Drone pilot Jobs in USA

Project Job Title:

• Drone Pilot / Surveyor Location: Remote Job Type: Full-Time Reports To: Director of Engineering Travel: Extensive travel to active project sites required Position Summary The Drone Pilot / Surveyor is responsible for performing aerial data collection, mapping, surveying support, and construction documentation across utility-scale solar EPC projects.
• This position utilizes Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), survey equipment, and specialized mapping software to collect accurate field data used to support engineering, estimating, construction, project controls, and site management.
• Working within a fast-paced, self-perform EPC construction environment, the Drone Pilot / Surveyor will support projects throughout the construction lifecycle—from existing-condition and preconstruction surveys through earthwork, pile installation, electrical construction, progress tracking, quantity verification, and final project documentation.
• The ideal candidate combines strong UAS flight capabilities with practical surveying and construction knowledge and understands how accurate, timely field data directly impacts the successful execution of large-scale solar projects.
• Key Responsibilities Plan and conduct UAS/drone flight operations across large utility-scale solar construction sites in accordance with FAA regulations, company procedures, and project requirements.
• Collect high-resolution aerial imagery and survey data for mapping, topographic surveys, construction progress, inspections, and project documentation.
• Perform photogrammetry and aerial mapping to produce Ortho mosaics, digital terrain models (DTMs), digital surface models (DSMs), point clouds, and other project deliverables.
• Support site surveying activities utilizing GPS/GNSS, RTK, robotic total stations, and other survey equipment as required.
• Establish, verify, and maintain survey control throughout the duration of construction.
• Support construction layout and verification activities for roads, grading, drainage, equipment pads, pile locations, electrical infrastructure, substations, and other project components.
• Perform existing-condition and preconstruction aerial surveys to document site conditions prior to mobilization and construction.
• Conduct routine progress flights to document construction status and provide project teams with current aerial imagery.
• Assist with earthwork quantity calculations, stockpile measurements, cut/fill analysis, and verification of completed work.
• Support grading operations by providing accurate surface data and comparing existing conditions against design surfaces.
• Provide survey and aerial data to support pile installation, tracker/racking construction, module installation, underground electrical systems, inverter/transformer locations, and other solar construction activities.
• Compare collected field data against IFC drawings, design models, and project specifications to identify potential discrepancies.
• Support quality control activities by documenting installed conditions and assisting with verification of completed construction.
• Process and manage drone imagery and survey data using applicable photogrammetry, CAD, GIS, and mapping software.
• Coordinate with Project Managers, Superintendents, Survey Managers, Engineers, Project Controls, and field personnel to determine survey and aerial data requirements.
• Maintain accurate flight logs, survey records, field notes, control documentation, and project files.
• Organize and maintain aerial imagery and survey data so information is readily accessible to project teams.
• Identify potential site, design, or construction issues through review of aerial and survey data and communicate findings to project leadership.
• Maintain UAS equipment, batteries, survey instruments, and associated technology in proper working condition.
• Perform pre-flight inspections and evaluate weather, airspace, site conditions, and potential hazards prior to flight operations.
• Ensure all UAS operations comply with FAA Part 107 requirements and applicable federal, state, local, client, and company requirements.
• Coordinate flight activities with project safety and field leadership to ensure drone operations do not interfere with cranes, equipment, electrical work, or other construction activities.
• Support multiple projects and travel between active construction sites based on project needs.
• Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, GIS, or related technical discipline preferred.
• Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required.
• Previous experience operating drones/UAS for surveying, mapping, engineering, or construction applications.
• Working knowledge of surveying principles, coordinate systems, elevations, benchmarks, and construction layout.
• Experience collecting and processing aerial imagery for photogrammetry and mapping applications.
• Experience with GPS/GNSS and RTK survey equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret civil plans, grading plans, site layouts, construction drawings, and specifications.
• Understanding of survey control and the importance of horizontal and vertical accuracy in construction applications.
• Strong computer and data-management skills.
• Ability to work independently in large, active construction environments while coordinating effectively with field personnel.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and priorities across multiple projects.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Ability and willingness to travel extensively based on project requirements.
• Preferred Qualifications Previous experience supporting utility-scale solar, renewable energy, heavy civil, power generation, or large-scale EPC construction projects .
• Experience working for a self-perform EPC or heavy civil contractor.
• Experience with DJI Enterprise, Trimble, Leica, Topcon, or similar professional UAS and survey equipment.
• Experience with photogrammetry and mapping platforms such as Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Propeller, Trimble Business Center, or similar applications.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil 3D, GIS, or comparable design/mapping software.
• Experience creating Ortho mosaics, point clouds, surface models, contour maps, and volumetric reports.
• Experience performing cut/fill analysis and earthwork quantity verification.
• Experience with Ground Control Points (GCPs), checkpoints, RTK/PPK workflows, and survey-grade drone mapping.
• Familiarity with solar site grading, pile installation, tracker systems, access roads, drainage systems, underground electrical collection systems, substations, and related utility-scale solar construction.
• Surveyor-in-Training (SIT/LSIT) certification or related surveying credentials are a plus but not required.
• Physical & Travel Requirements Ability to travel extensively and potentially remain near project sites for extended periods based on construction schedules.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions.
• Ability to walk large utility-scale solar sites over rough and uneven terrain.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods while performing field operations.
• Ability to carry and set up drone, survey, GPS, and related field equipment.
• Ability to work around heavy construction equipment while maintaining appropriate situational awareness.
• Ability to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Must be able to travel by vehicle and air as required. Powered by JazzHR