Pano AIPano AI

Drone Pilot-Contractor

Added 14 hours ago

Help us tackle the growing wildfire crisis with the latest advancements in AI and IoT

Who we are

The problem: Every minute matters in fire response. As climate change amplifies the intensity of wildfires—with longer fire seasons, dryer fuels, and faster winds—new ignitions spread faster and put more communities at risk. Today, most wildfires are detected by bystanders and reported via 911, meaning it can take hours to detect a fire, verify its exact location and size, and dispatch first responders. Fire authorities need a faster way to detect, confirm, and pinpoint fires so that they can quickly respond—preventing small flare-ups from becoming devastating infernos.

About Pano: We are a 175+ person growth-stage hybrid-remote start-up, headquartered in San Francisco. We are the leader in early wildfire detection and intelligence, helping fire professionals respond to fires faster and more safely—with the right equipment, timely information, and enhanced coordination—so that they can stop a new ignition before it grows. Pano AI combines advanced hardware, software, and artificial intelligence into an easy-to-use, web-based platform. Leveraging a network of ultra-high-definition, 360-degree cameras atop high vantage points, as well as satellite and other data feeds, Pano AI produces a real-time picture of threats in a geographic region and delivers immediate, actionable intelligence.

Pano AI has been recognized by Fast Company as one of the Top 10 Most Innovative AI Companies in 2023, and as one of the Top 50 Most Innovative Companies of 2026ranking #1 in the Sustainability category. The company was also named to TIME’s list of the 100 Most Influential Companies of 2025 and identified by MIT Technology Review as one of the top 15 climate tech companies to watch in 2024. Pano AI has been featured in leading publications, including The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and CNBC.

The company serves dozens of government and enterprise customers across 16 U.S. states, five Australian states, and British Columbia, Canada, and currently monitors more than 50 million acres of land worldwide. It has raised $89 million in venture capital from investors including Giant Ventures, Liberty Mutual Ventures, Tokio Marine Future Fund, Congruent Ventures, Initialized Capital, Salesforce Ventures, and T-Mobile Ventures. Learn more at https://www.pano.ai/.

The Role

We are seeking a skilled Drone Pilot contractor to conduct site audits and field data collection across project locations to assess the viability of various cell tower sites for wildfire camera deployment. This role will provide services that include travel to the site, conducting the audit, and producing deliverables that include: capture aerial imagery, and document site conditions and measurements that support project planning and operations.

What you’ll do

  • Travel regularly to project sites (approximately two weeks out of every three)

  • Conduct site audits to assess viability of site for a Pano station

  • Operate drones to capture aerial imagery, mapping data, and site documentation

  • Perform ground-based measurements, take photographs, and log field notes

  • Ensure data is collected accurately and uploaded

  • Assist with planning and logistics for site visits

  • Coordinate with internal teams to ensure audit objectives are met

  • Maintain and transport field equipment including drones and related gear

What you’ll bring

  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or ability to obtain within 30 days)

  • The following required insurance coverage: Aircraft Liability, including bodily injury and property damage coverage, in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence AND automobile insurance coverage at Provider’s expense with the following minimum limits: $100,000 for bodily injury, $300,000 for property damage, and $100,000 for medical payments.Ability and willingness to travel extensively (65-75%) within North America

  • Strong attention to detail in data collection and reporting

  • Valid driver’s license and comfort traveling to remote locations

  • Ability to work in the field, including going up and down stairs and ladders

  • Ability to work independently while traveling, and be organized and reliable in field environments

  • Strong observational and documentation skills

  • Strong communication skills

  • Demonstrated experience flying drones for commercial, inspection, mapping, or surveying work preferred

  • Background in construction, utilities, infrastructure, telecom, or energy projects a plus

  • Basic mechanical or electrical troubleshooting skills a plus

Final compensation for full-time employees is determined by a variety of factors, including job-related qualifications, education, experience, skills, knowledge, and geographic location. In addition to base salary, full-time roles are eligible for stock options. Our benefits package also includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a matching 401(k) plan, and flexible paid time off.