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Aerial Survey Pilot Jobs in Rochester, MI (NOW HIRING)

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Aerial Survey Pilot information

See Rochester, MI salary details

$13

$28

$44

How much do aerial survey pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial survey pilot in Rochester, MI is $28.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an aerial survey pilot do?

An aerial survey pilot utilizes mapping or photographic equipment while operating an aircraft. As a survey pilot, you fly over an assigned area and capture images or record data for surveying or data collection purposes. Your duties include determining the best path to obtain the required images, checking your equipment to ensure they all work properly, and coordinating with air traffic control to carry out your flight plan. While flying, you may also need to trigger sensors or turn on equipment over a designated area, fly an operator in your aircraft, or carry remote-controlled or automated sensing equipment. Survey pilots often fly in fixed-wing aircraft, though some positions require you to operate a helicopter.

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

To thrive as an Aerial Survey Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong navigation skills, and experience with low-altitude flight operations. Familiarity with aerial mapping tools, GPS systems, and specialized survey equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for managing complex missions and ensuring safety. These competencies are vital to accurately capturing data, maintaining safety standards, and delivering reliable results for survey projects.

What is an aerial survey pilot?

Aerial survey pilots are specialized aviators who operate aircraft equipped with cameras and sensors to capture images and data from the air. Their primary role is to fly specific routes over designated areas to collect information for mapping, environmental monitoring, land assessment, or resource management. These pilots work closely with survey teams and must ensure precise flight paths and altitudes to gather accurate data. They often fly small aircraft at low altitudes and may work in a variety of weather and terrain conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by aerial survey pilots during data collection missions?

Aerial Survey Pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, navigating restricted or complex airspace, and maintaining precise flight paths required for accurate data capture. Additionally, pilots must coordinate closely with survey technicians and ground crews to ensure equipment is functioning correctly and data is collected according to project specifications. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as missions may require adjusting flight plans or schedules at short notice to achieve optimal results.
More about Aerial Survey Pilot jobs
What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Aerial Survey Pilot jobs? Cities near Rochester, MI with the most Aerial Survey Pilot job openings:
Aerial Survey Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Survey Pilot job openings in Rochester, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,463 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

UAV Drone Instructor Classroom Assistant - Part Time

CREATIVE MONEY CONCEPTS LLC

Detroit, MI • On-site

$15/hr

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

AerialNomics is an educationally purposeful community where faculty, staff, and students share academic goals and strive for high standards that lead to the attainment of degrees and certificates, meaningful careers, and a committed citizenry of lifelong learners.
We value those who:

  • consistently act in the best interest of students (who have their priorities right);
  • get things accomplished (who execute);
  • are transparent (who are direct, truthful, and non-manipulative);
  • are positive in outlook (who see the glass as half-full); and
  • build constructive workplace relationships (who are team players).


We have an opening for Classroom Aid

The Classroom Aid will help supervise the scholars of our program during classroom instruction. The successful candidate should have experience in remote piloting and possess a current Part 107 UAS certificate. (Helpful but not necessary.)
The Classroom Aid must be knowledgeable about topics related to successfully operating a drone such as: FAA regulations, weather, privacy issues, battery maintenance, and various drone applications including use of drones for inspections, geological mapping, aerial photography surveys construction, utilities, pipeline, etc.

The role will be responsible for the following:
Instruction: Assist with the implemented Drone Technology course at the assigned location(s); facilitate the classroom instructional process; correctly perform and demonstrate all types of flying, maintenance and repair techniques, evaluate students, monitor progress, assign final grades; provide out-of-class academic assistance to students; maintain attendance and grade records; counsel and advise students regarding academic preparation and career goals; and work to retain students -Course and Curriculum Development: Participate in the selection of textbooks, equipment, supplies, and other learning resources; develop supplemental instructional materials; use current technology in preparation, creation and delivery of instruction; create and revise courses and/or curricula as needed; maintain updated course syllabi -Develop and Maintain a site on the school’s Learning Management System (eLearn) platform where class documents are stored (syllabi, classroom information, quizzes, tests, etc.) and available for students to access at any time. -Professional Growth: Remain current within field of assigned instruction, related occupational areas and technologies; acquire, maintain, and apply knowledge of current instructional methodologies and materials; attend scheduled college, divisional, professional development and in-service activities and participate in annual faculty evaluation process -Service to Students: Respect rights of students and access to educational opportunities; participate in registration process by advising, assist in recruitment, selection, orientation and evaluation of potential students. -In addition to teaching, the faculty member is expected to assist program graduates with employment opportunities, complete the annual Council on Occupational Education (COE) report for the program, maintain technical skills and acquire new technical skills as the industry evolves.
Position Requirements:
Education: High School/GED and possess a current FAA CFR14, Part 107C license and experience flying, maintaining and repairing drones.