Drone Pilot Asset Inspector

Are you ready to take your drone career to the next level and put your skills to work on critical national infrastructure? At Northpower, operating under our CAA Part 102 certification, you’ll deliver advanced RPAS inspections across New Zealand’s transmission network. Flying DJI Matrice RTK platforms, you’ll be working in complex transmission corridors as part of a professional crew where aviation discipline, safety, and technical expertise come first. From remote high‑country spans to urban substations, every mission is a chance to apply your skills where they matter most. Join us in a role that offers variety, travel, and the opportunity to grow into advanced RPAS operations, while helping keep the lights on across Aotearoa. Role Responsibilities: Conducting complex inspection missions with DJI RTK platforms across transmission lines, towers, substations and other RPAS operations as required. Working as part of a dedicated pilot + observer crew to ensure safe and compliant operations under Northpower’s CAA Part 102 certification. Supporting mission planning, risk assessments, and safety briefings using Fly Freely, Air Share, and Flight Advisor platforms. Capturing high‑resolution imagery and supporting post‑flight data processing to ensure inspection outputs meet client standards. Maintaining flight records, pilot logbooks, and Operational Competency Assessment (OCA) currency. Collaborating with the Chief Pilot and RPAS team to refine inspection methods, including EVLOS and BVLOS operations where authorised. Travelling to sites across New Zealand to deliver inspection projects on critical national infrastructure. About You: A current CAA NZ Part 101 certification (minimum), with a preference for Part 102 qualification and Operational Competency Assessment (OCA) currency within the last 12 months. Proven experience operating RPAS in complex environments, ideally around transmission or distribution assets. Strong working knowledge of airspace rules, including NOTAMs, ATC coordination, and controlled/uncontrolled airspace operations. Confidence working as part of a pilot + observer crew, using clear comms and standard phraseology. Familiarity with digital flight planning tools (FlyFreely, AirShare, Flight Advisor). A full, clean NZ Class 1 driver’s licence, and the flexibility to travel nationwide. Commitment to risk management, tailgate processes, and site safety controls. The ability to work independently and as part of a team. General aviation experience such as a PPL, AROC, or other crewed aviation background (highly desirable). What Northpower Offers You: Make real impact across Aotearoa in a stable and future‑focused sector. At Northpower, you’ll do work that matters and powers our communities while growing your career in an organisation that genuinely cares for its people. A people‑first culture built on safety, inclusion, and deep care, where contributions are recognised and wellbeing is supported through EAP and our award‑winning peer support network (Kaitiaki). Fair and market competitive pay with the flexibility to tailor through additional leave and increased employer KiwiSaver contributions. Life insurance and preventative health initiatives (including annual flu immunisations and Mole Maps). Discounted group medical cover and health and fitness programmes (including Fitness Passport). Discounted fuel rates plus a range of retail discounts (including Boost, PB Tech and Specsavers). Ongoing learning and development, with clear career pathways to help you grow, specialise, or progress. A welcoming, family‑friendly workplace where people are encouraged to be themselves and feel valued. #J-18808-Ljbffr