1

Aerial Surveyor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

Location: 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 ...

Sr. Land Surveyor

El Monte, CA · On-site

$110K/yr

Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, original maps, and calculations. * Verify accuracy and completeness of real property and right ...

Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, original maps, and calculations. * Verify accuracy and completeness of real property and right ...

Sr. Land Surveyor

El Monte, CA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, original maps, and calculations. * Verify accuracy and completeness of real property and right ...

Sr. Land Surveyor

El Monte, CA · On-site

$110K/yr

Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, original maps, and calculations. * Verify accuracy and completeness of real property and right ...

Makes vertical control surveys for aerial surveys; determines elevations for various surfaces. * Makes topographical surveys and site surveys for the design and development of docks, buildings, roads ...

Makes vertical control surveys for aerial surveys; determines elevations for various surfaces. * Makes topographical surveys and site surveys for the design and development of docks, buildings, roads ...

Showing results 21-40

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.
More about Aerial Surveyor jobs

What cities are hiring for Aerial Surveyor jobs?

Cities with the most Aerial Surveyor job openings:

What states have the most Aerial Surveyor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aerial Surveyor jobs include:

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.

Registered Land Surveyor (Exempt)

Navajo Tribal Utility Authority

Fort Defiance, AZ

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

High School Diploma or GED Certificate.

Vocational/Specialized Training.

Land Surveyor License required in Arizona, New Mexico, and/or Utah. CFEDS License preferred.

5 years of experience in Surveying/Legal Surveying.

Experience in the interpretation of design and construction manuals and standards; ability to recognize features in the field.

Valid Driver's License (subject to motor vehicle record review).


JOB RESPONSIBILITIES AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

Determines methods and procedures for establishing or reestablishing survey control and the accuracy of all surveys performed for the Authority.

Coordinates findings with work of engineering personnel, clients, and others concerned with project.

Prepare and maintain accurate notes, sketches, maps, reports, and legal descriptions of surveys in order to describe, certify the survey work.

Verify the accuracy of survey data, including measurements and calculations conducted at survey sites, and assumes legal responsibility for the survey work and is in the ownership of the Authority and within the laws and regulations of the Navajo Nation.

Direct or conduct surveys in order to establish legal boundaries for properties, based on legal deeds, grant of easement, and/or and withdrawals.

Record the results of surveys, including the shape, contour, location, elevation, and dimensions of land or land features.

Calculate heights, depths, relative positions, property lines, and other characteristics of terrain.

Prepare or supervise preparation of all data, charts, plots, maps, records, and documents related to surveys.

Write descriptions of property boundary surveys for use in deeds, leases, or other legal documents.

Plan and conduct ground surveys designed to establish baselines, elevations, and other geodetic measurements.

Search legal records, survey records, and land withdrawals to obtain information about property boundaries in areas to be surveyed.

Adjust surveying instruments in order to maintain their accuracy.

Establish fixed points for use in making maps, using geodetic and engineering instruments.

Determine longitudes and latitudes of important features and boundaries in survey areas, using theodolites, transits, levels, and satellite-based global positioning systems (GPS).

Train personnel and direct their work in such activities as performing surveys or drafting maps.

Analyze survey objectives and specifications in order to prepare survey proposals or to direct others in survey proposal preparation.

Compute geodetic measurements and interpret survey data in order to determine positions, shapes, and elevations of geomorphic and topographic features.

Develop criteria for survey methods and procedures.

Develop criteria for the design and modification of survey instruments.

Conduct research in surveying and mapping methods.

May use aerial surveys of specified geographical areas, if available.

Determine specifications for photographic equipment to be used for aerial photography, as well as altitudes from which to photograph terrain, if required.

Directs one or multiple survey crews to accomplish assigned work.

Performs other duties as assigned.


Navajo Preference

Navajo Veteran Preference

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.