Drone Operator | San Francisco, California

Service Robot Co.; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 76,000; Part time

Job summary

Service Robot Co. in San Francisco, CA is seeking a field-based drone operator on a contract basis. You will conduct drone flights for security patrols, site monitoring and inspections, with emphasis on safety and reliability.

You will complete pre-flight checks, follow FAA Part 107 rules, monitor weather and battery status, and report findings to the client team. Occasional nights, weekends, and on-call work are expected.

Qualifications

• Experience operating drones with focus on safety.
• Ability to follow flight rules and site-specific procedures.
• Good weather and battery monitoring.
• Willingness to work nights/weekends and on-call.
• Training and certification willingness.

Responsibilities

• Perform pre-flight checks and record flights.
• Adhere to FAA Part 107 and site flight rules.
• Monitor weather, signals, battery levels, and airspace.
• Pause flights when conditions are unsafe.
• Report observations to customer or site team.
• Transport and set up drones, batteries, equipment.
• Troubleshoot equipment and document incidents.

Skills

Drones operation

Safety procedures

Clear communication

Outdoor work

Tools

FAA Part 107 knowledge

Job description

San Francisco, California | Field work | Contract, paid per shift or mission | $25 to $55 per hour

About Service Robot Co.

Service Robot Co. helps businesses across all 50 states choose, deploy and maintain commercial robots, with 24/7 support. We supply all types of robots for all types of automation. We handle site assessments, robot selection, installation, system integration and team training. Purchase, financing and rental options are available, backed by ongoing maintenance and repairs. One partner from your first consultation through everyday operation.

The role

Operate drones for security patrols, site monitoring, and inspections at customer sites.

What you will do

• Complete pre-flight checks, operate the drone, and record the flight.
• Follow FAA Part 107 requirements and site‑specific flight rules.
• Monitor weather, signal, battery levels, and airspace conditions.
• Stop or cancel a flight when conditions are unsafe.
• Report observations clearly to the customer or site team.
• Transport and set up drones, batteries, and related equipment.
• Troubleshoot equipment problems and document any incidents.

What we are looking for

• Careful attention to checklists and safety procedures.
• Clear communication and calm decision‑making.
• Willingness to report mistakes and complete further training.
• Comfort working outdoors and handling equipment.
• Availability for occasional nights, weekends, and on‑call work.

Hobby or professional flying experience is useful. Applicants who are new to drones and willing to complete training and certification are welcome.

Training

You will complete an online course through our Service Robot Co. Academy, followed by in‑person training and the industry certifications needed for this role. The Academy is certificate training that we subsidize. Your first assignment is paid, with a specialist supporting you remotely.