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Manufacturing & Offsite Production

Drone Operator and Inspector

Image
Worker using a tablet to pilot a drone over a construction site, with cranes and a multi-storey building in the background.

Role overview

Job Title

Drone Operator and Inspector

Purpose Of The Role

The drone operator and inspector safely operates drones to capture aerial data and inspect construction sites, helping teams to build better, faster, and more efficiently.

Role In MMC

Drone operators and inspectors play a key role in MMC by providing real-time aerial insights, accurate site mapping, and digital records that support off-site planning, precision installation, and ongoing monitoring. Their work contributes to reduced errors, increased safety, and improved productivity across construction projects.

Knowledge & Skills

Modern Methods of Construction is continuously expanding; with many transferable skillsets.

Fundamental Skills

Basic essential skills

  • Technical Skills
  • Safety & Compliance
  • Inspection & Testing

Additional MMC Skills

Specialised MMC skills

  • Digital & Technology
  • Data Analysis & Reporting
  • Supply Chain & Logistics

Universal Skills

Transferable or soft skills

  • Communication & Collaboration
  • Problem-Solving
  • Adaptability & Resilience

Suggested Entry Routes

Experience

  • Prior experience in photography, surveying, or construction inspection
  • Work on construction sites in a support or safety role
  • Volunteering with drone mapping or environmental survey projects

Education

  • Leaving Certificate with strong results in maths, geography, or technical graphics
  • Level 5 or 6 Certificate in Construction Technology, Engineering, or Digital Surveying
  • Degree in Geomatics, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or similar

Training & Certifications

  • Drone Pilot Competency Certificate (from Irish Aviation Authority – Specific or Open Category)
  • Construction Safety Certification (e.g. Safe Pass)
  • BIM and photogrammetry short courses (e.g. through Skillnet, Technological Universities, or private providers)
  • Remote Sensing or GIS training (optional but valuable)

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