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Aerial Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Collier Mosquito Control District

Pilot I

Naples, FL · On-site

In this role, you will operate District aircraft in support of aerial mosquito control missions and ... Brief The Pilot I position is responsible for the safe operation of District aircraft as Pilot in ...

Collier Mosquito Control District

Pilot I

Naples, FL · On-site

In this role, you will operate District aircraft in support of aerial mosquito control missions and ... Brief The Pilot I position is responsible for the safe operation of District aircraft as Pilot in ...

Collier Mosquito Control District

Pilot I

Naples, FL · On-site

$73K - $127K/yr

In this role, you will operate District aircraft in support of aerial mosquito control missions and ... Brief The Pilot I position is responsible for the safe operation of District aircraft as Pilot in ...

Asplundh

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and experienced MD500 pilots with long-line expertise and a demonstrated commitment to safety. The successful ...

Collier Mosquito Control District

Pilot I

Naples, FL

In this role, you will operate District aircraft in support of aerial mosquito control missions and ... Brief The Pilot I position is responsible for the safe operation of District aircraft as Pilot in ...

Asplundh

Pilot

Georgetown, SC

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and experienced MD500 pilots with long-line expertise and a demonstrated commitment to safety. The successful ...

Asplundh Tree Expert

Pilot

Georgetown, SC

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and experienced MD500 pilots with long-line expertise and a demonstrated commitment to safety. The successful ...

Asplundh Tree Expert

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and experienced MD500 pilots with long-line expertise and a demonstrated commitment to safety. The successful ...

Asplundh Tree Expert

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and experienced MD500 pilots with long-line expertise and a demonstrated commitment to safety. The successful ...

Asplundh

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Aerial Saw Pilot Our company is seeking highly skilled and experienced MD500 pilots with long-line expertise and a demonstrated commitment to safety. The successful candidate will perform aerial saw ...

Rotor Blade, LLC

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and experienced MD500 pilots with long-line expertise and a demonstrated commitment to safety. The successful ...

Utilities Service, LLC

Pilot

Georgetown, SC

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overv iew Our company is seeking highly skilled and experienced MD500 pilots with long-line expertise and a demonstrated commitment to safety. The successful ...

Aero-Graphics

Pilot /Mission Specialist

Woods Cross, UT

$39K - $58K/yr

Woods Cross, UT, 84087Job Summary The Pilot/Mission Specialist is responsible for operating turbine-powered Cessna aircraft and collecting aerial data using a variety of onboard sensor systems. The ...

JetPro Pilots

Aerial Patroller (Full Time)

Concord, CA · On-site

* Act as mission commander during flights, providing pre-flight mission briefing to pilot * Maintain situational awareness during flight and communicate potential hazards to pilot * Perform aerial ...

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Aerial Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do aerial pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 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.
More about Aerial Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerial Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Aerial Pilot job openings:
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Aerial Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Seasonal Pilot in Command Drone Light Shows

Great Lakes Drone Company LLC

Coloma, MI • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Temporary

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Seasonal Pilot in Command for Drone Light Shows
Company: Starlight Aerial Productions, a division of Great Lakes Drone Company
Location: Various locations, ability to travel as needed
Duration: Seasonal (April to October), with the possibility of extension
Start Date: April 2024
Hourly Rate: $20-$30
Benefits:
  • Daily travel per diem provided
  • Opportunity to work with cutting-edge drone technology in spectacular light shows

Job Description: Starlight Aerial Productions is seeking a skilled and dynamic Seasonal Pilot in Command for our drone light shows. As the Pilot in Command, you will be at the forefront of delivering awe-inspiring aerial light displays that captivate audiences across various locations. This role requires a blend of technical proficiency, leadership skills, and a passion for innovation in the field of aerial entertainment.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the Pilot in Command for drone light shows, ensuring safe and efficient flight operations.
  • Lead the flight planning process, including route planning, weather assessments, and risk management.
  • Oversee and coordinate the activities of drone show line technicians, ensuring smooth setup and operation of drone shows.
  • Conduct pre-flight checks and monitor drones during flight to ensure compliance with safety regulations and show requirements.
  • Collaborate with the show production team to integrate flight plans with creative elements of the light show.
  • Maintain clear and effective communication with the manager and director of Starlight Operations, as well as the owner of Great Lakes Drone Company.
  • Be flexible with your schedule to accommodate the dynamic nature of show timings and locations.

Requirements:
  • Must possess a valid FAA Part 107 certification.
  • Valid state driver's license and ability to travel as needed.
  • Must attend a mandatory 5-day Drone Show Pilot Boot Camp in March 2024.
  • Strong leadership skills and ability to manage a team of technicians.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing circumstances.
  • Previous experience in drone operations or aerial entertainment is a plus.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter highlighting their relevant experience and qualifications.
Join us at Starlight Aerial Productions and be part of a team that brings the night sky to life with breathtaking drone light shows!

Apply