. This position works closely with project managers, superintendents, foremen, survey crews, estimators, and equipment operators to ensure accurate digital models, machine guidance systems, and field layout that improve productivity, efficiency, and quality.
The GPS & Construction Technology Specialist serves as the company's technical expert for machine control systems, digital modeling, and construction positioning technology while supporting emerging technologies, including drone-based mapping and stockpile quantity verification.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Prepare, build, and maintain digital terrain models (DTMs), surface models, alignments, and machine control files from construction plans.
  • Upload, calibrate, and maintain GPS machine control files for dozers, motor graders, excavators, rollers, and other GPS-equipped construction equipment.
  • Verify the accuracy of GPS models and machine control data prior to project startup.
  • Support field personnel with project setup, localization, calibration, and site troubleshooting.
  • Coordinate with project managers and survey personnel to ensure project control and design information remain accurate and current.
  • Perform site visits to verify machine control performance and resolve GPS-related issues.
  • Train equipment operators and field personnel on the proper use of GPS machine control systems.
  • Maintain base stations, rovers, total stations, radios, and related positioning equipment.
  • Manage software updates, firmware updates, equipment inventory, and licensing.
  • Coordinate with equipment manufacturers and vendors regarding technical support, repairs, and warranty issues.
  • Review construction plans, specifications, and digital files for constructability and compatibility with GPS systems.
  • Assist estimating and project management teams with earthwork modeling, quantity calculations, and project planning.
  • Develop and maintain standards for GPS modeling, file naming, version control, and data management.
  • Assist with the collection and management of aerial survey data using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) when needed.
  • Support material inventory verification by utilizing drone-generated imagery and photogrammetry to calculate stockpile quantities.
  • Coordinate drone data collection with project managers and operations personnel to improve quantity tracking and project planning.
  • Ensure proper documentation and backup of project files.
  • Stay current on emerging GPS, surveying, drone, and machine control technologies applicable to heavy highway construction.
  • Travel to jobsites throughout the company's operating area as needed.

Qualifications
  • Equivalent combination of education and heavy civil construction experience will be considered.
  • Three or more years of experience with GPS machine control systems, construction surveying, or heavy highway construction preferred.
  • Experience with drone (UAS) operations for construction surveying, mapping, or stockpile quantity verification is preferred but not required.
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is preferred or the willingness to obtain certification after hire.
  • Experience supporting field construction operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong understanding of highway construction methods and earthwork operations.
  • Proficiency with GPS machine control systems such as Topcon, Trimble, Leica, or Carlson.
  • Experience using CAD and modeling software including AutoCAD Civil 3D, Trimble Business Center, Topcon Office, AGTEK, or similar applications.
  • Knowledge of construction staking, coordinate systems, projections, and site localization.
  • Ability to read and interpret roadway plans, profiles, cross sections, and specifications.
  • Familiarity with drone mapping software such as Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Propeller, or similar photogrammetry platforms is a plus.
  • Understanding of aerial imagery, point clouds, orthomosaic maps, and volumetric calculations is beneficial.
  • Ability to interpret drone-generated data for material inventory management and construction planning.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to effectively train equipment operators and field personnel.
  • Strong organizational and time management abilities.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

Physical Requirements
  • Frequently travel to active construction sites.
  • Walk on uneven terrain and around heavy equipment.
  • Lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Occasionally climb, bend, kneel, crouch, and stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to safely work around moving construction equipment and traffic.

Work Environment
This position divides time between office and field environments. The GPS Specialist regularly visits active heavy highway construction projects and is exposed to varying weather conditions, noise, dust, and heavy equipment operation. Occasional overnight travel may be required depending on project locations.
Success in This Role
A successful GPS Specialist enables construction crews to build projects accurately, efficiently, and safely by ensuring dependable machine control systems, accurate digital models, and responsive technical support. This role directly contributes to improved production, reduced rework, increased equipment efficiency, and successful project delivery.
Central Specialties is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

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