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Aerial Pilot Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

FMS Aerospace

Flight Sciences Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

This role works closely with flight test engineers, test pilots, instrumentation specialists, and ... Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace, is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure ...

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Performance Drone Works

sUAS Pilot

Huntsville, AL · On-site

We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design ...

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All JobsAerial Pilot JobsAerial Pilot Jobs in Alabama

Aerial Pilot information

See Alabama salary details

$44.9K

$118.7K

$182.2K

How much do aerial pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial pilot in Alabama is $118,661.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $140,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerial pilot?

Aerial pilots are licensed professionals who operate aircraft for purposes other than commercial airline transportation. Their work often includes aerial photography, surveying, agricultural applications (like crop dusting), firefighting, search and rescue, and banner towing. Aerial pilots must have specialized training and certifications that depend on their specific area of work, and they must adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards. They often work in varied and sometimes challenging environments, and their skills are critical for tasks that require precision flying. Aerial pilots play an essential role in industries ranging from agriculture to emergency services.

What does an aerial pilot do?

The job duties of an aerial pilot involve operating an aircraft to perform different airborne tasks. Your responsibilities vary depending on the industry. An aerial survey pilot performs data acquisition and mapping tasks while they fly over an area. As an aerial photography pilot, you take images from the air or fly a photography team over the site or event they want to photograph. An aerial firefighter pilot releases water or fire suppression liquid over a forest fire. Crop dusters release fertilizer or pesticide over farm fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerial pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerial Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong aviation knowledge, and excellent flight proficiency, often supported by specialized training for aerial operations. Familiarity with navigation systems, GPS technology, and flight planning software is typically required, along with certifications such as an FAA Part 61 or 141 license. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and strong decision-making skills set exceptional aerial pilots apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring flight safety, regulatory compliance, and effective execution of specialized missions like photography, surveying, or agricultural work.

What are some common challenges aerial pilots face when operating in diverse weather conditions?

Aerial Pilots often encounter rapidly changing weather patterns that can significantly affect flight safety and mission success. Navigating through turbulence, low visibility, and unexpected wind shifts requires quick decision-making and constant communication with ground control and co-pilots. Staying updated on weather reports and having contingency plans in place are essential parts of the job. Pilots must also be adept at adjusting flight plans on the fly to maintain safety and efficiency.

What is the difference between Aerial Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectAerial PilotDrone Operator
CertificationsFAA pilot license, commercial pilot certificateRemote Pilot Certificate (Part 107)
Work EnvironmentAircraft in various outdoor settings, often in aviation or film industriesRemote control, often indoors or in designated outdoor areas
Industry UsageAviation, aerial photography, surveying, firefightingFilmmaking, inspections, agriculture, real estate

While both roles involve flying devices, Aerial Pilots operate manned aircraft requiring pilot licenses and often work in aviation or aerial services. Drone Operators control unmanned drones with remote licenses, mainly used for filming, inspections, or agricultural purposes. The key differences lie in certification requirements, work environment, and industry applications.

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

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

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

Aerial Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Pilot job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,661 per year, or $57 per hour.

Full-Time Survey Pilot 208 Fleet

Revolution Flight LLC

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Revolution Flight LLC. is a leading provider of aerial surveying solutions, specializing in collecting high-quality data for various industries including environmental research, urban planning, agriculture, and infrastructure development. Our team is dedicated to leveraging cutting-edge technology and expert piloting skills to deliver accurate and actionable insights to our clients.

Job Description: As a Full-Time Survey Pilot at Revolution Flight, you will be responsible for operating our fleet of survey aircraft to collect geospatial data for a wide range of projects. You will work closely with our team of analysts and clients to ensure that data collection meets project objectives and quality standards.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct aerial surveys using specialized survey aircraft equipped with advanced sensors and camera systems.
  • Plan flight missions and routes based on project requirements, weather conditions, and airspace regulations.
  • Perform pre-flight inspections and checks to ensure the airworthiness of the aircraft and safety of the mission.
  • Operate survey equipment and software to collect, process, and analyze geospatial data.
  • Collaborate with clients and project managers to understand survey objectives and requirements.
  • Maintain accurate records of flight operations, data collection, and project documentation.
  • Adhere to safety protocols and procedures to ensure safe flight operations at all times.
  • Participate in training programs and stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
  • This a FULL-TIME position, and will include continuous travel.

Qualifications:

  • FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating.
  • Minimum of 600 hours of experience as a pilot, preferably in aerial survey operations.
  • Experience flying fixed-wing aircraft, preferably in survey or remote sensing applications.
  • Strong understanding of aviation regulations and airspace management.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Attention to detail and ability to maintain focus during long flights.
  • Proficiency with survey equipment and data processing software is a plus.
  • Bachelor's degree in aviation, engineering, geography, or related field is preferred.

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, dental, retirement plans, and paid time off.
  • Opportunities for professional development within the company.
  • Exciting and dynamic work environment with a passionate team of professionals.
  • 2 weeks of PTO that will all be available after 6 months of employment.

How to Apply: If you are a skilled pilot with a passion for aviation and a desire to make a difference, we want to hear from you! Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to this job posting! We will reach out to every qualified candidate in the order your applications are received.

Revolution Flight LLC. is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity in the workplace. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.