Drone Pilot
Aerones · Denton, TX · 3 wk ago
On-siteOTHRFull-time
Job Summary
AERONES is seeking Field Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join their U.S. Operations Team. The role involves drone-based inspections of wind turbines and collecting visual data to support blade condition assessments. The position requires extensive travel across the United States.
About the Role
This role focuses on performing drone-based inspections of wind turbines and collecting high-quality visual data. It does not include wind turbine maintenance, repair, or climbing responsibilities.
Responsibilities
- Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA regulations and company procedures
- Capture high-resolution images and inspection data of wind turbine blades, towers, and related components
- Take manual photographs of blade rotations and turbine conditions as required by inspection protocols
- Conduct pre-flight planning, airspace assessments, risk evaluations, and equipment checks
- Manage, organize, and upload inspection data, photographs, and reports to company systems
- Ensure accurate documentation of completed inspections and field activities
- Communicate inspection findings and operational updates to project managers and internal teams
- Maintain drone equipment and perform routine inspections to ensure operational readiness
- Adhere to all company safety policies, client requirements, and industry standards
Requirements
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
- Experience operating commercial drones in a professional environment
- Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Strong attention to detail and ability to capture high-quality inspection imagery
- Experience with data collection, photography, or inspection operations preferred
- Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record
- Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and physical examination
- Strong communication, organizational, and documentation skills
- DJI Mavic 3, DJI Matrice, or similar commercial inspection drones preferred
- Previous experience conducting infrastructure, utility, energy, construction, or industrial inspections
- Familiarity with drone mission planning, flight logging, and data management software
- Experience working in renewable energy or wind turbine inspection environments is a plus
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and move equipment weighing up to 50 lbs
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, rain, and dust
- Ability to travel extensively and work in remote field locations
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and perform field inspection activities for extended periods
- Ability to safely wear and utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with manufacturer and company guidelines
Safety-Sensitive Position Requirements
- This is a safety-sensitive position involving the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), driving company vehicles, and independent field work at remote wind farm locations.
- Employees must be able to safely perform all essential job functions without impairment that could affect judgment, alertness, coordination, decision-making, or operational performance.
- Candidates must comply with all company, client, FAA, OSHA, and site-specific drug and alcohol policies, including pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and post-incident testing requirements.
Benefits
- 30 USD/hr
- Full paid travel and lodging for projections nationwide
- $60 a day per diem for meal & incidentals
- Work for a global team pioneering the future of wind turbine technology
- AERONES is an Equal Opportunity Employer