UAS & Drone Inspection Jobs

A UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) or Drone Inspection Technician is a specialist who utilizes remotely piloted aircraft to gather critical data on industrial assets. This role merges traditional NDT principles with advanced robotics to inspect areas that are hazardous or difficult for humans to reach. By deploying drones equipped with high resolution sensors, technicians can identify structural defects, thermal anomalies, and signs of corrosion on assets such as wind turbines, flare stacks, and cooling towers.

Industrial drone pilots do more than fly the aircraft. They are responsible for complex mission planning that accounts for airspace regulations and technical payload requirements. The data they collect is often processed into high precision deliverables like 3D orthomosaic maps, digital twins, and LiDAR point clouds. In specialized applications, technicians use collision-tolerant drones to enter confined spaces such as pressure vessels or storage tanks. This eliminates the need for human entry into dangerous environments while providing superior visual coverage.

Success in this discipline requires a combination of flight proficiency and analytical expertise. Technicians must hold a valid FAA Part 107 remote pilot certificate. They often possess secondary certifications in Infrared Thermography or specific NDT methods. The use of advanced software for photogrammetry and AI-driven defect recognition is becoming a standard requirement in the field. As asset owners continue to prioritize safety and cost reduction, the demand for multi-disciplined pilots who can interpret NDT data from an aerial perspective is growing rapidly. Mastery of platforms from manufacturers like DJI, Skydio, and Flyability is essential for those looking to secure the best roles in the energy and infrastructure sectors.