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Aerial Mapping Pilot Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

Pilot UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) for aerial surveys and process data to produce topographic maps, calculate quantities, and produce aerial photos. * Perform CAD applications such as volume ...

Pilot UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) for aerial surveys and process data to produce topographic maps, calculate quantities, and produce aerial photos. * Perform CAD applications such as volume ...

Aerial Mapping Pilot information

See Nevada salary details

$10

$31

$72

How much do aerial mapping pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial mapping pilot in Nevada is $31.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.11 and $32.79 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 Nevada?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Aerial Mapping Pilot job openings in Nevada as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,025 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

CURRENT EMPLOYEES - Please apply using "Jobs Hub" in Workday. This career site is for external applicants only.

Employee Type: RegularJOB SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for conducting ground and unmanned aerial surveys, processing and managing survey data, and providing AutoCAD drafting support for mining operations. The role installs, maintains, and troubleshoots machine control systems to ensure accurate positioning and operational efficiency. Working closely with engineering, geology, and operations teams, the incumbent provides surveying and technical support essential to mine planning, development, and production activities, while adhering to all safety and regulatory requirements.
Work Location: Thacker Pass Project in Orovada, NV.

Job Description:

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  • Perform job duties in accordance with MSHA law and regulations, established company safety procedures, and state and federal environmental regulations.
  • Collect field data using GPS and traditional surveying equipment.
  • Calculate volumes moved by equipment, including stockpile volumes, truck/shovel yards, pond capacities, etc.
  • Establish control and targets for aerial surveys.
  • Pilot UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) for aerial surveys and process data to produce topographic maps, calculate quantities, and produce aerial photos.
  • Perform CAD applications such as volume computations, haul/ramp designs, and 3-D modeling.
  • Manage data in spreadsheets as required.
  • Calculate monthly pit inventory and ore severed for royalty payments, as well as end-of-month reports and maps.
  • Construction staking of haul roads, ponds, boundaries, etc.

OTHER DUTIES:

  • Create GPS files for equipment in the operations department.
  • Draft using AutoCAD for mapping, permitting, mine plans, etc.
  • Install, maintain, and calibrate surveying and machine control equipment.
  • Provide various survey support to departments for special projects.
  • Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Ability to work independently or cooperatively with co-workers on projects while organizing day-to-day activities.
  • Knowledge of land surveying and engineering principles and practices.
  • Proficient in technology (AutoCAD, Carlson/Trimble, Microsoft 365).
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience with surveying at a surface mining operation.
  • Ability to work safely in all weather conditions.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • A Minimum of two years of post-secondary education in civil engineering technology, surveying, or a related discipline and/or appropriate surveying and computer experience.
  • Additional relevant surveying experience preferred.
  • An FAA Part 107 drone license is required or must be obtained within 60 days of hire.

ANALYSIS OF PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF POSITION:

  • Intermittently: None
  • Occasionally (0 - 1/3 of workday): lifting to 60 lbs. (lath, GPS equipment, briefcase); pushing and pulling 30 lbs. (supply drawers in survey vehicle); stooping, kneeling (pounding stakes, work over drafting table); crouching and crawling (pounding stakes and pins); reaching and handling (pulling lath off pallet, equipment out of survey vehicles).
  • Frequently (1/3 - 2/3 of workday): carrying 50 lbs. (lath, GPS equipment, briefcase); climbing and balancing (spoils, pits survey, survey vehicles); fingering (run total station, data rec., computer work); depth perception (driving, all phases of surveying); color vision (AutoCAD, color coding maps, flagging, painting).
  • Continually (2/3 - 3/3 of workday): standing and walking (staking and surveying); sitting (drafting, computer, survey vehicles); repetitive motion (computer work, data recording, driving, lath); speaking and hearing (radio communication and office work); seeing (all phases of surveying).


EEO Statement:

We are an equal opportunity employer and we do not discriminate. You must meet at least the specific minimum requirements listed above to be considered a qualified applicant.