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Aerial Surveyor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sawtooth Mining

Surveyor

Winnemucca, NV · On-site

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 ...

Sawtooth Mining

Surveyor

Winnemucca, NV · On-site

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 ...

dynamicaviation

Aerial Survey Captain

Bridgewater, VA

$27 - $33.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are currently looking for Captains to travel extensively, provide safe and professional short notice, on-demand, aerial surveying operations in Beechcraft King Air 90 or King Air 200 aircraft.

Trans Ash, Inc.

Surveyor I (Plant Barry)

Bucks, AL · On-site

$84K - $124K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs sUAS (drone) aerial surveys. * Assists in the creation of as-built drawings for project milestones. * Maintain survey records, GPS, and CAD files. * Ability to read and interpret engineering ...

Sandis

Project Surveyor

Oakland, CA · On-site

$35 - $62.45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Drafting aerial surveys from our UAV (Drone) * Solve problems using exciting new technology. * Opportunity to work outside as a field surveyor. * Have fun while you build a strong career ...

Dynamic Aviation

Aerial Survey Captain

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$27 - $33.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are currently looking for Captains to travel extensively, provide safe and professional short notice, on-demand, aerial surveying operations in Beechcraft King Air 90 or King Air 200 aircraft.

SuperbTech, Inc

Surveyor

El Monte, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Compile and analyze data required for map preparation, including aerial photography, survey notes, records, reports, calculations, and original mapping. * Verify accuracy and completeness of real ...

SuperbTech

Surveyor

El Monte, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Compile and analyze data required for map preparation, including aerial photography, survey notes, records, reports, calculations, and original mapping. * Verify accuracy and completeness of real ...

SuperbTech

Surveyor

El Monte, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Compile and analyze data required for map preparation, including aerial photography, survey notes, records, reports, calculations, and original mapping. * Verify accuracy and completeness of real ...

Vexcel

Aerial Sensor Operator

Frederick, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Frederick, MD Keystone Aerial Surveys, Inc., part of the Vexcel Imaging family, is seeking an Aerial Sensor Operator to join our aerial data collection team. If you are curious about aviation, enjoy ...

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Aerial Surveyor information

See salary details

$31.5K

$74.7K

$120.5K

How much do aerial surveyor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial surveyor in the United States is $74,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerial surveyor?

Aerial surveyors are professionals who use aircraft, drones, or other aerial platforms to collect geospatial data from above the ground. They capture images, videos, and other sensor data to create maps, measure land features, and assist in projects such as construction, environmental monitoring, and land management. Their work is essential for providing accurate information for planning, analysis, and decision-making in various industries.

How does an aerial surveyor typically collaborate with other professionals during a project?

Aerial Surveyors work closely with GIS analysts, cartographers, engineers, and project managers to ensure accurate data collection and interpretation. They often coordinate flight plans and data acquisition schedules with pilots and ground crews, then collaborate with data processing teams to analyze imagery and deliver actionable reports. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as survey results directly impact the planning and execution of construction, environmental, or mapping projects. This collaborative environment provides opportunities to learn from other specialists and understand a project's broader context.

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

To thrive as an Aerial Surveyor, you need expertise in geospatial data collection, photogrammetry, and mapping, typically supported by a degree in surveying, geography, or a related field. Familiarity with GPS systems, GIS software, UAVs (drones), and remote sensing equipment is essential, and FAA drone pilot certification is often required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with project teams. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate data capture, regulatory compliance, and delivering actionable insights in surveying projects.

What is the difference between Aerial Surveyor vs Drone Pilot?

AspectAerial SurveyorDrone Pilot
CredentialsOften requires GIS, mapping, or surveying certificationsRequires drone operation licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentField surveys, aerial mapping, data collectionFlying drones for various applications, including surveys
Industry UsageSurveying, construction, environmental monitoringPhotography, inspection, surveying

While both roles involve aerial work, an Aerial Surveyor focuses on collecting geospatial data and mapping, often requiring specialized surveying credentials. A Drone Pilot primarily operates drones for various tasks, including surveys, but may not have the same surveying certifications. Both roles are essential in industries like construction and environmental monitoring, but their core responsibilities and required qualifications differ.

How to get into aerial surveyor?

To become an aerial surveyor, you typically need a background in surveying, geography, or related fields, along with experience operating aerial imaging equipment or drones. Earning relevant certifications, such as a drone pilot license or surveyor certification, and gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions are important steps in entering the field.
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Aerial Surveyor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Surveyor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,746 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Land Surveyor RLS - Experienced RLS w/ Drone

COOPER AERIAL SURVEYS CO

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Land Surveyor | RLS w/Drone License – Phoenix, AZ (Full-Time)

Cooper Aerial Surveys is an Arizona-based aerial mapping and land surveying firm seeking an experienced Registered Land Surveyor (RLS) with drone/UAS experience to join our Phoenix team. This is a full-time, in-office/field position for someone who knows their way around real projects, can operate independently, and takes pride in doing things right.

This role involves fieldwork and project support on ALTA, Topographic, Construction Staking, Boundary, and aerial mapping projects. The ideal candidate is comfortable both in the field and around technology — including drone operations, survey equipment, and coordination with project teams. You’ll often work independently but also collaborate with crews, pilots, CAD staff, and clients. We’re looking for someone reliable, professional, and easy to work with — competence and attitude both matter here.

Requirements

  • Active Arizona Registered Land Surveyor (RLS) license preferred (or ability to obtain Arizona reciprocity)
  • FAA Part 107 Drone License required
  • 5+ years of land surveying field experience
  • 3+ years flying Drones for survey work
  • Experience with drone/UAS data collection and mission planning
  • Ability to communicate clearly with superintendents, contractors, clients, and project teams
  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD Civil 3D (required)
  • Trimble Business Center experience is a plus
  • Strong understanding of land surveying techniques, principles, boundary law, and survey standards
  • Experience operating GPS, robotic total stations, and related survey equipment
  • Proven work history, strong work ethic, and team-first mindset
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage your own work
  • Having your own equipment is a plus (if compatible with our resources)

Equipment & Training

Cooper Aerial uses Trimble robotic and GPS equipment along with drone/UAS platforms for aerial mapping and data collection. Experience with Trimble workflows, photogrammetry, LiDAR, or aerial mapping is a plus, but we’re willing to train the right person with a strong surveying background and willingness to learn.

Company Description

Cooper Aerial Surveys Co has been setting the standard in mapping and land surveying since 1966. We’re a client-focused firm known for delivering accurate, high-quality work on complex projects—and doing it consistently. Our team of 40+ professionals across multiple locations nationwide includes some of the most skilled and experienced people in the aerial mapping and survey industry.

What truly sets Cooper Aerial apart is our team. We hire smart, capable people and trust them to do great work. That experience shows up in our deliverables, which are recognized for their quality, reliability, and attention to detail. We serve clients worldwide and have built our reputation on excellence, strong relationships, and staying ahead of the curve as mapping technology continues to evolve.

If you care about quality and want to be part of a team known for its reputation and results, you’ll fit in at Cooper Aerial.