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Aerial Pilot Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure ... Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying ...

Aerial Pilot information

See Indiana salary details

$47.1K

$124.6K

$191.3K

How much do aerial pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial pilot in Indiana is $124,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $147,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 aerial pilots?

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 are popular job titles related to Aerial Pilot jobs in Indiana? For Aerial Pilot jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aerial Pilot jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Aerial Pilot jobs in Indiana are:

Commercial UAS Pilot

CEI Services

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Overview
Responsible for assisting in the advancement of Mastec Renewables geomatics and surveying operations through the skilled use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). This position requires strong technical and communication abilities and a passion for enhancing business processes within the renewable energy sector. This position will safely operate the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) on assigned projects to ensure necessary data collection. Knowing and following FAA rules and regulations is crucial and the operators must be able to operate in a safe and effective manner.
Travel: This position may travel up to 100% of the time; but not stationed at a specific job for long.
Company Overview
MasTec Renewables, comprised of Wanzek Construction, IEA Constructors, and White Construction, combines over 20 years of experience in renewable energy construction. Depending on your position and project, you may work for one or more of our companies over your career with us. Join one of the largest construction firms in the country (Engineering News-Record [ENR]: #1 in Power, #17 Top 50 Domestic Heavy Contractors, #20 Transportation Contractor).
We embrace diverse perspectives among our employees and across all levels of our business, including our suppliers, community partners, and clients. We have built a multidimensional workforce that brings valuable differences in perspectives, work ethics, and approaches to our organization. By collaborating across departments, we foster innovation and encourage everyone-from interns to executives-to share their ideas and make an impact. Our goal is to create a respectful work environment where all employees feel valued, included, and empowered to become innovative leaders in our industry.
The MasTec Renewables market sector is part of the MasTec Clean Energy & Infrastructure business segment. MasTec's Clean Energy & Infrastructure (CE&I) segment generates over $4.5 billion in annual revenue, providing construction services across industrial, renewables and infrastructure sectors. Our renewables sector focuses on solar, wind and battery storage. Sustainability and safety are foundational to our culture and influence everything we do.
MasTec, a minority-owned Fortune 500 company, has shaped the construction industry for more than 90 years. With over 35,000 employees and 400 offices nationwide, we provide flexibility and career growth in dynamic work environments.
Responsibilities
Essential Job Functions:
  • Set up and operate UAS equipment for various tasks, including LiDAR, photogrammetry, and orthomosaic mapping
  • Ensure all equipment, such as propellers, batteries, and other accessories are well-maintained
  • Conduct flight operations in strict adherence to federal safety guidelines
  • Operate and maintain utility terrain vehicles and other field equipment as needed
  • Stay current with local, state, and federal regulations, particularly regarding FAA compliance
  • Ensure all UAS activities meet applicable laws, codes, and safety standards
  • Partner with UAS Management or Sr Pilot to secure necessary permits and approvals for surveying operations
  • Maintain an up-to-date Part 107 certification and ensure ongoing compliance with recurrent training requirements
  • Facilitate clear and effective communication between surveying teams and project management
  • Work closely with survey team and project management to provide accurate and timely information, offer regular progress updates, identify challenges, and propose solutions
  • Be prepared to adjust responsibilities based on evolving project requirements, organizational needs, and industry dynamics
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
Education and Work Experience Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Associates or Bachelor's degree in Geomatics, Surveying, Geospatial Science, Aviation, or a related field preferred
  • Minimum of two to three years of experience in UAS operations, surveying, or a related field
  • FAA Part 107 Certification (current and recurrent)
  • Experience in operating UAS for geospatial data collection, including tasks like LiDAR, photogrammetry, and orthomosaic mapping
  • Experience in the renewable energy sector or large-scale construction projects preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • Proficient in UAS operations, including experience with LiDAR, photogrammetry, and orthomosaic technologies
  • Strong understanding of GPS and GNSS systems, and their integration with UAS operations
  • Ability to read and interpret construction plans and technical schematics
  • Proficient in computer use, including file management, geospatial software, and data processing tools
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to clearly document processes, create reports, and provide detailed feedback to teams
  • Strong attention to detail and problem solving skills
  • Positive attitude and strong work ethic
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to be flexible and take a proactive approach

Working Environment:
  • Regularly exposed to outside weather conditions
  • Frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; and extreme heat
  • Occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles and vibration
  • Noise level in the work environment is usually loud

Physical Demands:
MasTec, Inc. is an EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.
What's in it for you:
Financial Wellbeing
  • Compensation $0-$0 / year, commensurate with experience
  • Competitive pay with ongoing performance review and merit increase
  • 401(k) with company match & Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Flexible spending account (Healthcare & Dependent care)

Health & Wellness
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (plan choice) - coverage for spouse, domestic partner, and children
  • Diabetes Management, Telehealth Coverage, Prescription Drug Plan, Pet Insurance, Weight Management Drug Discount
  • Discounted National Gym Membership Network

Family & Lifestyle
  • Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Bereavement Leave
  • Military Leave, including Differential Pay and Benefits Continuation
  • Employee Assistance Program

Planning for the Unexpected
  • Short and long-term disability, life insurance, and accidental death & dismemberment
  • Voluntary life insurance, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity coverage
  • Emergency Travel Assistance Program
  • Group legal plan

Position may be subject to pre-employment screening, which may include background check and drug testing. Accessibility: If you need accommodation as part of the employment process, contact ceicareers@mastec.com. Due to the high volume of applications received, we are unable to respond to individual requests regarding application status. Please log into your candidate profile for up-to-date information.
Disclaimer: MasTec and our Subsidiaries will never ask prospective employees for any form of payment or money transfer as part of job application or onboarding. We do not ask prospective employees for information about credit cards or personal passwords, and it does not require applicants to purchase equipment or software. Ensure that all recruiter email addresses end in @mastec.com or @talent.icims.com. If you suspect you are the target of a scam, we advise you to contact your local law enforcement agency and report fraud at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.
MasTec Clean Energy & Infrastructure and our subsidiaries do not work with any third-party recruiters or agencies without a valid signed agreement and partnership with the Corporate Talent Acquisition Team.
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Service Line
IMS-IEA Management Services