Drone Operator
Posted 13 Aug 2026
BranchFactor Summary
The original posting with the fluff stripped out
- Expected experience
- 2+ yrs
- Management level
- Individual contributor
- Employment
- On-Site
- Contract
- Full-time
No salary listed for this role.
Study levelDiploma
Field of studyAviation, Engineering, Geospatial Technology, Surveying (or related)
Study levelAssociate degree
About Mariana Minerals
Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We’re reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
Position Summary
The Drone Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in support of mining operations. This role conducts and supervises continuous drone flight activities for surveying, inspection, monitoring, mapping, stockpile measurements, environmental compliance, security surveillance, and operational support. The Drone Operator ensures all drone missions are executed in accordance with applicable aviation regulations, company policies, and mine safety standards.
This position requires strong technical knowledge of drone systems, mining operations, aviation regulations, and emergency response procedures. Operators must maintain required certifications and be capable of working independently in a safety-sensitive environment.
Housing can be provided onsite.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Drone Operations
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Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections of drone systems and equipment.
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Operate and monitor drones in a 24/7 mining environment during day and night shifts.
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Execute automated and manual flight missions for mapping, surveying, inspections, and site monitoring.
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Monitor telemetry, battery status, weather conditions, and airspace restrictions to ensure safe operations.
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Maintain compliance with FAA, MSHA, and company safety and operational requirements.
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Collect aerial imagery, video, LiDAR, photogrammetry, and other operational data.
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Verify data quality, process mission outputs, and distribute information to stakeholders.
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Prepare reports and communicate operational findings to management and project teams.
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Coordinate drone activities with mine supervisors, engineering, dispatch, security, and safety personnel.
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Conduct mission risk assessments and maintain awareness of mining hazards, traffic, blasting schedules, and restricted areas.
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Respond to equipment malfunctions, flight deviations, and emergency situations.