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Advanced Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Talmadge Group

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Drone Pilot - GSDF 911th Support BN

Ellenwood, GA · On-site

$32K - $41K/yr

Gain experience with advanced drone sensors and imaging technologies * Work as part of a ... pilots are qualified through the Georgia State Defense Force and are required to become FAA Part ...

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Pilot

Brentwood, TN · On-site

Drone Pilot Location: Middle TN Travel: ~10 percent Compensation: Based on experience Hiring ... This includes advanced flight operations, emergency‑readiness support, regulatory compliance, and ...

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Pilot

Brentwood, TN · On-site

Drone Pilot Location: Middle TN Worksite: In office Travel: ~10 percent Compensation: Based on ... This includes advanced flight operations, emergency‑readiness support, regulatory compliance, and ...

Exyte GmbH

Discover your exciting role The Drone Pilot/Reality Capture Specialist will leverage advanced drone technology and reality capture techniques to collect, process, and deliver precise aerial imagery ...

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Pilot - 3rd Shift

Nashville, TN · On-site

FocusPoint (confidential client) About the Role A leading industrial organization is seeking a skilled Drone Pilot to support advanced UAS operations across multiple facilities. This is a hands‑on ...

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Pilot - Rotating Shifts

Nashville, TN · On-site

FocusPoint (confidential client) About the Role A leading industrial organization is seeking a skilled Drone Pilot to support advanced UAS operations across multiple facilities. This is a hands‑on ...

Allen Control Systems

Advanced Drone Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

... drone operator who is experienced in building, configuring, and flying advanced UAV systems. This ... You will serve as an additional Part 107 certified pilot to meet our growing testing and mission ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA

$103K - $179K/yr

LMI is seeking a Drone Pilot /Autonomy Test Operator to support a Department of War mission partner ... Conduct advanced FPV and Group 1-2 UAS flight operations in dynamic and contested environments

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA · On-site

$103K - $179K/yr

Overview LMI is seeking a Drone Pilot /Autonomy Test Operator to support a Department of War ... Conduct advanced FPV and Group 1-2 UAS flight operations in dynamic and contested environments

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA

$103K - $179K/yr

Overview LMI is seeking a Drone Pilot /Autonomy Test Operator to support a Department of War ... Conduct advanced FPV and Group 1-2 UAS flight operations in dynamic and contested environments

Acuren

UAS Drone Pilot III

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Pilot advanced UAS platforms and payloads, possibly beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) or using special waivers, under company/regulatory policy; optimize sensor suite for electrical infrastructure ...

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Advanced Drone Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do advanced drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for advanced drone 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 an advanced drone pilot?

Advanced Drone Pilots are professionals trained to operate drones in complex environments and for specialized tasks such as aerial surveying, cinematography, infrastructure inspection, and emergency response. They often possess advanced certifications and are knowledgeable about airspace regulations, safety protocols, and the technical aspects of various drone systems. Their expertise allows them to fly drones beyond basic recreational use, often for commercial, industrial, or governmental purposes. Advanced Drone Pilots may also be responsible for mission planning, data analysis, and maintaining drone equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an advanced drone pilot?

To thrive as an Advanced Drone Pilot, you need a strong understanding of aeronautics, flight planning, and safety regulations, typically supported by a remote pilot certificate (such as FAA Part 107) and relevant field experience. Proficiency with advanced drone platforms, flight control software, mapping tools, and data analysis systems is essential. Excellent situational awareness, problem-solving, and clear communication skills set top professionals apart in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operations and high-quality deliverables in industries like surveying, agriculture, and cinematography.

What are some common challenges advanced drone pilots face when working on large-scale commercial projects?

Advanced Drone Pilots often encounter challenges such as navigating complex airspace regulations, coordinating with multiple stakeholders on-site, and adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions. Working on large-scale projects typically requires precise mission planning, close collaboration with data analysts and project managers, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Pilots must also be prepared to troubleshoot technical issues with drone hardware and software in real-time to keep projects on schedule.

What is the difference between Advanced Drone Pilot vs Commercial Drone Operator?

AspectAdvanced Drone PilotCommercial Drone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Certification, advanced trainingFAA Part 107 Certification, basic to intermediate training
Work EnvironmentComplex projects, specialized equipmentVaried commercial settings, general drone tasks
Industry UsageFilmmaking, surveying, inspectionReal estate, agriculture, media

Advanced Drone Pilots typically hold more specialized certifications and work on complex projects requiring higher skill levels. Commercial Drone Operators perform a broader range of routine tasks across various industries. While both roles require FAA Part 107 certification, the Advanced Drone Pilot often engages in more technical and demanding operations.

What states have the most Advanced Drone Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Advanced Drone Pilot jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Advanced Drone Pilot jobs?

For Advanced Drone Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Drone Pilot - GSDF 911th Support BN

Ellenwood, GA • On-site

The Talmadge Group
1 - 10 employees
Learn more about The Talmadge Groupexternal

$32K - $41K/yr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

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After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Key responsibilities

  • Operate small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) during training and operational missions.

  • Provide real-time aerial reconnaissance and situational awareness to support GSDF commanders and operational elements.

  • Support emergency response, disaster operations, training exercises, and other authorized GSDF missions.

Job description

Drone Pilot – 911th Support Battalion

Volunteer Military Service | Georgia

Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF)

Volunteer & Turn Your Drone Skills Into Service


The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) is seeking qualified individuals interested in serving as Drone Pilots with the 911th Support Battalion’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) unit.


This is a volunteer military service position offering qualified candidates the opportunity to develop and enhance their drone piloting skills through additional training and real-world practical application while serving the citizens of Georgia.


About the 911th UAS

The 911th UAS is the Georgia State Defense Force’s specialized small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) unit. The unit provides real-time aerial reconnaissance, situational awareness, and information products in support of GSDF commanders and operational elements.


911th UAS pilots operate both battery-powered and tethered drone systems equipped with advanced technologies, including:

  • Visual imaging
  • Thermal imaging
  • Infrared (IR) capabilities
  • LiDAR technology
  • Real-time aerial reconnaissance and observation systems


What You’ll Do

As a Volunteer GSDF Drone Pilot, you may have opportunities to:

  • Operate sUAS platforms during training and operational missions
  • Provide real-time aerial reconnaissance and situational awareness
  • Support emergency response, disaster operations, training exercises, and other authorized GSDF missions
  • Develop flight planning, mission execution, and aerial observation skills
  • Gain experience with advanced drone sensors and imaging technologies
  • Work as part of a disciplined UAS team supporting commanders in the field
  • Participate in additional GSDF UAS training and professional development


Qualifications

All 911th UAS pilots are qualified through the Georgia State Defense Force and are required to become FAA Part 107 Remote Pilots.

Candidates should have an interest in aviation, drone operations, technology, emergency response, or public service. Previous drone experience is valuable, but candidates interested in developing their skills are encouraged to explore Volunteer Opportunities with the GSDF, their eligibility and training requirements.


Why Serve with the GSDF?

This is more than an opportunity to fly drones. It is an opportunity to apply your skills to a mission that matters.

Qualified members can gain additional training and practical experience while working with sophisticated UAS technology and supporting real-world missions throughout Georgia.


Important: This is a volunteer position with the Georgia State Defense Force and is not traditional paid employment. Membership and assignment are subject to GSDF eligibility, training, and organizational requirements.


Ready to Learn More?

Visit the Georgia State Defense Force website to determine whether you qualify for this position and explore other opportunities to serve:

https://gsdf.georgia.gov/


Serve Georgia. Develop your skills. Put your experience to work on a mission that matters.


For ZipRecruiter, I would make “Volunteer Military Service” very prominent in both the title and opening paragraph. That reduces the likelihood of applicants assuming this is a conventional salaried drone-pilot job while still positioning the training and real-world UAS experience as a significant benefit.

Note: Funding to support this Volunteer Recruitment advertising for this volunteer position was donated by The Talmadge Group, Inc.