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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.
Job Responsibility
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
Requirements
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
Nice to have
General aviation experience such as a PPL, AROC, or other crewed aviation background
What we offer
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 including tool of trade vehicle, 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