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Aerial Mapping Pilot Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... mapping, inspection, and videography. Key Responsibilities: * Operate drones for aerial photography ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... mapping, inspection, and videography. Key Responsibilities: * Operate drones for aerial photography ...

... pilots, Raad delivers persistent aerial coverage of U.S. critical infrastructure. Our network executes hundreds of missions each month, including thermal inspections of solar arrays, LiDAR mapping of ...

Aerial Mapping Pilot information

See Florida salary details

$8

$23

$54

How much do aerial mapping pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial mapping pilot in Florida is $23.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.66 and $24.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerial mapping pilot?

An Aerial Mapping Pilot operates aircraft equipped with specialized cameras and sensors to capture geographic data for mapping, surveying, and environmental analysis. They follow precise flight plans at specific altitudes and speeds to ensure accurate data collection. These pilots often work for government agencies, private surveying companies, or geospatial technology firms. Strong navigation skills, knowledge of FAA regulations, and experience with aerial survey equipment are essential for this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an aerial mapping pilot?

A typical day for an Aerial Mapping Pilot involves conducting pre-flight inspections, planning flight paths based on project requirements, and operating specialized equipment to capture high-quality aerial images or lidar data. You’ll work closely with ground teams, surveyors, and data analysts to ensure mission objectives and safety protocols are met. Additionally, you are responsible for maintaining accurate flight logs and equipment, troubleshooting minor technical issues, and adapting to changing weather or site conditions. This role provides a dynamic routine, with frequent travel and a mix of flying, technical operation, and collaborative planning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the aerial mapping pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerial Mapping Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong spatial awareness, and understanding of aerial photography or surveying techniques. Experience with GPS navigation systems, mapping software, and camera or sensor equipment is often required, along with certifications such as FAA Part 61 or 141. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for coordinating with ground crews and interpreting data requirements. These skills ensure safe flight operations, precise data capture, and successful project outcomes in a highly technical and collaborative field.

How do you become an aerial mapping pilot?

To become an aerial mapping pilot, individuals typically need a commercial drone pilot certification, such as the FAA Part 107 license in the United States, along with experience operating drones and knowledge of mapping software. Pilots often gain skills in aerial photography, GIS, and flight safety, and may need to meet specific age and health requirements depending on the region.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs in Florida?

For Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Aerial Mapping Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Aerial Mapping Pilot job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,745 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Aerial Sensor Operator

GREENMAN-PEDERSEN INC.

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

GPI Geospatial is seeking an Aerial Sensor Operator to conduct data acquisition of both high-resolution imagery and LiDAR from our aircraft, which is based at our office in Orlando, FL. This individual must be able to work independently and in a team setting. The ideal candidate is self-motivated with excellent problem-solving abilities as well as verbal and written communication skills. There is an opportunity for career development within the company. All relevant experience levels will be considered.

Do you value a company that puts employee satisfaction and diversity at the forefront of who they are? If so,GPI Geospatialwants you!

GPI Geospatialis a premier mapping firm for Transportation, Energy, Planning, Design, Construction, and Land Development throughout North America. Our vision is to be the most trusted provider of precision mapping, imagery, LiDAR, and land surveying services. We are part ofGPI, a multi-discipline engineering firm that has been providing planning, design, and construction services for transportation infrastructure and building system projects throughout the United States for over 50 years. Ranked in the Top 100 Firms by Engineering News-Record, GPI is a forward-thinking, innovative firm with a culture that is committed to excellence and fosters staff empowerment. For more information, visit: www.gpinet.com

Responsibilities:

  • Perform a pre/post-flight inspection of the sensors
  • Oversee and performs routine maintenance of aerial mapping systems
  • Safety-minded aircraft operation adhering to FAA and company safety guidelines
  • Timely completion of necessary fight logs and data transfer duties
  • Maintain mission and personal readiness always for deployment
  • Coordinates with pilot and Acquisition Managers for project assignments
  • Collaborate with other flight crews on mission efficiency and effective operations
  • Acquire airborne data using LiDAR and/or digital multi-spectral imagery from our aircraft
  • Understand and communicate the capabilities and limitations of the sensor and system
  • Coordinate with system operators, pilots, management, and other third parties as required to accomplish the collection missions
  • Ensure safe and secure use of company equipment and instrumentation
  • Coordinate with system manufacturers to troubleshoot field-related issues
  • Provided pilot with project information for imagery/LiDAR collection of specific targets and determined optimal sensor settings
  • Coordinates with data management on all projects regarding mission statistics
  • Provided guidance and information to pilots and otherwise assist with mission planning, field operations, and debriefing

Qualifications:

  • Must have at least an H.S. Diploma
  • No experience necessary, but prior aerial survey and/or flight operation experience very helpful
  • Computer system knowledge and networking is helpful
  • Willingness to travel up to 65%
  • Fly mapping missions up to 5.5 continuous hours. Multiple daily flights possible with an hour rest between
  • Work during early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and possibly holidays
  • Deployed for extended periods for larger missions
  • Non-pressurized flight operations, exposure to the cold and heat, elements of the seasons, and turbulence
  • Participation in significant physical lifting, pushing, and pulling activities related to aircraft loading and unloading