Utility Drone Pilot – Inspections & Data Analytics

All Aviation Jobs; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Paid training

Benefits from day one

Transit subsidies

Flexible schedule

Job summary

CenterPoint Energy is seeking a skilled Drone Pilot to support aerial inspections of electric and gas utility assets in the Houston area. The role emphasizes FAA Part 107 compliance, data collection, and mapping to improve infrastructure monitoring and maintenance programs.

The candidate should have 2+ years of UAS experience, thermography capabilities, and the ability to operate in varied weather conditions. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Requires FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and Level 1 thermography certification.
• Bachelor's degree preferred; 5+ years in utilities or UAS-related work can substitute.
• Experience with thermal imaging, LiDAR or multispectral sensors.
• Knowledge of utility infrastructure and inspection standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate drones to inspect electric and natural gas assets.
• Plan and execute FAA-compliant flight missions.
• Analyze aerial imagery and sensor data for reports.
• Perform pre/post-flight inspections and risk assessments.
• Provide technical reports to engineers and maintenance teams.
• Maintain flight logs and UAS equipment in working order.
• Train entry-level drone pilots as needed.
• Develop and refine SOPs for drone operations.

Skills

FAA Part 107

Regulatory compliance

Safety & risk management

Flight operations coordination

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, PM or related Tech

5+ years experience in utilities, PM, process improvement or UAS

Level 1 sUAS Thermography certification

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Tools

UAS flight planning tools

Thermal imaging sensors

LiDAR sensors

Multispectral sensors

Job description

CenterPoint Energy is seeking a skilled Drone Pilot to support aerial inspections of electric and gas utility assets in the Houston area. The role emphasizes FAA Part 107 compliance, data collection, and mapping to improve infrastructure monitoring and maintenance programs.

The candidate should have 2+ years of UAS experience, thermography capabilities, and the ability to operate in varied weather conditions. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential.