UAS Image Inspector

Job Description

Manifest Solutions is currently seeking a UAS Image Inspector for a position in Gahanna, OH.

Review high-resolution drone imagery and video of transmission and distribution infrastructure.

Analyze visual and thermal/infrared imagery to identify potential equipment abnormalities and reliability concerns.

Inspect imagery of:

Distribution poles

Transmission structures

Crossarms

Conductors

Insulators

Transformers

Switches

Connectors

Protection equipment

Overhead lines

Other transmission and distribution assets

Identify and document conditions including:

Equipment damage

Deterioration and corrosion

Cracked or damaged insulators

Pole and crossarm defects

Conductor abnormalities

Loose or damaged hardware

Vegetation encroachment

Thermal anomalies/hot spots

Burn marks or evidence of overheating

Equipment displacement

Other conditions that could contribute to equipment failure or service interruption

Review thermal imagery to identify abnormal temperature patterns associated with electrical connections and equipment.

Compare imagery against established inspection criteria and asset-condition standards.

Record inspection findings within applicable asset management, GIS or inspection-management systems.

Associate identified defects with the appropriate utility asset and location.

Assign or document the appropriate condition/severity classification for identified issues.

Prepare inspection reports and supporting documentation for engineering and maintenance personnel.

Escalate critical or potentially hazardous conditions for immediate review.

Review historical imagery when available to identify changes in asset condition over time.

Work with engineering and field personnel to clarify inspection findings and determine appropriate follow-up.

Maintain accurate inspection records and ensure data quality and completeness.

Assist with quality control of automated/computer-vision inspection results.

Review AI-generated defect detections and validate whether identified conditions represent actual equipment issues.

Support the continued development of drone-based inspection and asset reliability programs.

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience performing inspections, quality control, technical analysis, asset assessment or similar work.

Strong visual observation and attention to detail.

Ability to analyze large volumes of photographic or visual information.

Strong computer skills and ability to learn specialized inspection software.

Ability to accurately document technical findings.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with electric utility transmission or distribution infrastructure.

Experience reviewing aerial imagery, drone imagery, satellite imagery or technical photography.

Experience with thermal/infrared imagery.

Experience with GIS/GPS systems.

Experience with utility asset management systems.

Knowledge of electrical distribution or transmission equipment.

Experience with infrastructure inspection programs.

Experience with quality assurance/quality control.

Experience working with AI/computer-vision inspection systems.

Familiarity with Skydio, InFlightAI or similar aerial inspection platforms.

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in one of the following preferred:

Electrical Engineering Technology

Engineering

GIS/Geospatial Technology

Environmental Science

Aviation/UAS

Engineering Technology

Asset Management

Other related technical discipline

Full-time