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Utility Inspection Drone Pilot Jobs in Minnesota

City of Rochester

RTIC Drone Assistant

Rochester, MN · On-site

$30/hr

... pilot, the Real Time Information Center (RTIC) Drone Assistant will provide additional staffing ... Conduct equipment inspections, document flight activity, and maintain UAV logs and records. Assist ...

Mortenson

Lead Surveyor I - Civil

Minneapolis, MN

$98K - $133K/yr

Serve as a primary drone resource, including flight operations, Propeller project site creation ... Support utility installation activities through accurately staking offsets, pipe alignments, and ...

S3 Staffing USA

Industrial Engineer

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

... utilities planning (power, air, vacuum, network) and footprint constraints. Conduct time studies ... Partner with Quality on control plans, inspection methods, and process capability; ensure the line ...

All JobsUtility Inspection Drone Pilot JobsUtility Inspection Drone Pilot Jobs in Minnesota

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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

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

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

Utility Inspection Drone Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Inspection Drone Pilot job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Construction (Aviation) Engineer / Manager - Airfield Infrastructure

TKDA

Bloomington, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Do you prefer being out in the field instead of behind a desk? Do you enjoy managing construction activities, solving problems in real time, and seeing aviation infrastructure projects come to life? If so, join TKDA's Aviation team as a Construction Engineer supporting airport construction projects throughout Minnesota and across the country.
 
As a member of our multi-disciplined team, you will work alongside civil engineering, electrical engineering, and planning professionals to provide services to general aviation and commercial airports across the country. As shown by our extensive portfolio, you will contribute to the rehabilitation and construction of runways, taxiways, aprons, utilities, roadways, NAVAIDS, fueling facilities, and security enhancements, which will provide you with a variety of challenging project opportunities. This position is focused on aviation construction management and field engineering. Candidates should have education or experience related to construction engineering, construction management, civil engineering, transportation infrastructure, or similar disciplines. 
 
In this position, you will oversee construction operations of various projects at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, general aviation airports throughout greater Minnesota, and at various commercial airports throughout the country for commercial airlines. This position is primarily field-based and requires frequent travel to active airport construction sites throughout Minnesota dn other airport locations around the United States. You will be responsible for ensuring day-to-day construction activities are consistent with the plans and specifications. You will also collaborate with contractors and airport and/or airline representatives to review and provide input on construction issues and inspect activities in accordance with quality standards and code requirements to ensure projects come in on time and under budget with minimal change orders.
 
While on-site, you will serve as an advisor throughout the construction process by attending pre-construction and progress meetings, providing on-site routine technical and safety representation, preparing and presenting status reports, negotiating change orders, identifying issues and providing assistance in resolving construction and design related challenges. You will also be responsible for determining desired/required material specifications and coordinating material testing, conducting surveys, measuring quantities for payment, logging and photographing observation and construction activities, and assisting or providing guidance to construction inspectors. While in the office, you will assist with the development of proposals, estimate project budgets and schedules, and conduct constructability reviews of project plans.
 
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related infrastructure-focused discipline.
  • Recent graduate or experienced professional with up to five years of progressive transportation or municipal construction management experience.
  • Experience supporting airport construction, runway rehabilitation, taxiway reconstruction, utility improvements, or other heavy civil infrastructure projects is highly desirable. 
  • Strong working knowledge of construction methods/practices, the preparation and assembly of construction documentation.
  • Demonstrated ability to accurately interpret and verify engineering specifications and construction plans in accordance with construction operation activities and requirements.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and effective verbal and written communication skills; ability to participate in and lead discussions during plan reviews, progress meetings, project team meetings, and site observations.
  • Basic working knowledge of AutoCAD or Civil 3D.
  • Working knowledge of MS Office Suite applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to travel up to 75% to perform site inspections/observations; overnight travel may be required.
  • Must possess a valid Driver's License with a clean driving record.
  • Ability to work outdoors year-round on active construction sites and in close proximity to active airport operations; ability to work overnight hours on occasion during primary construction season (April - October).
  • Ability to carry up to 50 pounds across rough terrain and stand for extended periods of time to perform observation and inspection responsibilities. 
  • Authorization to work permanently in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship. TKDA does not provide employment visa sponsorship or transfers.
Advantageous Qualifications
  • FAA licensed drone pilot.
  • Previous experience conducting engineering, as-built, and topographic surveys for transportation, utility design, or similar infrastructure projects; working knowledge of total stations, global positioning system (GPS) and data collectors.
  • Previous experience processing survey field data to develop background AutoCAD drawings.
  • Valid Construction Site Management, Erosion & Sediment Control, or Concrete Inspection certifications. 
$73,600 - $81,800 a year
The listed salary range reflects only the starting base pay range for candidates with 0-5 years of related experience. Compensation may vary based on experience, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Upon acceptance of a conditional offer of employment, the selected candidate will be required to complete a standard pre-employment background screening, which consists of Social Security verification, educational verification, review of criminal convictions, and driving history.
 
Note: To be considered for this position and to perform the assigned responsibilities, the selected candidate must complete and pass all background and security requests required by state and/or federal agencies responsible for aviation operations as a condition of employment.

Join Our 100% Employee-Owned Firm
At our company, every employee is an owner. From the front desk to the corner office, every one of our 430+ professionals thrive on collaboration and holistic development. Our success is collective, and so are the rewards.
 
Comprehensive Benefits
Health Benefits: Enjoy medical, dental, vision, and life insurance from day one
Annual Incentive Plan: Eligible for discretionary bonuses
HSA Contributions: Receive monthly employer contributions if you choose an HSA-eligible plan
401(k) Match: Get employer matching on your 401(k) deferrals
ESOP: Benefit from our Employee Stock Ownership Plan, funded entirely by company profits
Paid Time Off: Accrue PTO based on your professional experience and enjoy eight paid holidays per year
 
Upon receiving a formal offer, you will get a personalized Total Compensation Overview (TCO) to see how everything adds up and what it looks like to be part of our community.
 
TKDA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status, gender identity, or any other characteristics protected by law. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, all applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. 
 
All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future visa sponsorship needs or requirements. TKDA does not sponsor any type of employment visas, including but not limited to H1B, F1 OPT/CPT, TN, or other work authorization programs.
 
*Pre-Employment Screening*
Upon acceptance of a conditional offer of employment, the selected candidate will be required to complete a standard pre-employment background screening, which consists of Social Security verification, educational verification, review of criminal convictions, and driving history.
 
*Notice to Recruiters and Placement Agencies*
TKDA will not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or placement agencies unless a service agreement is in place. In the event TKDA receives an unsolicited resume without a service agreement in place, TKDA will not be obligated to pay a service fee of any amount nor will TKDA be held liable to terms or conditions under any agreement of any kind that has not been authorized in writing by a TKDA officer.
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About TKDA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1910

Social media

Twitter

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