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Utility Pilot Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Directional Drilling Locator

Harmony, MN

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Maintain safe clearance from existing underground utilities. * Assist with pilot boring, backreaming, conduit installation, and pullback. * Operate a mud vacuum and support potholing, drilling-fluid ...

Directional Drilling Locator

Harmony, MN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Maintain safe clearance from existing underground utilities. * Assist with pilot boring, backreaming, conduit installation, and pullback. * Operate a mud vacuum and support potholing, drilling-fluid ...

... pilot initiatives, and Windsource enrollments during lower-volume periods. Process high-volume ... Utility or rebate program experience preferred. Familiarity with PDF handling, scanning, and ...

... carrier, pilot wire, transfer, transfer trip, fiber optic, CVT's, line tuners, line traps, etc ... The firm partners with utilities, commercial, industrial, data center, and government clients, and ...

... carrier, pilot wire, transfer, transfer trip, fiber optic, CVT's, line tuners, line traps, etc ... The firm partners with utilities, commercial, industrial, data center, and government clients, and ...

Industrial Engineer

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

... utilities planning (power, air, vacuum, network) and footprint constraints. * Conduct time studies ... Launch readiness: successful pilot/ramp with stable cycle times, improved first-pass yield, and ...

Industrial Engineer

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

... utilities planning (power, air, vacuum, network) and footprint constraints. Conduct time studies ... Launch readiness: successful pilot/ramp with stable cycle times, improved first-pass yield, and ...

Industrial Engineer

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

... utilities planning (power, air, vacuum, network) and footprint constraints.  Conduct time ... pilot/ramp with stable cycle times, improved first-pass yield, and reduced rework.  Documented ...

Station Manager - Airline Crew Transportation SkyHop Global is Hiring a Station Manager in MSP! Lead, Innovate, and Elevate Your Career! Are you a hands-on leader with a passion for logistics and ...

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Utility Pilot information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$22

$32

How much do utility pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility pilot in Minnesota is $22.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $25.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility pilot?

A utility pilot is a professional pilot who operates aircraft for non-passenger, specialized missions such as aerial surveys, firefighting, powerline inspections, agricultural spraying, and other tasks supporting infrastructure and industry. These pilots often fly helicopters or small fixed-wing aircraft in challenging environments and conditions. Utility pilots require specialized training beyond standard commercial licenses, focusing on low-level flight operations and mission-specific skills. Their work plays a crucial role in supporting public safety, environmental monitoring, and essential services.

What are some of the typical challenges utility pilots face in coordinating with ground crews during operations?

Utility Pilots often work closely with ground crews for tasks like aerial surveying, powerline inspections, or firefighting. A common challenge is maintaining clear and constant communication to ensure safety and precision, especially in remote or hazardous environments. Weather conditions, changing schedules, and varying terrains can also complicate coordination. Effective teamwork and strong situational awareness are essential to overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility pilot?

To thrive as a Utility Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, strong knowledge of aviation regulations, and proficiency in aircraft operation under diverse conditions. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aerial survey equipment, and possibly specialized certifications like instrument rating are often required. Excellent situational awareness, communication, and decision-making skills set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safety, efficiency, and adaptability during varied and often challenging utility flight operations.

What is the difference between Utility Pilot vs Flight Engineer?

AspectUtility PilotFlight Engineer
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), specific type ratingsFAA Flight Engineer Certificate, type-specific training
Work EnvironmentOperate utility aircraft, often in remote or agricultural settingsAssist pilots, monitor aircraft systems during flight
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, agricultural, firefighting, surveyCommercial airlines, cargo, military, specialized aircraft

Utility Pilots and Flight Engineers both require specialized certifications and work in aviation, but Utility Pilots primarily operate aircraft in utility roles such as agriculture or firefighting, while Flight Engineers assist with aircraft systems during flight. The roles differ in responsibilities and typical work environments, though both are essential in the aviation industry.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Pilot jobs in Minnesota? For Utility Pilot jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Pilot jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Pilot jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Utility Pilot job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,181 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Contractor

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Locator to join a two-person horizontal directional drilling crew. This individual will work closely with an experienced drill operator to safely and accurately install underground fiber conduit and larger-diameter pipe.

The ideal candidate can independently locate the drill head, operate supporting equipment, and transport the drill package using a Class A CDL.

Responsibilities

  • Track the drill head and communicate depth, pitch, roll, direction, and steering corrections to the drill operator.
  • Operate DCI/DigiTrak and Underground Magnetics locating systems.
  • Review bore paths, utility markings, entry points, exit points, and required depths.
  • Maintain safe clearance from existing underground utilities.
  • Assist with pilot boring, backreaming, conduit installation, and pullback.
  • Operate a mud vacuum and support potholing, drilling-fluid management, and jobsite cleanup.
  • Assist with directional drill setup, operation, inspections, and basic maintenance.
  • Drive a Class A truck and trailer with air brakes to transport an approximately 40,000-pound drill package.
  • Complete approximately five drill shots per day, depending on project conditions.
  • Perform general field duties necessary to support the two-person crew.

Qualifications

  • Previous HDD drill-locating experience.
  • Experience with DCI/DigiTrak or Underground Magnetics locating equipment.
  • Valid Class A CDL with air-brake experience.
  • Experience towing heavy equipment using a truck and trailer.
  • Familiarity with directional drilling, underground fiber, conduit, and utility construction.
  • Ability to operate a mud vacuum and assist with directional drill operations.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a two-person crew.
  • Dependable attendance and the ability to report to the Harmony shop each morning.
  • Ability to work outdoors and perform physically demanding fieldwork.


Employment Type: CONTRACTOR