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Utility Inspection Drone Pilot Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Kiewit Corporation

Drone Operator- Surveyor 1

Medford, OR · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Drone Operator - Transmission & Distribution Inspection Kiewit Power Delivery | Field-Based Role ... The ideal candidate has hands-on experience performing UAV-based utility inspections, understands ...

Kiewit

Drone Operator- Surveyor 1

Medford, OR · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Drone Operator - Transmission & Distribution Inspection Kiewit Power Delivery | Field-Based Role ... The ideal candidate has hands-on experience performing UAV-based utility inspections, understands ...

Aerotek

Drone Logistics Specialist

Pendleton, OR

$27 - $34/hr

Perform visual inspections and basic equipment support activities using mechanical aptitude and ... Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification. * Ability to meet FAA safety-sensitive employment ...

New

Winco

Field A&P Mechanic

Aurora, OR

$30 - $39.25/hr

We provide best-in-breed utility helicopters and crews to support projects of all complexities and ... Complete inspections when due, utilizing the appropriate checklist. * Change time-life/overhaul ...

Quanta Services

Field A&P Mechanic

Aurora, OR · On-site

$30 - $39.25/hr

We provide best-in-breed utility helicopters and crews to support projects of all complexities and ... Complete inspections when due, utilizing the appropriate checklist. * Change time-life/overhaul ...

Winco

Field A&P Mechanic

Aurora, OR · On-site

$30 - $39.25/hr

We provide best-in-breed utility helicopters and crews to support projects of all complexities and ... Complete inspections when due, utilizing the appropriate checklist. * Change time-life/overhaul ...

Quanta Services

Apprentice Field A&P Mechanic

Aurora, OR · On-site

$30 - $39.25/hr

We provide best-in-breed utility helicopters and crews to support projects of all complexities and ... Shadow and support aircraft inspections, learning to utilize the appropriate checklist under direct ...

Winco

Apprentice Field A&P Mechanic

Aurora, OR · On-site

$30 - $39.25/hr

We provide best-in-breed utility helicopters and crews to support projects of all complexities and ... Shadow and support aircraft inspections, learning to utilize the appropriate checklist under direct ...

Winco

Apprentice Field A&P Mechanic

Aurora, OR · On-site

$30 - $39.25/hr

We provide best-in-breed utility helicopters and crews to support projects of all complexities and ... Shadow and support aircraft inspections, learning to utilize the appropriate checklist under direct ...

Quanta Services

Aerial Lineman

Aurora, OR · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

We provide best-in-breed utility helicopters and crews to support projects of all complexities and ... As an aerial lineman, you'll play a critical role in the installation, inspection, and repair of ...

Winco

Aerial Lineman

Aurora, OR

$22 - $30/hr

We provide best-in-breed utility helicopters and crews to support projects of all complexities and ... As an aerial lineman, you'll play a critical role in the installation, inspection, and repair of ...

Winco

Aerial Lineman

Aurora, OR · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

We provide best-in-breed utility helicopters and crews to support projects of all complexities and ... As an aerial lineman, you'll play a critical role in the installation, inspection, and repair of ...

All JobsUtility Inspection Drone Pilot JobsUtility Inspection Drone Pilot Jobs in Oregon

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 Oregon?

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

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

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

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

Cities in Oregon 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 Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Drone Operator- Surveyor 1

Medford, OR • On-site

Kiewit Corporation
Construction Materials Wholesalers • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 80 rated construction

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Kiewit Corporationexternal

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Drone Operator - Transmission & Distribution Inspection
Kiewit Power Delivery | Field-Based Role
Position Overview
Kiewit is seeking a skilled Drone Operator to support inspection of overhead transmission and distribution (T&D) infrastructure for utility and energy projects across the U.S. This role focuses on conducting detailed aerial inspections of power line assets, capturing high-resolution data for condition assessment, and supporting maintenance, reliability, and engineering teams.
The ideal candidate has hands-on experience performing UAV-based utility inspections, understands structure and conductor components, and is comfortable working in active utility corridors and construction environments.
Key Responsibilities
Aerial Inspection Operations
Operate UAVs to perform detailed inspections of transmission and distribution systems, including structures, insulators, conductors, hardware, and associated assets.
Power Line Asset Inspection
Capture high-resolution imagery and video (and thermal data, if applicable) to identify defects such as damaged components, corrosion, vegetation encroachment, and clearance issues.
Right-of-Way (ROW) Assessment
Inspect and document vegetation conditions, encroachments, access routes, and environmental constraints along utility corridors.
Data Capture & Quality Assurance
Ensure consistent, repeatable data collection aligned with inspection standards and client requirements, maintaining high accuracy and reliability.
Data Processing & Deliverables
Process and organize inspection data into actionable outputs, including annotated imagery, inspection reports, and geospatial datasets for engineering and asset management teams.
Safety & Compliance
Conduct all UAV operations in compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations, Kiewit safety protocols, and client-specific utility requirements, including energized line considerations.
Project Coordination
Collaborate with utility clients, engineers, asset managers, and field teams to plan inspection missions, define data requirements, and deliver timely results.
Equipment Management
Maintain UAV platforms, sensors (visual and thermal), and support equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable field operations.
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Other Requirements:
    Regular, reliable attendance
    Work productively and meet deadlines timely
    Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment
    Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
    Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
    FIELD ROLES ONLY May work at various different locations and conditions may vary

Base Compensation: $75,000/yr - $85,000/yr

(Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)

We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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About Kiewit

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kiewit Infrastructure Engineering's Design-Build team is driving clients to turn to Kiewit during all stages of design-build projects. Through our integrated design and construction approach, our multi-disciplinary team works together to improve schedule, control costs and minimize risk. Our construction-focused engineers work collaboratively with our estimators and builders to design solutions that are innovative, constructible, and designed with a focus on safety. Clients benefit from the proven processes and tools used by Kiewit to minimize project risk. We are an in-house resource that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff shares experiences gained, innovative concepts, and best practices for all projects that we support.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1884

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