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A Uav Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Platform Aerospace

UAV PILOT/INSTRUCTOR

Blackstone, VA · On-site

The UAV Pilot/Instructor plays a key role in mission success and program development through technical expertise and operational excellence. Duties and Responsibilities * Perform flight operation ...

Platform Aerospace

UAV PILOT/INSTRUCTOR

Blackstone, VA · On-site

$107K - $140K/yr

The UAV Pilot/Instructor plays a key role in mission success and program development through technical expertise and operational excellence. Duties and Responsibilities * Perform flight operation ...

Platform Aerospace

NY · On-site

$100 - $125/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 ...

Platform Aerospace

UAV PILOT II-III

Blackstone, VA · 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 ...

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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 Sep 8, 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.

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 work.

How do I become a UAV pilot?

To become a UAV pilot, you typically need to obtain a remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by passing an aeronautical knowledge test. You should also be at least 16 years old, pass a background check, and follow regulations related to drone operation, including maintaining visual line of sight and flying within designated airspace. Gaining experience with drone controls and safety procedures is also important.
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A Uav Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various A Uav Pilot job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% 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

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description
Job Description

JOB TITLE: UAV Pilot/Instructor III
DEPARTMENT: Flight Operations
REPORTS TO: Flight Operations Training Manager
CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

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 platforms. This role oversees ground and flight operations during stateside training and overseas missions while providing technical support. The UAV Pilot/Instructor plays a key role in mission success and program development through technical expertise and operational excellence.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform flight operation planning in support of customer-driven requirements.
  • Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight safety checks.
  • Remotely pilot UAS aircraft, following established flight plans or modifying them to meet mission objectives.
  • Deliver training programs to new UAV pilots, ensuring adherence to operational procedures and safety standards.
  • Support flight operations outside the continental United States for up to four (4) months at a time, as required.
  • Conduct customer flight demonstrations at remote locations.
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues to maximize mission readiness.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable FAA regulations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Basic Requirements - Level I
  • High school diploma or GED and 2-5 years of manned or UAS flight experience, or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 4 years.
  • 1 year of flight instruction or customer-facing technical training experience.
  • Must currently possess and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret security clearance.
  • Ability to obtain an FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 100% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required.
  • Comfortable operating UAS platforms in various weather and lighting conditions.
Basic Requirements - Level II
  • High school diploma or GED and 5-7 years of manned or UAS flight experience, or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 years.
  • 2+ years of flight instruction or customer-facing technical training experience.
  • Must currently possess and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret security clearance.
  • Ability to obtain an FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 100% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required.
  • Comfortable operating UAS platforms in various weather and lighting conditions.
Basic Requirements - Level III
  • High school diploma or GED and 7+ years of manned or UAS flight experience, or a combination of education and experience equivalent to 10 years.
  • 5+ years of flight instruction or customer-facing technical training experience.
  • Minimum of 500 flight hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
  • Must currently possess and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance.
  • Ability to obtain an FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 100% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required.
  • Comfortable operating UAS platforms in various weather and lighting conditions.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Completion of training or a degree in Aviation, Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience supporting deployed UAS ISR operations.
  • Experience with Vigilant Spirit.
  • Experience with Quattro FMS.
  • Research and development experience.
  • Technical publication writing experience.
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Private Pilot License (PPL).
Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, including distinguishing wire and cable colors; moving, lifting, and carrying equipment such as ladders, tools, air tanks, test equipment, and other objects weighing up to 100 pounds; working at heights; and climbing ladders.
  • Must be able to obtain a DOT physical.

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