Drone Pilot Asset Inspector

Northpower Limited; Howick; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utility company in Auckland seeks a Drone Pilot Asset Inspector. You will operate drones for asset inspections, analyze field data, and prepare reports. The ideal candidate has drone technology expertise and a commitment to safety. This role offers competitive remuneration, ongoing professional development, and a supportive workplace culture.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration

In-house wellbeing programme

Discounts on gym memberships

Ongoing professional development

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in inspection or investigation work.
• Strong understanding of flight safety and mission planning.
• Proven commitment to HSE requirements.

Responsibilities

• Operate drones to inspect electrical assets across locations.
• Capture and analyze field data for actionable insights.
• Prepare detailed inspection reports with findings and recommendations.
• Conduct technical condition assessments of assets.
• Support integration of new technologies and solutions.

Skills

Drone technology expertise

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Part 101 and Part 102 commercial drone certification

Full, clean NZ Class 1 driver’s licence

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the role

About the role: As a Drone Pilot Asset Inspector, you’ll play a key role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of electricity networks, transmission systems, and generation assets, both our own and those of our customers. You’ll work on trial programs, help integrate new drone technologies into everyday business operations, and collaborate with key electricity distribution customers to deliver cutting edge solutions. This role is based in Auckland and reports to the Operations Manager - Inspection Solutions.

What you’ll be doing

• Operating RPAS/Drones to inspect electrical assets across varied locations.
• Capturing and analysing field data to provide actionable insights.
• Preparing detailed inspection reports with clear findings and recommendations.
• Conducting visual and technical condition assessments of assets.
• Supporting the trial and integration of new technologies, aircraft, and software solutions.
• Driving continuous improvements in drone operations, safety, and efficiency.
• Working closely with key team members to troubleshoot issues and resolve incidents.

About you

We’re looking for a tech-savvy professional with a can-do attitude and a passion for innovation and safety. You’ll be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions and be willing to travel across New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific as required.

To be successful, you’ll ideally have:

• At least 2 years’ experience in both office and field-based inspection or investigation work.
• A strong understanding of drone technology, flight safety, and mission planning.
• A Part 101 and Part 102 commercial drone certification.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills for clear reporting and effective collaboration.
• Proven commitment to Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) requirements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
• A full, clean NZ Class 1 driver’s licence.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.

What’s in it for you?

• This is a unique opportunity to pioneer new ways of working and take ownership of a role with huge growth potential.
• Competitive remuneration plus a tool-of-trade vehicle.
• An in-house wellbeing programme, peer support network (Kaitiaki), and EAP services.
• Life insurance and access to discounted medical insurance.
• Ongoing professional development and tailored leadership training.
• A supportive, friendly workplace where people are valued and appreciated.
• A social club, family events, and team activities.
• Discounts on gym memberships and a range of retail partners.

About us

Northpower is a New Zealand owned electricity and fibre network provider for Whangarei and Kaipara, with more than 60,000 connected customers. We are one of the largest multi-utility contractors in New Zealand, servicing the needs of clients in transmission, distribution, generation, and commercial sectors. With over 1,300 staff working together across 17 locations to keep the power on and the lights going for our customers, we pride ourselves on our excellence and innovation, providing commercially viable solutions for electrical and telecommunication design, construction, and maintenance requirements.

How to apply

Be part of a team where people come first, and innovation drives the future. Apply today via our careers website using reference #REQ1719.

Applicants must have NZ work rights.

Pre-employment checks include a criminal history check, medical assessment (including drug and alcohol testing), and reference checks.