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Certified Drone Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mariana Minerals

Drone Operator

Moab, UT · On-site

Operators must maintain required certifications and be capable of working independently in a safety-sensitive environment. Housing can be provided onsite. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Drone ...

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Operator

Brentwood, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Drone Operator (Swing Shift) Location: Brentwood, TN Employment Type: Full Time Compensation ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required. Core Values & Competencies The ideal candidate ...

Valcourt

Drone Operator (72213)

Cleveland, OH

$25 - $30/hr

FAA Part 107 Certification (mandatory for commercial drone operation). * Proven experience in operating drones for commercial applications, preferably in pressure washing or building maintenance.

Valcourt

Drone Operator (73468)

Charlotte, NC

FAA Part 107 Certification (mandatory for commercial drone operation). * Proven experience in operating drones for commercial applications, preferably in pressure washing or building maintenance.

Centraprise

Drone Operator / UAV Pilot

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Drone Operator / UAV Pilot - FAA Part 107 Certified Location: Mountain View, CA; Denver, CO; Los Angeles, CA; San Francisco, CA; San Diego, CA; Seattle, WA; Miami, FL; Philadelphia, PA; Phoenix, AZ;

Scout AI

Drone Operator

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $20.25/hr

The Role We're hiring a Drone Operator to join our Mission Operations team at our test site in Paso ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, or the ability to obtain one prior to start * Strong ...

Allen Control Systems

Advanced Drone Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

... drone operator who is experienced in building, configuring, and flying advanced UAV systems. This ... You will serve as an additional Part 107 certified pilot to meet our growing testing and mission ...

Centraprise

Drone Operator/ UAV Pilot

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Drone Operator/ UAV Pilot Type: Full-time Work Location: * Mountain View, CA * Los Angeles, CA ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (Valid) Comfortable traveling between multiple drone ...

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Certified Drone Operator information

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How much do certified drone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified drone operator in the United States is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified drone operator?

A Certified Drone Operator is a professional who has received official certification to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) for commercial, industrial, or professional purposes. Certification typically involves passing a knowledge test and meeting regulatory requirements set by aviation authorities, such as the FAA in the United States. Certified Drone Operators are trained to safely pilot drones, follow airspace regulations, and complete specialized tasks like aerial photography, surveying, or inspections. They are essential for industries needing high-quality aerial data or imagery while ensuring compliance with local laws. Their certification demonstrates both technical skill and an understanding of legal responsibilities associated with drone flight.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified drone operator?

To thrive as a Certified Drone Operator, you need a solid understanding of aviation regulations, drone piloting skills, and typically hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or equivalent. Familiarity with drone flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and aerial imaging technology is crucial. Excellent situational awareness, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set top operators apart. These skills ensure safe, precise, and compliant drone operations for applications across industries like surveying, inspection, and media.

What are some common challenges faced by certified drone operators in the field?

Certified Drone Operators often encounter challenges such as changing weather conditions, restricted airspace, and the need to maintain line-of-sight with the drone at all times. Adapting quickly to unexpected obstacles, such as signal interference or equipment malfunctions, is also a routine part of the job. Additionally, operators must keep up-to-date with evolving regulations and often work closely with clients, surveyors, or project managers to ensure data collection meets specific requirements.

What is the difference between Certified Drone Operator vs Drone Pilot?

AspectCertified Drone OperatorDrone Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Certification or equivalentFAA Part 107 Certification or similar
Work EnvironmentCommercial drone operations, surveying, filmingCommercial and recreational flying, aerial photography
Industry UsageConstruction, agriculture, mediaMedia, real estate, inspections

Both Certified Drone Operators and Drone Pilots typically hold FAA Part 107 certification and work in similar environments. The term 'Drone Pilot' is often used interchangeably but may emphasize flying skills more, while 'Certified Drone Operator' highlights formal certification and operational responsibilities. Understanding these nuances helps clarify job roles in the drone industry.

Are licensed drone operators in demand?

Licensed drone operators are in increasing demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, real estate, and media, as businesses seek aerial imaging and data collection. The growing use of drones and the need for certified operators with FAA or equivalent licenses contribute to job opportunities in this field.

Do certified drone operators make a lot of money?

Certified drone operators can earn varying salaries depending on experience, location, and industry, with many earning between $40,000 and $80,000 annually. Skilled operators with specialized certifications and equipment may command higher wages, especially in sectors like filmmaking, surveying, or inspection services.

What cities are hiring for Certified Drone Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Certified Drone Operator job openings:

What states have the most Certified Drone Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Certified Drone Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Certified Drone Operator jobs?

For Certified Drone Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Drone Operator

Moab, UT • On-site

Mariana Minerals
See more jobs at Mariana Mineralsexternal

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

About Mariana Minerals
Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We're reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
Position Summary
The Drone Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in support of mining operations. This role conducts and supervises continuous drone flight activities for surveying, inspection, monitoring, mapping, stockpile measurements, environmental compliance, security surveillance, and operational support. The Drone Operator ensures all drone missions are executed in accordance with applicable aviation regulations, company policies, and mine safety standards.
This position requires strong technical knowledge of drone systems, mining operations, aviation regulations, and emergency response procedures. Operators must maintain required certifications and be capable of working independently in a safety-sensitive environment.
Housing can be provided onsite.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Drone Operations
  • Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections of drone systems and equipment.
  • Operate and monitor drones in a 24/7 mining environment during day and night shifts.
  • Execute automated and manual flight missions for mapping, surveying, inspections, and site monitoring.
  • Monitor telemetry, battery status, weather conditions, and airspace restrictions to ensure safe operations.
  • Maintain compliance with FAA, MSHA, and company safety and operational requirements.
  • Collect aerial imagery, video, LiDAR, photogrammetry, and other operational data.
  • Verify data quality, process mission outputs, and distribute information to stakeholders.
  • Prepare reports and communicate operational findings to management and project teams.
  • Coordinate drone activities with mine supervisors, engineering, dispatch, security, and safety personnel.
  • Conduct mission risk assessments and maintain awareness of mining hazards, traffic, blasting schedules, and restricted areas.
  • Respond to equipment malfunctions, flight deviations, and emergency situations.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drones, sensors, batteries, and related equipment.
  • Coordinate repairs with vendors and technical support teams and maintain parts and supply inventories.
  • Maintain accurate flight logs, operational records, maintenance documentation, and compliance reports.

Required Qualifications
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required).
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain site-specific mining and safety certifications.
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Associate degree or technical training in aviation, geospatial technology, engineering, surveying, or a related field preferred.
  • Minimum 2 years of professional drone operating experience preferred.
  • Experience operating drones in industrial, construction, mining, energy, or similar environments preferred.
  • Understanding of mining operations, mine safety procedures, and site hazards.
  • Experience with drone mission planning software and flight management systems.
  • Knowledge of aerial surveying, photogrammetry, GIS, LiDAR, or mapping technologies preferred.
  • Ability to read maps, site plans, and technical documents.
  • Familiarity with weather impacts on drone operations.

Required Skills & Competencies
  • Strong commitment to safety.
  • Excellent situational awareness and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
  • Attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping.
  • Ability to remain alert and focused during extended monitoring periods.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to walk on uneven terrain and active mining sites.
  • Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, and kneel for extended periods.
  • Ability to maintain visual observation of aircraft during flight operations when required.

Work Environment
  • Active surface or underground mining operations.
  • Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, heavy equipment traffic, and changing weather conditions.
  • Rotating 24/7 shift coverage including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with autonomous drone operations.
  • MSHA training or mining industry experience.
  • GIS, surveying, photogrammetry, or LiDAR experience.
  • Experience managing multiple simultaneous drone missions.
  • Advanced drone certifications or manufacturer-specific training.
Our culture is built on four principles:
Everyone Gets Home Safe. We never put speed or cost ahead of people.
Extreme Ownership. We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions.
Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate. We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale.
Share Your Legos. We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions.
Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply!

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