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A Uav Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Platform Aerospace

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Blackstone, VA · On-site

$30 - $70/hr

Remote pilot a UAS, following a specific flight plan or modifying flight plans to meet mission objectives * Deliver training programs to new UAV pilots, ensuring adherence to operational protocols ...

Platform Aerospace

UAV PILOT II-III

Hollywood, MD · On-site

JOB TITLE: UAV PILOT II-III DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS REPORTS TO: DEPLOYMENT SITE LEAD ... SECRET This position may be filled as a full-time employee or 1099 Contractor depending on business ...

Platform Aerospace

NY · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process. UAV PILOT II-III Contractor - 1099 ...

Survice

UAV Test Pilots

Churchville, MD · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

Join Us in Making a Difference in the Lives of Those Defending Our Nation! Why SURVICE? Come join ... UAV test pilot with acillary duties related to UAV system and subsystem assembly, troubleshooting ...

Intertek

UAV (Drone) Field Specialist

Houston, TX

The UAV Field Specialist is a certified FAA Part 107 pilot responsible for executing all aspects of UAV missions including flying, GPS ground control point capture, and other field tasks as needed.

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A Uav Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do a uav pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for a uav pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between A Uav Pilot vs A Drone Operator?

AspectA Uav PilotA Drone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 certification, remote pilot licenseOften FAA Part 107 certification, but may vary by employer
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on-site, and sometimes in controlled airspaceIndoor or outdoor, often for filming, inspections, or events
Industry UsageCommercial, military, research, and surveillanceMedia production, real estate, inspections, and entertainment

Both roles involve operating drones, but a Uav Pilot typically holds specific certifications and may work in more regulated environments like surveillance or military operations. A Drone Operator often focuses on media, filming, or inspection tasks, with similar certification requirements but different work settings.

Are drone pilots in demand?

Drone pilots, including UAV pilots, are in increasing demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, film, and inspection services. Employers seek certified pilots skilled in operating drones and understanding regulations, with job growth driven by expanding commercial applications and technological advancements.

Can I get a job as a Uav Pilot?

Yes, UAV pilots can find employment in industries such as aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, and inspection services. Requirements typically include a remote pilot certificate from the FAA, relevant technical skills, and sometimes a background in aviation or technology. Job availability depends on industry demand and regional regulations.

Do UAV pilots make a lot of money?

UAV pilots, also known as drone pilots, can earn varying salaries depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically pay around $50,000 annually, while experienced commercial drone pilots can earn over $100,000 with specialized skills and certifications. Salary potential increases with expertise in areas like aerial photography, surveying, or inspection services.
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Cities with the most A Uav Pilot job openings:

What states have the most A Uav Pilot jobs?

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A Uav Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various A Uav Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Platform Aerospace

Blackstone, VA • On-site

$30 - $70/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: UAV PILOT/INSTRUCTOR I-III

DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS

REPORTS TO: FLIGHT OPERATIONS TRAINING MANAGER

CLASSIFICATION: NON-EXEMPT
CLEARANCE: SECRET

LOCATION: BLACKSTONE, VA


This position may be filled at different levels depending on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience.


JOB SUMMARY:

The UAV Pilot/instructor will support the operation and training of Vanilla UAS. This role will oversee ground and flight operations during stateside training and overseas missions while providing technical support. The Senior UAV Pilot /Instructor will play a key role in mission success and program development through technical expertise and operational excellence.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Perform flight operation planning in support of customer-driven requirements
  • Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight safety checks
  • Remote pilot a UAS, following a specific flight plan or modifying flight plans to meet mission objectives
  • Deliver training programs to new UAV pilots, ensuring adherence to operational protocols and safety standards.
  • Support flight operations outside the continental United States for up to four (4) months at a time if needed
  • Conduct flight demonstrations for customers at remote locations
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues to maximize mission readiness
  • Ensure compliance with all FAA regulations as applicable

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL I:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 2-5 years of manned/UAS flight experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 years.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required)
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL II:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 5-7 years of manned/UAS flight experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 years.
  • 2+ Year of flight Instruction or customer facing technical training experience.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance.
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL III:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 7-10 years of relevant experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to 10 years.
  • 5+ Year of flight Instruction or customer facing technical training experience.
  • Minimum of 500 hours of flight experience as a Pilot in Command.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance.
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.


PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must have ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret level security clearance.

  • Completion of training or a degree in aviation, engineering, or a related field preferred
  • Experience in deployed UAS ISR operations 
  • Vigilant Spirit experience  
  • Quattro FMS experience  
  • Research and development experience  
  • Publication writing experience  
  • Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA  
  • Private Pilot License  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to obtain a DOT physical.
  • Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, including:
    • Prolonged standing, walking, bending, and kneeling
    • Perceiving differences in wire and indicator light colors
    • Operating hand and power tools
    • Lifting, carrying, and/or moving tools, equipment, and components weighing up to 50 pounds
    • Working in confined spaces and around aircraft
    • Ascending and descending ladders or stairs as required


The hourly range for this position is $30.00 to $70.00. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s relevant experience, education and training, job-related knowledge and skills, the scope and level of responsibility of the position, internal equity, and market/business considerations. The listed range is a general guideline and may vary based on the selected candidate’s qualifications and work location, where applicable.