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Drone Repair Technicians

The Job

Drone repair technicians repair and maintain the parts and systems of unmanned aerial vehicles. They fix and replace parts such as the outer shells and legs of drones. They also repair motors, which can frequently overheat and break in drones. Technicians have knowledge of ground control systems, the communication systems between drones and wireless devices, and also understand how computer networks function within the unmanned aerial systems.

Unmanned aircraft systems repairers employed by the U.S. Army, for example, are tasked with keeping aircraft functioning correctly and having them ready to fly at any moment's notice, for the collection and transmission of information. Daily job duties include repairing the drones' electrical, avionics, propulsion, and fuel systems, and maintaining optical payloads, weapons systems, electrical systems, radio frequency systems, and takeoff and landing systems. UAS repairers employed by the army are skilled in electrical theory and system maintenance, math and shop mechanics, and are adept at working with electrics and electronic equipment.

Repair technicians in the civilian sector handle customers' inquiries about drone repairs. They assess the damage to the drones and discuss with clients what repairs will be needed and the costs involved. They create repair work order forms and keep customers informed of the status of the repair work by telephone and e-mail. They work closely with other drone technicians and specialists to collaborate on jobs, when needed. They also keep track of the time they spend on each job and record the specific materials, parts, and steps taken to complete the work. Technicians follow industry and company standards in the types of materials and methods used to repair and maintain drones. When their work is completed, they review with clients what was repaired and make recommendations for products and services that customers may consider using to keep their drones functioning well in the future.