Job Title: Drone Pilot & Field Technician
Location: St. Paul, MN
Duration: 06+ Months (Contract/Temp with the possibility of extension)
Shift: 1st Shift (Monday Friday | 8:00 AM 5:00 PM)
Job Description:
We are seeking a Drone Pilot & Field Technician II to support product engineering and field operations related to autonomous vehicle and machine learning systems. This is a hands-on, field-based role focused on equipment setup, troubleshooting, drone-based data collection, and system testing. You'll work closely with engineering teams to improve data quality and field processes that power next-generation technology.
This role is ideal for a technically skilled field technician who enjoys working outdoors, traveling, and solving real-world hardware and system challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Perform field data collection, system testing, and pilot projects to support machine learning and autonomous systems
Operate drones for data capture in compliance with FAA and company regulations
Assemble, install, maintain, and troubleshoot field equipment and complex systems
Diagnose technical issues and perform emergency repairs and preventive maintenance
Support engineers with setup and testing of new products, tools, and processes
Identify process gaps and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives
Use product specifications to help design and execute test procedures
Document results and provide clear, actionable feedback to development teams
Follow all safety, regulatory, and operational procedures while in the field
Required Qualifications (Must-Haves)
FAA Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot License (or equivalent Remote Pilot Certification)
1 3 years of hands-on technical field experience
Strong hardware and equipment troubleshooting skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Willingness and ability to travel frequently (primarily Minnesota & Iowa)
Comfortable working outdoors in field environments
Valid driver's license
Availability for seasonal / project-based work
Strong safety and compliance mindset
Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting engineering, product testing, or field operations
Background in autonomous systems, robotics, agriculture technology, or sensors
Experience with system installation, configuration, and versioning
Familiarity with data collection, test execution, and performance measurement
Local candidates in Minnesota or Iowa preferred