Drone Pilot

Posted: 05/18/2026 Job Number: 149240

Job Description

Madden Industrial Craftsmen is seeking Drone Pilots for our client supporting industrial coating and pressure washing operations in Rio Grande City, TX and surrounding project locations. This role supports large-scale industrial work utilizing specialized paint and pressure washing drones on infrastructure and field projects. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, dependable, and comfortable working long hours in outdoor environments while operating drone equipment as part of a traveling crew.

Pay & Schedule
Pay: $25-$30/hour DOE (Prevailing Wage / Davis-Bacon project)
Shift: Approximately 12-hour shifts based on project needs
Position Type: Project-Based / Full-Time
Per Diem: $140/day
Travel: Travel required throughout project areas; company transportation provided to and from job sites

Key Responsibilities

Operate industrial paint and pressure washing drones safely and efficiently
Conduct drone operations in accordance with company procedures and job specifications
Support industrial coating and cleaning operations on large-scale field projects
Monitor drone performance and communicate operational issues to the crew
Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements during operations
Work as part of a 4-person field crew in outdoor and industrial environments
Maintain awareness of surroundings including overhead hazards, weather, and job site conditions
Support project production goals while maintaining safe operating practices
Required Qualifications

Experience operating drones or related remote-operated equipment preferred
Ability to work outdoors in physically demanding environments for extended shifts
Comfortable working around industrial equipment and active job sites
Ability to travel consistently for project work
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a team
Steel-toed boots required
Ability to work long hours and maintain reliable attendance
Preferred Qualifications

FAA Part 107 Drone License
Experience operating industrial, agricultural, surveying, or specialty drones
Experience in industrial painting, pressure washing, construction, or field service environments
Valid driver's license preferred
Benefits

Prevailing Wage Opportunity
Per Diem Provided
Company Transportation to Job Sites
Overtime Opportunities

Work Environment
This role operates in outdoor industrial and infrastructure environments supporting coating and pressure washing operations. Work includes exposure to weather, heights, industrial equipment, and physically demanding conditions. PPE and safety compliance are required at all times.

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