Drone Pilot Asset Inspector

About the role:
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, AirShare, 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:
We're looking for a motivated RPAS pilot who thrives in the field, values safety above all else, and is eager to grow into advanced operations.

To succeed in this role, you'll bring:

• 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's in it for you?
This is a unique opportunity to pioneer new ways of working and take ownership of a role with huge growth potential.

• Competitive remuneration
• An in-house wellbeing programme, peer support network (Kaitiaki), and EAP services.
• Life insurance and access to discounted medical insurance.
• Ongoing professional development and tailored leadership training.
• A supportive, friendly workplace where people are valued and appreciated.
• A social club, family events, and team activities.
• Discounts on gym memberships and a range of retail partners.

About Us
Northpower is an electricity and fibre network provider for Whangārei and Kaipara, with more than 60,000 connected customers.

Northpower is one of the largest multi-utility contractors in New Zealand, servicing the needs of clients in transmission, distribution, generation, fibre, renewables, and commercial sectors. We have a reputation for excellence and innovation, providing commercially viable solutions for electrical and telecommunication design, construction, and maintenance requirements.

We have over 1,400 staff working together across 14 locations to keep the power on and the lights going for our customers

Apply Now:
If you're looking to take the next step in your career, feel inspired to join a value-based, culture of care and an employer who fosters an innovative environment where professional development is supported direct your profile into our career's website and search for #Req 1825.Suitable applicants will be interviewed whilst the advertisement is open. Send in your interest early

Pre-employment checks may include a criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing, and a medical assessment.