Drone Pilot/Field Inspector

Essential HR; Canada; Remote; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative inspection company is seeking a Drone Pilot/Field Inspector to join their team. This remote position involves traveling to oil refineries for advanced inspections of delayed coke drums. Candidates should have a Transport Canada certification, over 5 years of drone operating experience, and a strong technical background in drone systems. The role offers competitive compensation, bonuses, and opportunities for international travel.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Bonus program

Comprehensive benefits

Home office expense coverage

Opportunities for international travel

Qualifications

• Legally entitled to work in Canada.
• Able to maintain required safety certifications.
• Able to participate in random drug and alcohol testing.

Responsibilities

• Operate drones safely in refinery environments.
• Plan and execute drone flights for inspections.
• Post-process data and generate client reports.
• Collaborate with field teams on inspections.
• Participate in R&D and equipment maintenance.

Skills

Transport Canada Certified Drone Pilot – Advanced Operations

5+ years of relevant drone operating experience

Demonstrated experience operating drones in industrial settings

Strong technical knowledge of drone systems

Proficient computer skills

Valid Canadian driver's license

Legally entitled to work in Canada

Valid Canadian passport

Education

Post-secondary education (college diploma or university degree)

Job description

Location: Remote (Toronto/Vancouver/Edmonton/Calgary / Home Office-Based)

Travel: Up to 30–40%, national and international

Company: CIA Inspection Inc. (CIA)

Position Type: Full-time

About - CIA

Since 1991, CIA Inspection Inc. has been at the forefront of innovation in non-destructive examination (NDE) techniques for the delayed coke drum industry. We pioneered modern inspection methods using custom-built, remotely operated electro-mechanical equipment (3D laser scanners, optical systems, robotics), setting the global standards adopted today.

As demand for our value-added services continues to grow, we are seeking an experienced and technically proficient Drone Pilot to join our world-class team.

About the Role

As a Drone Pilot/Field Inspector, you will travel to oil refineries around the globe to perform advanced inspections of delayed coke drums. Your responsibilities will include:

• Safe, compliant operation of drones in refinery environments.
• Planning and executing drone flights for photography, videography, and structural surveys.
• Pre-flight maintenance, diagnostics, and safety checks.
• Post-processing data, generating insights and client-facing reports.
• Collaborating with field teams and learning to operate CIA’s proprietary, patent-protected equipment.
• Participating in broader company activities such as research & development, technical support, and equipment maintenance as needed.

Mandatory Qualifications & Requirements

• Transport Canada Certified Drone Pilot – Advanced Operations.
• 5+ years of relevant drone operating experience.
• Demonstrated experience operating drones in industrial settings, including confined-space platforms (e.g., Elios, ScoutDI).
• Strong technical knowledge of drone systems, including hardware, software, and data processing/mapping tools.
• Proficient computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, basic graphic design, and IT troubleshooting.
• Legally entitled to work in Canada.
• Valid Canadian driver’s license (unrestricted).
• Valid Canadian passport (no travel restrictions).
• Willing and able to travel up to 30–40%, including multi-day and occasional back-to-back trips.
• Able to participate and will pass random drug and alcohol testing.
• Able to maintain required safety certifications and wear full PPE in industrial environments.
• Post-secondary education (college diploma or university degree).

Additional Skills Considered an Asset

While not mandatory, candidates with the following skills and experience will be given strong consideration:

• Engineering or Technical Diploma/Degree (Mechanical, Electrical, Robotics, or related fields).
• Experience with laser-based optical systems or high-definition digital imaging.
• Understanding of electrical systems, robotics, or automation.
• Previous NDE, inspection, or field service experience.
• Familiarity with refinery operations, API/ASME standards.
• Completion of industrial safety training (e.g., Confined Space, Fall Protection, Respiratory Protection, CPR, First Aid).

Soft Skills and Work Traits

We’re looking for a high-performing team player who embodies:

• A positive, can-do attitude and strong work ethic.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
• Adaptability to changing schedules, long shifts, and challenging environments.
• Strong self-management skills when working independently from a home office.

Compensation & Perks

• Competitive salary based on experience and performance.
• Bonus program
• Comprehensive benefits
• Home office expense coverage.
• Opportunities for international travel and global project exposure.
• A chance to learn proprietary technologies and be part of an industry-leading team.

Accessibility & Equal Opportunity

CIA Inspection Inc. is committed to creating an inclusive, accessible workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment, selection, and/or assessment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application process, please notify us, and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Please Note

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. We appreciate your interest in CIA Inspection Inc. and thank all applicants for their time and effort.