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Civilian Uav Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

UAV Instructor/Operator III

Killeen, TX · On-site

$86K - $132K/yr

May be called upon to remotely pilot vehicle to determine compliance with specification and ... civilian customers, contractors and aircrew. * Basic knowledge of computer operations and ...

General Atomics

UAV Systems Specialist III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

The UAV System Specialist will be responsible for the research, coordination, development, and ... Manned or Unmanned pilot certificate (military or civilian) highly desired * Ability to work ...

SAIC

ZAU - Remote Pilot Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for a Casual, Remote Pilot ... Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets ...

New

SAIC

ZME Remote Pilot Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site +1

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot ... Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets ...

SAIC

PIT - Remote Pilot Operator

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot ... Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets ...

SAIC

ZAU - Remote Pilot Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Part-time, Remote Pilot ... Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets ...

New

SAIC

ZNY Remote Pilot Operator

Ronkonkoma, NY · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot ... Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets ...

SAIC

ZMP Remote Pilot Operator

Farmington, MN · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot ... Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets ...

SAIC

ZMA Remote Pilot Operator

Miami, FL · On-site +1

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot ... Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets ...

SAIC

ATC Tower Remote Pilot Operator

College Park, GA · On-site +1

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot ... Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets ...

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Civilian Uav Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do civilian uav pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for civilian uav 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 a civilian UAV pilot?

A Civilian UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Pilot operates drones for various non-military applications, such as aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and public safety. They are responsible for planning flights, navigating UAVs, complying with regulations, and ensuring safe operations. Depending on the industry, they may work for private companies, government agencies, or as independent contractors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a civilian UAV pilot?

To thrive as a Civilian UAV Pilot, you need strong piloting skills, spatial awareness, and a solid understanding of aviation regulations, usually backed by relevant training or a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107 in the U.S.). Familiarity with UAV control systems, flight planning software, and GPS navigation equipment is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient UAV operations and successful collaborations with team members or clients.

What are some common challenges faced by civilian UAV pilots on the job?

Civilian UAV Pilots may encounter challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, navigating complex airspace restrictions, and ensuring flight safety in different environments. They often need to troubleshoot technical issues quickly and efficiently, especially when operating sophisticated UAV equipment in the field. Additionally, pilots must stay up to date on evolving regulations and best practices to remain compliant and safe. Being prepared for these challenges helps pilots perform their duties effectively while minimizing operational risks.

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Civilian Uav Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civilian Uav Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

UAV Instructor/Operator III

General Atomics

Fort Carson, CO • On-site

$95K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Systems Integration, LLC (GA-SI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a provider of military and commercial engineering services. GA-SI is a leading-edge expert in systems integration technologies, reliability improvements, and controls system design.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Under general supervision, this position is responsible for coordinating ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution and briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and ground and flight safety. Serves as Instructor/Operator of assigned Unmanned Air Vehicle(s) (UAV).
  • Coordinates and actively participates in ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and safety.
  • May be called upon to remotely pilot vehicle to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability during engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support through specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers.
  • Defines, plans, organizes and executes flight programs and flight test events. ensures compliance with service guidance, company policy and procedures and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
  • May conduct demonstrations and tests of assigned UAV(s).
  • May represent the organization with military and commercial customers.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices. familiarity with Army forms, records and publications as well as Contractor Flight and Ground Operations procedures and records (DCMA 8210).

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires education training equivalent to the completion of a four-year technical degree or trade school equivalency and five or more years in UAV operation or aviation. Equivalent professional or military experience in UAV or aviation may be substituted in lieu of education.
  • Must demonstrate a basic understanding of UAV and FAA principles, theories and concepts.
  • Must possess at least six hundred (600) hours in a OSGCS/UGCS of which two hundred (200) hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
  • Graduate of DA or DES IO course.
  • Ability to travel on CONUS and OCONUS.
  • Ability to maintain a FAA Class II flight physical.
  • Good analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to accurately interface with all levels of employees and military and civilian customers, contractors and aircrew.
  • Basic knowledge of computer operations and applications.
  • The ability to work both independently and in a team environment is essential as is the ability to work extended hours and travel as required.

What General Atomics employees say

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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