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Utility Inspection Drone Pilot Jobs in Tennessee

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Pilot - Weekend Shift

Brentwood, TN · On-site

Drone Pilot Location: Middle TN Worksite: In office Travel: ~10 percent Compensation: Based on experience Hiring Through: FocusPoint (confidential client) Overview FocusPoint Talent Solutions is ...

Apidel Technologies

Analyst 1

Nashville, TN · On-site

Communicate with the drone pilot and field staff during flights. Help with basic field notes ... inspections, maintenance planning, and long-term asset management.

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Memphis, TN · Remote

We are building a talent network of experienced drone operations professionals for potential ... Experience in BVLOS, logistics, delivery, inspection, or autonomous operations is a plus * Ability ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Memphis, TN · Remote

We are building a talent network of experienced drone operations professionals for potential ... Experience in BVLOS, logistics, delivery, inspection, or autonomous operations is a plus * Ability ...

EnterSource

Drill Operator

Shelbyville, TN

$20 - $26/hr

... existing utilities. * Conduct bore planning, pilot drilling, reaming, and product pullback ... Perform daily equipment inspections , maintenance, and basic repairs as needed. * Ensure all work ...

EnterSource

Drill Operator

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

... existing utilities. * Conduct bore planning, pilot drilling, reaming, and product pullback ... Perform daily equipment inspections , maintenance, and basic repairs as needed. * Ensure all work ...

EnterSource

Drill Operator

Shelbyville, TN

$20 - $26/hr

... existing utilities. * Conduct bore planning, pilot drilling, reaming, and product pullback ... Perform daily equipment inspections , maintenance, and basic repairs as needed. * Ensure all work ...

L I Smith & Associates Inc

Party Chief

Nashville, TN · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

FAA Part 107 Drone License required or ability to obtain. Ability to work outdoors in varying ... Perform construction layout for roadway, bridge, utility, and building projects including control ...

L I Smith & Associates Inc

Party Chief

Paris, TN · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

FAA Part 107 Drone License required or ability to obtain. Ability to work outdoors in varying ... Perform construction layout for roadway, bridge, utility, and building projects including control ...

L I Smith & Associates Inc

Party Chief

Nashville, TN · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

FAA Part 107 Drone License required or ability to obtain. Ability to work outdoors in varying ... Perform construction layout for roadway, bridge, utility, and building projects including control ...

L I Smith & Associates Inc

Party Chief

Paris, TN · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

FAA Part 107 Drone License required or ability to obtain. Ability to work outdoors in varying ... Perform construction layout for roadway, bridge, utility, and building projects including control ...

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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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

Cities in Tennessee 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 Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Drone Pilot - Weekend Shift

Brentwood, TN • On-site

FOCUSPOINT
Business Management Consulting • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about FOCUSPOINTexternal

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Drone Pilot

Location: Middle TN
Worksite: In office
Travel: ~10 percent
Compensation: Based on experience
Hiring Through: FocusPoint (confidential client)

Overview

FocusPoint Talent Solutions is recruiting for a Drone Pilot to support a confidential client in the industrial operations sector. This role is ideal for an experienced UAS professional who thrives in complex environments where safety, situational awareness, and real‑time decision support are essential.

The employer operates multiple large‑scale facilities across the region. All candidate engagement flows exclusively through FocusPoint to protect client confidentiality.

Role Summary

The Drone Pilot leads mission planning, execution, and data capture across controlled industrial environments. This includes advanced flight operations, emergency‑readiness support, regulatory compliance, and collaboration with operations and analytics teams to convert aerial data into actionable insights.

The role also supports a centralized operations function responsible for monitoring live site conditions and escalating critical issues.

Key Responsibilities

Flight Operations & Mission Planning

  • Plan and execute drone missions, including advanced operations in controlled airspace.

  • Maintain readiness for rapid deployment during urgent or time‑sensitive events.

  • Identify opportunities to enhance safety, efficiency, and operational visibility through UAS technology.

Regulatory & Safety Compliance

  • Ensure all operations align with federal and state UAS regulations.

  • Implement safety protocols, conduct risk assessments, and maintain incident‑reporting standards.

Data Capture & Analysis

  • Collect, process, validate, and deliver aerial data.

  • Partner with analysts to extract insights and support operational decision‑making.

Operational Monitoring

  • Support a centralized operations function by monitoring live data feeds for anomalies or emerging risks.

  • Provide timely, clear updates to leadership during critical events.

Team Communication & Leadership

  • Maintain team readiness through consistent communication.

  • Promote a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications

  • BA degree in a relevant field or 5+ years of industry experience.

  • Demonstrated experience operating drones in industrial, infrastructure, or high‑complexity environments.

  • Strong understanding of industrial operations, safety protocols, and risk management.

  • FAA Part 107 certification (required).

  • Proficiency with data‑analysis and visualization tools.

  • Strong communication, leadership, and project‑management skills.

Values & Behaviors

The ideal candidate demonstrates:

  • A commitment to safety and disciplined execution.

  • Accountability and ownership of outcomes.

  • Integrity and direct communication.

  • A growth mindset and continuous‑improvement orientation.

  • Curiosity and a willingness to challenge assumptions.

Work Environment & Schedule

  • Location: Greater Nashville region

  • Travel: Approximately 10% to regional operational sites

  • Schedule: Weekend‑focused, 30‑hour workweek with a compressed shift structure (morning or evening track available)

Why Work with FocusPoint
As a trusted staffing partner to industry-leading companies, FocusPoint provides access to roles that align with your professional goals, and we advocate for your success throughout the recruitment process. Our team understands appropriate skillsets and takes a consultative approach ensuring that each match is grounded in both experience and fit.

How to Apply
To ensure confidentiality and alignment with our client’s hiring process, all applications must be submitted through FocusPoint. Please do not attempt to contact the client directly. Interested candidates should reach out to FocusPoint’s recruitment team with any questions.

About FocusPoint:
FocusPoint specializes in connecting top-tier professionals with exceptional opportunities in accounting, technology, healthcare, and leadership. We prioritize building meaningful connections, ensuring candidates find roles that align with their skills, goals, and passions.
 
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