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 150+ 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 is on TIME's list of the 100 Most Influential Companies of 2025! MIT Technology Review listed Pano as one of the top 15 climate tech companies to watch in 2024, and Fast Company named Pano AI one of the Top 10 most innovative companies in AI of 2023. We’ve also been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and CNBC News. Pano AI’s dozens of government and enterprise customers span 16 states in the U.S., five states in Australia, and BC, Canada, and we are currently monitoring over 30 million acres of land. Pano AI has raised $89M in venture capital funding from 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/.
We are seeking a skilled and motivated Field Technician / Drone Pilot to support site audits and field data collection across our project locations. In this role, you will travel regularly to capture aerial imagery, and document site conditions and measurements that support project planning and operations. Over time, you will develop a deeper understanding of our systems and contribute to site installations and ongoing maintenance activities, providing opportunities to grow your technical skillset beyond site audits and drone operations.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys travel, working outdoors, learning new technical skills, and contributing to a growing operations team.
Site Audits & Data Collection (primary responsibility)
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 in accordance with internal standards.
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
Ensure compliance with safety protocols and company policies
Installation & Maintenance Support (Growth Area)
As familiarity with Pano technology develops, you will start doing the following:
Work with contractors, including construction crews and electricians
Supervise installations of wildfire early warning camera systems, ensuring that all work is conducted in accordance with provided designs and specifications
Verify camera system performance, alignment and connectivity
Assist with calibration and testing of installed equipment
Perform routine inspection and maintenance tasks at operational sites
Perform basic system maintenance and repair, providing troubleshooting and problem resolution both remotely and on-site
Associate’s degree in Engineering or a related field or equivalent experience.
Minimum of 2 years of experience in a field service role.
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or ability to obtain within 30 days)
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
Adaptable and eager to learn new technical systems
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.