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Utility Inspection Drone Pilot Jobs in Guthrie, OK

Utility Inspection Drone Pilot information

See Guthrie, OK salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do utility inspection drone pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility inspection drone pilot in Guthrie, OK is $17.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Inspection Drone Pilot, and why are they important?

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 are some common challenges Utility Inspection Drone Pilots face in the field, 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 are Utility Inspection Drone Pilots?

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 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.

What cities near Guthrie, OK are hiring for Utility Inspection Drone Pilot jobs? Cities near Guthrie, OK with the most Utility Inspection Drone Pilot job openings:

Field Robotic Operator (Drone Pilot)

Aerones

Oklahoma City, OK โ€ข Hybrid

$60/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Location: United States | 100% Travel Required | Full-Time

AERONES is a global leader in advanced wind turbine maintenance and robotic technologies. We are seeking highly motivated Field Robotic Operators - Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team.
This is a unique hybrid role combining professional drone inspection operations with hands-on wind turbine field technician responsibilities. You'll work with cutting-edge robotics technology while traveling to wind farms across the country.
If you enjoy technology, travel, problem-solving, and hands-on fieldwork, this is an exciting opportunity to build a long-term career in the rapidly growing renewable energy industry.

ย 

What You'll Do
In this role, you'll have the opportunity to travel to Wind Farms across the United States, with all Accommodation and Travel Expenses fully covered by the Company. This is a hybrid role combining professional Drone Inspection with hands-on Wind Turbine Field Technician responsibilities. The role requires both Drone Operations for inspection missions and on-site field work as part of Wind Turbine Operations, including physical work at height and in industrial environments.ย 

Job Tasks and Responsibilities:ย 

  • Maintenance and operation of robotic systems used for cleaning, inspection, and repair of wind turbines.
  • Performing routine inspections on turbines to ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.ย 
  • Operate and perform Drone inspections as needed
  • Preventative maintenance on wind turbines and associated systems to reduce downtime and maximize energy production.
  • Fault diagnosis and resolution of technical issues using advanced diagnostic tools and technology.
  • Reporting and documentation of work completed, including identifying issues, repairs, and maintenance performed.
  • Data Custody, Data Management, and Data Upload to Company servers.ย 
  • Report successfully completed tasks, analyze applicable data and as required inform relevant departments of safety and quality risks.
  • Ensuring adherence to Safety Protocols and Industry Standards.ย 

Requirements

  • Previous experience working in physically demanding environments
  • Ability to safely perform hands-on field work in challenging industrial conditions
  • Valid Drive's License and a clean driving recordย 
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificateย 
  • Willing and able to undertake a Background Check, Drug Screen, and Physical Check (Medical)ย 

Paid Training & Certifications:ย 

Aerones provides paid training for:ย 

  • OSHA 10ย 
  • NFPA 70Eย 
  • GWO Basic Safety Training (BST)
  • GWO Advanced Rescue Training (ART)
  • Confined Space Trainingย 
  • Self Rescue Line Training

All required training, certifications, and necessary equipment will be provided for qualified new hires.ย 

Highly Desired:ย 

  • DJI Mavic 3 or similar quadcopter experienceย 
  • Prior Military Serviceย 
  • GWO Basic Technical Training (BTT)
  • GWO Sea Survivalย 
  • GE / Vestas / Siemens Gamesa / Nordex Turbine Operations / LOTO

Physical Requirements:ย 

  • Climb wind turbines vertically (up to 400+ Feet)
  • Work in confined spaces and at heights for extended periodsย 
  • Lift and move equipment up to 50 lbs
  • Work outdoors in varying weather (heat, cold, wind, dust)
  • Physical fitness for field work and emergency rescue scenariosย 
  • Able to meet physical requirements and safely utilize required PPE within manufacturer guidelines

Safety-Sensitive Position Requirements:

This is a safety-sensitive position involving work at heights, operation of specialized equipment, independent field work, and emergency/self-rescue responsibilities.

Employees must be able to safely perform all essential job functions without impairment that could compromise safety, judgment, alertness, coordination, or operational performance.

Candidates must comply with all company, client, FAA, OSHA, and site-specific drug and alcohol policies, including pre-employment, random, and post-incident testing requirements.

The use of any substance, including prescribed medication, that may impair an employee's ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position may disqualify an individual from performing this role or require further medical evaluation consistent with applicable law.

Benefits

Eligible employees receive:

  • Medical Insurance (80% employer-paid)
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Term Life Insuranceย 
  • 10 Days Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 12 Paid Holidaysย 

What We Offer:ย 

  • Stable, long-term employment with career growth in a rapidly expanding, innovative Company
  • Fully paid Travel and Lodging for Projects Nationwideย 
  • $60 a day Per Diem for Meals & Incidentalsย 
  • Work for a Global Team pioneering the future of wind turbine technology

Aerones is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or Expression, National Origin, Age, Disability, Veteran Status, or any other legally protected status. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.ย 

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