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Utility Inspection Drone Pilot Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... and utility support Coordinate with various engineering design disciplines to produce cohesive ... startup activities, inspections, conducting pilots and full-scale remedial efforts, and ...

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Utility Inspection Drone Pilot information

What is a utility inspection drone pilot?

Utility Inspection Drone Pilots are professionals who operate drones to inspect infrastructure such as power lines, pipelines, and communication towers. They use drones equipped with cameras and sensors to capture high-resolution images and data, which help identify maintenance issues or potential hazards. This role requires specialized training in drone operation, knowledge of aviation regulations, and often an FAA Part 107 certification. The work improves safety, efficiency, and accuracy compared to traditional manual inspections.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a utility inspection drone pilot?

To thrive as a Utility Inspection Drone Pilot, you need strong knowledge of drone operations, FAA Part 107 certification, and an understanding of utility infrastructure. Familiarity with UAV flight planning software, high-resolution cameras, GIS systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help ensure accurate inspections and safety compliance. These skills and qualifications are crucial for conducting reliable inspections, maintaining regulatory compliance, and supporting infrastructure safety.

What challenges do utility inspection drone pilots face, and how can they be addressed?

Utility Inspection Drone Pilots often encounter challenges such as adverse weather conditions, navigating complex or obstructed environments, and ensuring regulatory compliance. To address these, pilots should stay up to date with weather forecasts, conduct thorough pre-flight site assessments, and maintain strong communication with ground teams. Additionally, keeping current with FAA regulations and utility company protocols helps ensure safe and efficient inspections. Proactive planning and continuous skills development are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Utility Inspection Drone Pilot vs Utility Line Worker?

AspectUtility Inspection Drone PilotUtility Line Worker
CertificationsFAA drone pilot license, safety trainingApprenticeship, OSHA safety certifications
Work EnvironmentAirborne inspections, remote locationsGround-based, utility poles, and lines
Industry UsageInspection, surveying, maintenanceInstallation, repair, maintenance of power lines

While both roles serve the utility industry, the Utility Inspection Drone Pilot specializes in aerial inspections using drones, requiring FAA certification and safety training. In contrast, the Utility Line Worker performs hands-on work on power lines and infrastructure, often requiring apprenticeships and OSHA certifications. The drone pilot focuses on remote, airborne tasks, whereas the line worker is physically present on-site for repairs and installations.

Are utility inspection drone pilots paid well?

Utility inspection drone pilots typically earn competitive wages that vary based on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can range from around $50,000 to over $100,000 annually, especially for those with specialized skills or in high-demand areas. The job often requires knowledge of drone operation, safety protocols, and sometimes technical maintenance skills.

Is there a big demand for utility inspection drone pilots?

Utility inspection drone pilots are in increasing demand as industries adopt drone technology for infrastructure inspections, maintenance, and safety assessments. The growing use of drones in utility sectors such as power lines, pipelines, and telecommunications has created more job opportunities for qualified pilots with certifications and experience in operating UAVs in challenging environments.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Inspection Drone Pilot jobs in Michigan?

For Utility Inspection Drone Pilot jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Inspection Drone Pilot jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Inspection Drone Pilot jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Utility Inspection Drone Pilot jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Utility Inspection Drone Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Utility Inspection Drone Pilot job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

UAV Drone Instructor Classroom Assistant - Part Time

CREATIVE MONEY CONCEPTS LLC

Detroit, MI โ€ข On-site

$15/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

AerialNomics is an educationally purposeful community where faculty, staff, and students share academic goals and strive for high standards that lead to the attainment of degrees and certificates, meaningful careers, and a committed citizenry of lifelong learners.
We value those who:

  • consistently act in the best interest of students (who have their priorities right);
  • get things accomplished (who execute);
  • are transparent (who are direct, truthful, and non-manipulative);
  • are positive in outlook (who see the glass as half-full); and
  • build constructive workplace relationships (who are team players).


We have an opening for Classroom Aid

The Classroom Aid will help supervise the scholars of our program during classroom instruction. The successful candidate should have experience in remote piloting and possess a current Part 107 UAS certificate. (Helpful but not necessary.)
The Classroom Aid must be knowledgeable about topics related to successfully operating a drone such as: FAA regulations, weather, privacy issues, battery maintenance, and various drone applications including use of drones for inspections, geological mapping, aerial photography surveys construction, utilities, pipeline, etc.

The role will be responsible for the following:
Instruction: Assist with the implemented Drone Technology course at the assigned location(s); facilitate the classroom instructional process; correctly perform and demonstrate all types of flying, maintenance and repair techniques, evaluate students, monitor progress, assign final grades; provide out-of-class academic assistance to students; maintain attendance and grade records; counsel and advise students regarding academic preparation and career goals; and work to retain students -Course and Curriculum Development: Participate in the selection of textbooks, equipment, supplies, and other learning resources; develop supplemental instructional materials; use current technology in preparation, creation and delivery of instruction; create and revise courses and/or curricula as needed; maintain updated course syllabi -Develop and Maintain a site on the school’s Learning Management System (eLearn) platform where class documents are stored (syllabi, classroom information, quizzes, tests, etc.) and available for students to access at any time. -Professional Growth: Remain current within field of assigned instruction, related occupational areas and technologies; acquire, maintain, and apply knowledge of current instructional methodologies and materials; attend scheduled college, divisional, professional development and in-service activities and participate in annual faculty evaluation process -Service to Students: Respect rights of students and access to educational opportunities; participate in registration process by advising, assist in recruitment, selection, orientation and evaluation of potential students. -In addition to teaching, the faculty member is expected to assist program graduates with employment opportunities, complete the annual Council on Occupational Education (COE) report for the program, maintain technical skills and acquire new technical skills as the industry evolves.
Position Requirements:
Education: High School/GED and possess a current FAA CFR14, Part 107C license and experience flying, maintaining and repairing drones.