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Aerial Lidar Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sanborn Map

Geospatial Technician

Colorado Springs, CO

$17 - $22/hr

... operating mapping and geospatial information technology companies in the US. Our work is highly ... aerial photographs, survey data, and compilation data. Process and analyze lidar point clouds for ...

Kiewit Corporation

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX

... aerial surveying, and/or LiDAR data collection * FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required ... Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work ...

CenterPoint Energy

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience operating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in compliance with ... Experience with thermal imaging, LiDAR, or multispectral sensors. * Knowledge of utility ...

Fugro

Sr. Production Analyst - Land

Rapid City, SD · On-site

... aerial imagery and LiDAR data. This role is also tasked with providing training and technical support, writing or updating standard operating procedures, and performing independent quality reviews.

Fugro

Sr. Production Analyst - Land

Rapid City, SD

... aerial imagery and LiDAR data. This role is also tasked with providing training and technical support, writing or updating standard operating procedures, and performing independent quality reviews.

Fugro

Sr. Production Analyst - Land

Rapid City, SD · On-site

... aerial imagery and LiDAR data. This role is also tasked with providing training and technical support, writing or updating standard operating procedures, and performing independent quality reviews.

Hirani Group

Instrument Person

Hicksville, NY · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

... operating UAVs for aerial mapping Hands-on experience with Leica LiDAR scanners for high-accuracy 3D data collection Familiarity with managing or working on multiple survey projects simultaneously ...

Kiewit

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX · On-site

... aerial surveying, and/or LiDAR data collection * FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required ... Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work ...

Heli Preflight

B407 A&P Mechanic - Minnesota

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$28.25 - $37/hr

We pride ourselves on safety and are one of less than fifty 135 operators in the nation that ... aerial lift, LiDar and mapping, and various unscheduled air... Supported Manufacturers: Bell #J ...

Heli Preflight

$21.25 - $27.75/hr

We pride ourselves on safety and are one of less than fifty 135 operators in the nation that ... aerial lift, LiDar and mapping, and various unscheduled air... Supported Manufacturers: Bell #J ...

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Aerial Lidar Operator information

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How much do aerial lidar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial lidar operator in the United States is $21.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an aerial lidar operator do?

An Aerial Lidar Operator is responsible for operating Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) equipment mounted on aircraft to collect precise topographic data. They manage the setup, calibration, and operation of the LiDAR system during flight missions, ensuring accurate data acquisition over designated areas. After flights, they often assist with initial data processing and troubleshooting any technical issues. The data collected is used in mapping, surveying, forestry, and other geospatial applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerial lidar operator?

To thrive as an Aerial Lidar Operator, you need expertise in geospatial data collection, remote sensing, and a background in geography, surveying, or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications. Familiarity with Lidar sensors, GPS systems, GIS software, and data processing tools like TerraScan or LAStools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators manage field operations and collaborate with project teams. These competencies ensure accurate data acquisition and efficient project delivery in mapping and surveying applications.

What are the typical challenges an aerial lidar operator faces during data collection missions?

Aerial Lidar Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, complex terrain, and strict airspace regulations, all of which can impact flight planning and data quality. Ensuring equipment calibration and troubleshooting technical issues on-site is also common. Effective communication and coordination with pilots and survey teams are crucial for mission success. Flexibility and adaptability are key, as changing project requirements or environmental factors may require rapid adjustments to flight plans.

What is the difference between Aerial Lidar Operator vs Aerial Survey Technician?

AspectAerial Lidar OperatorAerial Survey Technician
CredentialsGIS certifications, drone pilot licenses, lidar-specific trainingSurveying certifications, GIS knowledge, drone operation experience
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, remote, often in rugged terrainsOutdoor, on-site, often in construction or land development sites
Industry UsageMapping, forestry, infrastructure planningLand surveying, construction, environmental assessment

Both roles involve outdoor data collection using drones or aircraft, but Aerial Lidar Operators specialize in operating lidar sensors for high-precision 3D mapping, while Aerial Survey Technicians focus on collecting various survey data, including imagery and GPS points. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the aerial data collection industry.

What are popular job titles related to Aerial Lidar Operator jobs?

For Aerial Lidar Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aerial Lidar Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,418 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Construction Drone Pilot / UAV Pilot / UAS Technician

Richmond, VA • On-site

Allan Myers, Inc
Construction • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Allan Myers, Incexternal

$70K - $85K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Allan Myers rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Responsibilities
The Construction Drone Pilot / UAV Pilot / UAS Technician is responsible for operating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to support surveying, construction operations, progress tracking, safety inspections, volumetric analysis, and digital project delivery. This role utilizes drone technology, GNSS equipment, photogrammetry software, and BIM integration to provide accurate and actionable data for construction projects.
Principal Duties & Responsibilities:
Surveying & Data Collection
  • Perform aerial surveying and mapping operations using unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
  • Establish and verify Ground Control Points (GCPs) using GNSS/GPS receivers to ensure accurate survey-grade deliverables.
  • Capture high-resolution imagery and LiDAR data for topographic mapping, site analysis, and quantity calculations.
  • Generate orthomosaics, digital surface models (DSMs), digital terrain models (DTMs), and 3D models for project planning and execution.

Construction Progress Monitoring
  • Conduct weekly or bi-weekly drone flights to document project progress.
  • Provide aerial data and reporting to project managers to monitor schedules, productivity, and site conditions.
  • Identify and document deviations between planned and actual construction progress.

Safety & Inspection Services
  • Perform visual and thermal inspections of roofs, structures, facades, and construction sites.
  • Improve safety by reducing the need for personnel to access elevated or hazardous locations.
  • Support safety teams with aerial site assessments and documentation.

Quantities & Volumetric Analysis
  • Perform stockpile measurements and volumetric calculations using drone-generated point clouds and photogrammetry.
  • Provide accurate material quantity reports for earthwork, aggregates, and construction materials.

Environmental & Regulatory Compliance
  • Capture and maintain aerial documentation for environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance reporting.
  • Support permitting requirements and project recordkeeping with aerial imagery and data.

Marketing & Project Documentation
  • Produce high-quality aerial photographs and video content for client presentations, proposals, project updates, and marketing materials.
  • Maintain an organized archive of drone imagery and project documentation.

Data Processing & Analysis
  • Process drone data using industry-standard software platforms, including:
    • Pix4D
    • DroneDeploy
    • Agisoft Metashape
    • Propeller
  • Generate accurate deliverables and reports from aerial datasets.
  • Integrate drone outputs with survey, GIS, CAD, and BIM platforms.

Salary Range: $70,000 - $85,000, based on experience.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • FAA Part 107 required before start date
  • Two or more years of professional drone flight experience.
  • Knowledge on completing a Part 107 Waiver from the FAA
  • Preference for LiDAR experience
  • Knowledge of Civil 3D and Trimble Business Center
  • Ability to travel between job sites
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in construction, surveying, civil engineering, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience operating UAVs/UAS in a professional environment.
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and site conditions.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to walk 3-5 miles per day over rough and uneven terrain.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with GNSS/GPS surveying equipment.
  • Knowledge of photogrammetry, LiDAR mapping, and reality capture workflows.
  • Experience with BIM, digital twin, GIS, AutoCAD Civil 3D, or related construction technology platforms.
  • Strong computer and data management skills.
  • Completion of coursework or certifications related to photogrammetry, LiDAR, surveying, mapping, or construction-focused UAV applications.

Overview
Our Company Does Work That Matters
Allan Myers is a leading self-performing heavy civil construction and construction materials company with a strategic network of offices, quarries and asphalt plants covering the Mid-Atlantic from New Jersey to Virginia Beach. We build infrastructure: the highways and bridges that connect cities and towns, the public water and wastewater systems that provide clean water to your home and keep our streams clean. We take pride in meeting the highest quality standards because it ensures our work will have a long-lasting positive impact on the community. When you get home safe each night, you know that what you did that day matters.
At Allan Myers, you are part of a team dedicated to making things better, including your career. We pay well and provide generous benefits. We offer extensive training and promote from within. If you have the drive, we will help you build a career in the thriving construction industry and reach your full potential.
Allan Myers is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Notice to External, Third Party, Agency Recruiting Firms:
Allan Myers maintains a preferred vendor list and does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies not under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization from our Talent Acquisition team will be deemed the property of Allan Myers. We reserve the right to engage with such candidates (contact, interview and hire) without financial obligation. No other employee is authorized to approve resume submissions or bind Allan Myers to any fee arrangement.

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