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Air Survey Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weather Camera Systems Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$131K - $138K/yr

... pilots, air traffic personnel, and aviation stakeholders have access to reliable, real-time weather ... Site Surveys & Field Engineering * Conduct comprehensive site surveys and site evaluations to ...

Weather Camera Systems Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$131K - $138K/yr

... pilots, air traffic personnel, and aviation stakeholders have access to reliable, real-time weather ... Site Surveys & Field Engineering * Conduct comprehensive site surveys and site evaluations to ...

Deployed DHC8 Captain

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$37.50 - $61.57/hr

Perform precise aerial survey flying in all types of weather and terrain driven by diverse sensor ... Air Transport Pilot or Current FAA Commercial Pilot License with Instrument and Multi Engine ...

Mining Engineer

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Operate as a commercial drone pilot operate remote drones for aerial survey work Education Bachelor ... Must be able to travel overnight (air/auto) Conditions of Employment Successful candidate must ...

Operate as a commercial drone pilot operate remote drones for aerial survey work Education Bachelor ... Must be able to travel overnight (air/auto) Conditions of Employment Successful candidate must ...

Mining Engineer

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Operate as a commercial drone pilot operate remote drones for aerial survey work Education Bachelor ... Must be able to travel overnight (air/auto) Conditions of Employment Successful candidate must ...

Physical Therapist

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$1.3K - $1.7K/wk

... Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), and other MAJCOMs. Aircrew surveys from 2020 to 2024 indicate up to 99% of fighter pilots experience flying-related spinal pain during their careers. These issues ...

Physical Therapist

Harshaw, WI · On-site

$1.6K - $2.0K/wk

... Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), and other MAJCOMs. Aircrew surveys from 2020 to 2024 indicate up to 99% of fighter pilots experience flying-related spinal pain during their careers. These issues ...

IL · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

Update, maintain, and develop the MEFPAK Playbook and post pilot-unit management, training, and ... Hands-on experience developing, registering, maintaining, or managing DoD or Air Force UTCs.

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Air Survey Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do air survey pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for air survey 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 an air survey pilot?

Air Survey Pilots are specialized pilots who operate aircraft for the purpose of conducting aerial surveys. These surveys involve collecting data and imagery from the air, which is used in mapping, environmental studies, construction planning, and other fields. Air Survey Pilots must have strong flying skills and a deep understanding of survey equipment and procedures. They often work closely with surveyors, engineers, and scientists to ensure accurate data collection. Their role is essential for gathering information that cannot be easily obtained from the ground.

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

Air Survey Pilots often face challenges such as maintaining precise flight paths and altitudes required for accurate data collection, which can be demanding in varying weather and airspace conditions. Coordinating closely with survey technicians and camera operators is essential to ensure equipment functions correctly and data is captured as planned. Additionally, flights may require early mornings or long hours to take advantage of optimal light and weather, and navigating restricted or busy airspace can add complexity to mission planning and execution. Adaptability and strong communication skills are key for overcoming these challenges and ensuring mission success.

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

To thrive as an Air Survey Pilot, you need an FAA commercial pilot license, strong navigation skills, and experience with aerial survey operations. Familiarity with specialized survey equipment, GPS mapping systems, and flight planning software is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for managing complex missions and collaborating with survey teams. These competencies ensure safe, accurate data collection and efficient coordination during aerial survey projects.

What is the difference between Air Survey Pilot vs Drone Pilot?

AspectAir Survey PilotDrone Pilot
CredentialsCommercial pilot license, specific survey trainingRemote Pilot Certificate (Part 107), drone operation training
Work EnvironmentAircraft in open skies, often over remote areasGround-based, controlled environments, or outdoor locations
Industry UsageMapping, aerial surveys, geographic data collectionInspection, photography, small-scale mapping

While both roles involve aerial operations, Air Survey Pilots operate manned aircraft for detailed surveys and mapping, requiring pilot licenses and specialized training. Drone Pilots operate unmanned aerial vehicles for various data collection tasks, often with different certification requirements. The choice depends on project scope, scale, and industry needs.

More about Air Survey Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Air Survey Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Air Survey Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Air Survey Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Air Survey Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Air Survey Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Air Survey Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Air Survey Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Relocation not required

 

Position Summary: The ISR Captain for Dash8 role exists to provide pilot services for tactical ISR aircraft in austere locations.
Key Responsibilities:                                                                          

  • Pilot the Dash-8 in company operations related to functional check flights, OCONUS or CONUS ISR flight activities and other flight responsibilities as assigned
  • Perform precise aerial survey flying in all types of weather and terrain driven by diverse sensor requirements
  • Know and comply with Federal Aviation Regulations, applicable Air Force Service Guidance, and company standards
  • Represent Dynamic Aviation by presenting a confident, professional pilot image to customers and the general public
  • Provide daily communications while on assignment with customers
  • Perform Mission Briefing Officer duties as assigned
  • Cover office duties on non-flying days to support mission aircraft operations
  • Operate ELINT, E/O IR, and/or other airborne sensors and communications equipment (training will be provided)
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

  • Highschool diploma
  • Air Transport Pilot or Current FAA Commercial Pilot License with Instrument and Multi Engine ratings
  • High Performance and High Altitude Endorsements
  • First or Second Class FAA Medical and Restricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit
  • Minimum of 1,200 hours total time
  • Minimum of 1,000 hours PIC, 300 hours PIC in multiengine turbo-prop aircraft
  • DOD Secret security clearance (TS/SCI security clearance preferred)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Some college education
  • Dash 8 type rating 
  • DOD TS/SCI security clearance 
  • 3,000 hours PIC total time, 1000 hours total turbine time, and 200 PIC Dash 8 hours
  • 1+ years of previous deployed experience
  • Proficiency with MS Office Suite
  • Working knowledge of computer operating systems and other relevant field technology
  • Previous sensor operating experience 

Additional Requirements

  • Ability to travel away from home location for approximately 65 days on a rotational basis based on customer needs (longer if needed); no relocation is needed
  • US Passport
  • Ability to work as a team member
  • Ability to work in close proximity to other people, and in enclosed hangars and exterior weather
  • Ability to lift, balance, and carry up to 50 lbs; ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time