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Commercial Drone Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Drone Pilot

Midland, TX ยท On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Experience with DJI Enterprise platforms or similar commercial drone systems * Experience with ... drone mapping, orthomosaic imagery, or photogrammetry softwar * Basic video editing and content ...

NY ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

As both a drone fleet operator and a workforce partner, Alpha Drones supports client projects across agriculture and other commercial drone service areas, helping organizations access trained pilots ...

Sales Internship

Fort Myers, FL ยท On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Company Description Soaring Sky provides state of the art commercial services using drone technology. We believe in soaring to new levels and inspiring new possibilities. We are the first company in ...

UAS Operations Support Specialist

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site

$52K - $69K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

UAS Operations Support Specialist

Saint Louis, MO ยท On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Commercial Drone information

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$11

$22

$34

How much do commercial drone jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for commercial drone in the United States is $22.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a commercial drone?

Commercial drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) used for business or professional purposes, such as aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, delivery services, and more. Unlike recreational drones, commercial drones are typically operated by trained pilots and may require licensing or certification depending on the country. They are equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, or other specialized equipment to perform specific tasks more efficiently and safely. The commercial drone industry is rapidly growing, offering new opportunities across various sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a commercial drone pilot?

To thrive as a Commercial Drone Pilot, you need strong piloting skills, knowledge of aviation regulations, and typically a Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107 from the FAA. Familiarity with drone-specific software, GPS navigation systems, and aerial imaging tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set top performers apart in this field. These skills ensure safe flight operations, regulatory compliance, and high-quality deliverables for clients across industries.

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

Commercial drone operators often encounter challenges such as navigating complex airspace regulations, maintaining compliance with local and federal laws, and adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions. Additionally, operators must ensure their equipment is properly maintained and calibrated, and troubleshoot technical issues that may arise during missions. Effective communication and collaboration with clients, team members, and air traffic control are also essential to ensure safe and successful operations.

What is the difference between Commercial Drone vs Commercial Drone Pilot?

AspectCommercial DroneCommercial Drone Pilot
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required for operation, but some regions require registrationRequires FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent
Work EnvironmentUsed in various industries like photography, agriculture, constructionOperates drones in these industries, often on-site or in offices
Employer & Industry UsageEmployers hire for drone services or own fleetsHired as licensed operators for specific projects

The main difference is that a Commercial Drone refers to the equipment or the service, while a Commercial Drone Pilot is a licensed individual authorized to operate drones commercially. The pilot holds specific certifications, whereas the commercial drone itself may not require formal licensing.

How to get a job as a commercial drone pilot?

To become a commercial drone pilot, you need to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA by passing an aeronautical knowledge test, and gain experience operating drones safely. Skills in navigation, photography, or videography can be beneficial, and understanding local regulations is essential for compliance. Many employers also value hands-on flight experience and proficiency with drone software and equipment.
More about Commercial Drone jobs

What cities are hiring for Commercial Drone jobs?

Cities with the most Commercial Drone job openings:

What states have the most Commercial Drone jobs?

States with the most job openings for Commercial Drone jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Commercial Drone jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Commercial Drone jobs are:

Infographic showing various Commercial Drone job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 46% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,504 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Drone Pilot

San Antonio Spurs

Midland, TX โ€ข On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

About Us

NorthStar Energy Services, a Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR) company, is based in Channelview, TX and provides engineering, design, procurement, construction and support services to the chemical, petrochemical, pipeline, oil & gas, bulk storage and terminal industries throughout the country. We offer individual project services as well as turnkey EPC project implementation.

NorthStar possesses the skills and expertise to self-perform the design and installation of civil, structural, mechanical, piping, electrical, and instrumentation systems throughout a broad array of industrial applications.

Joining our team means being part of an organization that values drive and inclusion. We focus on career development and reward excellence, recognizing each team member's unique contributions. We're at the forefront of powering modern life. Discover how your skills and dedication can make a real difference to us.

About this Role

NorthStar Energy Services is seeking a Drone Pilot & Project Documentation Specialist to support data center construction projects throughout West Texas and surrounding regions.

This role is responsible for capturing aerial imagery and video to document project progress, support client reporting, and provide visual insight into ongoing construction activities. The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate with project teams, and maintain organized project documentation throughout the construction lifecycle.

What You'll Do
  • Travel to active data center construction sites to capture aerial photography and video of project progress
  • Operate unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in compliance with FAA regulations and company policies
  • Document construction milestones, site conditions, equipment installation, and project progress for internal and client reporting
  • Coordinate with project managers, construction managers, and field leadership to schedule site visits and capture key project activities
  • Organize, edit, and maintain photo and video files in accordance with company documentation standards
  • Develop recurring progress reports and visual project updates for clients and leadership teams
  • Conduct pre-flight inspections and maintain drone equipment in safe operating condition
  • Maintain flight logs, airspace authorizations, and required FAA documentation
  • Support special project documentation needs, marketing initiatives, and project closeout activities as requested
What You'll Bring
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required
  • Experience operating drones in construction, industrial, infrastructure, or commercial environments preferred
  • Strong photography and videography skills
  • Experience organizing and managing large volumes of digital project documentation
  • Ability to work independently and manage travel across multiple project locations
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and cloud-based file management platforms
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to travel extensively throughout West Texas and other project locations as required
  • Experience with DJI Enterprise platforms or similar commercial drone systems
  • Experience with drone mapping, orthomosaic imagery, or photogrammetry softwar
  • Basic video editing and content creation skills
What Youโ€™ll Get

As a Quanta Services employee, we offer a wide range of benefits to fit your needs.

  • 401(k) with immediate matching and vesting
  • Fully comprehensive benefits packages; Medical, Dental, Vision
    • Your choice of PPO, HSA, FSA
  • Short term and long term benefits
  • Employee discounts on consumer goods

#LI-GR1

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Companyโ€™s Human Resources department.

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