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Contract Isr Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rackner

R&D Engineer -- Mission Solutions

Dayton, OH · Remote

S. citizenship required due to federal contract requirements * Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S ... Participation in technical demonstrations, pilots, field exercises, workshops, briefings, or ...

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Contract Isr Pilot information

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$9

$22

$30

How much do contract isr pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract isr pilot in the United States is $22.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract ISR Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) Pilot, you need a valid commercial or military pilot license, extensive flight hours, and specialized training in ISR operations. Familiarity with ISR platforms, mission planning software, and secure communication systems is typically required, along with certifications such as FAA Part 107 for UAV operations if applicable. Strong situational awareness, decision-making, and teamwork skills are essential soft skills for effective mission execution. These qualifications ensure safe, accurate, and efficient collection of critical intelligence data in complex and dynamic environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract ISR Pilots, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract ISR Pilots often encounter challenges such as operating in unfamiliar or austere environments, adapting quickly to new mission parameters, and maintaining effective communication with diverse ground teams. Flexibility and strong situational awareness are crucial for managing these demands. Building rapport with new teams, staying current with regulatory requirements, and thorough pre-mission planning can greatly enhance mission success and personal performance in this dynamic role.

Can pilots be independent contractors?

Contract ISR pilots can work as independent contractors, depending on their employment arrangements and contractual agreements. Many pilots in the industry operate as independent contractors, which allows for flexible schedules and self-employment, but they must meet regulatory requirements and often need specific certifications such as a commercial pilot license. Employers may classify pilots as employees or contractors based on the nature of their work and control levels.

What is a Contract ISR Pilot?

A Contract ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) Pilot is a professional aviator hired on a contractual basis to operate aircraft equipped with advanced sensors and surveillance technology. Their primary role is to collect, analyze, and report intelligence data for military, government, or private sector clients. These pilots often support operations such as border security, disaster response, and military missions. Contract ISR Pilots must have specialized training in both flying and operating sophisticated ISR equipment. They typically work for defense contractors or government agencies on specific projects or missions.

How much do contract pilots get paid?

Contract ISR pilots typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of missions. Compensation can also include per diem, travel allowances, and bonuses for specialized skills or security clearances.

What is the difference between Contract Isr Pilot vs Contract UAS Pilot?

AspectContract Isr PilotContract UAS Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107, ISR-specific trainingFAA Part 107, UAS pilot license
Work EnvironmentMilitary, defense, intelligence missionsCommercial, aerial photography, surveying
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, defense contractorsPrivate companies, media, agriculture

Contract Isr Pilots and Contract UAS Pilots both operate unmanned aircraft systems, but ISR Pilots focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions often for government agencies, requiring specialized training. UAS Pilots typically work in commercial sectors like media or agriculture, with a focus on aerial data collection. While certifications like FAA Part 107 are common, the mission scope and work environment distinguish these roles.

How much does an ISR pilot make?

An ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) pilot typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and the employer. Military ISR pilots often have additional benefits such as housing allowances and retirement plans, while civilian pilots may earn higher salaries with specialized skills and certifications. Salary can also vary based on deployment, location, and operational demands.

Is there a shortage of pilots right now?

The aviation industry is experiencing a pilot shortage, including for commercial and airline pilots, due to increased travel demand and retirements. This has led to higher hiring rates and competitive salaries for qualified pilots with proper certifications and flight hours.
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Contract Isr Pilot jobs near you
UAS Air Vehicle Operator (AVO)

UAS Air Vehicle Operator (AVO)

DZYNE Technologies

Springfield, OH • On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

About DZYNE
DZYNE Technologies is leading the future of autonomous defense. Based in Irvine, California, we develop and manufacture advanced airborne and ground-based defense solutions deployed in over 50 countries. Backed by U.S. Government Programs of Record, our technologies are field-proven, scalable, and production-ready.
We're growing fast, and looking for innovators ready to make an impact. At DZYNE, you'll join a culture built on collaboration, integrity, and purpose. We celebrate wins, value diverse perspectives, and support every team member's success.
Ready to do work that matters? Join us.
Position Title: UAS Air Vehicle Operator (AVO)
Location: Springfield OH, w/OCONUS Travel Required
Work Arrangement: Onsite. This role requires on site presence for training events, evaluations, test events, with flexibility for remote administrative and planning tasks.
Position Summary
Air Vehicle Operator (AVO) candidates must be able to safely manage and conduct the operation of developmental group 4-5 unmanned aerial system (UAS) platforms and related payloads as required. This position is highly flexible and requires a high degree of competency. Candidates must be able to operate in environments that do not have fully developed documentation and training courses. The ability to create, review, edit and publish crew training documentation, checklist, operations manuals, and a variety of other contract required documents is highly desired. Basic computer skills are required. Must be able to communicate effectively with team members and management. This role may involve development flight test, mission control and transit operations both CONUS and OCONUS.
Required Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Must demonstrate extensive understanding of UAS and FAA principles, theories and concepts.
  • Must have excellent analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to efficiently collaborate with aircrew, management, civilian and government customers, and contractors.
  • Must be able to work both independently and lead in a team environment.
  • Must be willing to work extended hours when required.
  • Must have a team-first attitude and drive for system success.
  • Ability to support five (5) complete on-site workdays per week during CONUS test and flight operations
  • Ability to support seven (7) complete 12 hour on-site workdays per week during OCONUS test and flight operations

Required Skills/Qualifications:
  • FAA Commercial Pilot's License with Instrument rating OR prior military qualification on a DoD group 3/4/5 UAS with 500 hour of PIC.
  • Maintain FAA Class II Medical Certificate
  • 500 hours of Tier III / IV UAS experience while acting as the Pilot in Command
  • Must be able to pass a standard deployment physical and maintain deployment readiness
  • Active DoD security clearance

Preferred Skills/Qualifications:
  • Operational Piccolo Autopilot AVO experience
  • Experience being deployed in support of military ISR UAS operations
  • A strong work ethic and an internal sense of responsibility are highly desired

Education:
  • Associate degree in Aviation Management, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related field required; advanced degree preferred.
  • Equivalent military or civil aviation operational leadership experience may substitute for formal education.

Clearance Level Required: Ability to obtain and maintain a DoW Secret or Top-Secret Clearance as required.
Travel Required: Up to 50%
Working Conditions:
The diversity of work conditions may range from an environment where there is little or no physical discomfort, such as a general office environment, to warehouse and other facilities.
Work performed may be in a harsh climate and often in hazardous situations. While performing the duties of this position, one may regularly be exposed to extreme and austere desert or other environments.
This position will require the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
This position is subject to working conditions peculiar to the particular assignment. (e.g., required to perform work-related travel worldwide and may include hardship and combat areas)
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job:
  • Must have the ability to stoop, stand, climb, and lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
  • Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine.
  • Involves movement between departments, floors, and worksites to facilitate work.

Work Authorization Requirement:
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for current or future employment visa sponsorship.
Hourly Rate: $40.00-$60.00
Hourly rate depends on relevant work experience, education, training, essential skills, and/or other factors such as specialized or high-demand professions. In addition to the annual salary, the position will be eligible for an annual bonus. The pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of salary or annual bonus.
Benefits:
Our benefits are DZYNE'ed for your overall health and financial wellness. DZYNE offers a comprehensive healthcare benefits package. Base dental, vision, life, accident, disability, and other core benefits are fully covered by DZYNE. DZYNE provides paid time off and paid holidays. Additionally, DZYNE offers a 401 (k) plan with an employer match and immediate vesting.
DZYNE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, DZYNE Technologies complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which our company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.
#LI-REMOTE
#LI-ONSITE
Pay Range: $40 - $60 per hour

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