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Contract Uas Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

$95K - $143K/yr

We are seeking an RC & Large Model Aircraft Pilot - UAS External Pilot (Manual LOS Flight) to ... experience, contract affordability, and in consideration of internal parity. Additional ...

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Program Mgr, UAS

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

The Program Manager oversees employees and contract resources engaged in UAS operations across the ... The Program Manager, UAS is also a certified UAS pilot and performs both on-site and remote (beyond ...

KBR

$95K - $143K/yr

Group 1-3 UAS Air Vehicle Internal Pilot KBR's Mission Engineering Division delivers complex ... Contract requires US Citizenship. Applicant selected may be subject to a government security ...

Platform Aerospace

Contract UAV Pilot

Blackstone, VA · On-site

CONTRACT UAV PILOT II-III DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS REPORTS TO: DEPLOYMENT SITE LEAD ... Remote pilot a UAS, following a specific flight plan or modifying flight plans to meet mission ...

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All JobsContract Uas Pilot Jobs

Contract Uas Pilot information

See salary details

$54K

$113.1K

$199.5K

How much do contract uas pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract uas pilot in the United States is $113,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $129,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a demand for drone pilots?

The demand for contract UAS pilots is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, film, and inspection services due to increased use of drone technology. Employers seek pilots with FAA Part 107 certification and skills in operating various drone models, making it a promising field for qualified professionals.

How much do drone pilot contractors make?

Contract UAS pilots typically earn between $25 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Many contractors are paid per flight or project, with annual earnings varying widely based on workload and specialization in industries like agriculture, filmmaking, or inspection services.

How much does Amazon pay drone pilots?

Amazon's drone delivery program employs contract UAS pilots who typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and specific job responsibilities. Compensation may also include benefits such as flexible schedules and training in drone operation and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Contract Uas Pilot vs Uas Operator?

AspectContract Uas PilotUas Operator
CertificationsRemote Pilot Certificate, FAA Part 107Remote Pilot Certificate, FAA Part 107
Work EnvironmentFreelance, project-based, on-demandEmployed by a company or organization, ongoing
Employer UsageClients or contractors hiring pilots for specific missionsOrganizations managing drone operations

Contract Uas Pilots typically work independently on a project basis, holding necessary certifications like the FAA Part 107. Uas Operators often work for companies managing drone fleets or operations. While both roles require similar credentials, Contract Uas Pilots focus on individual assignments, whereas Uas Operators oversee ongoing drone activities within organizations.

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

To thrive as a Contract UAS Pilot, you need a strong understanding of aviation principles, proficiency in piloting unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and typically a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Familiarity with mission planning software, GPS navigation tools, and various UAS platforms is essential for operational efficiency. Attention to detail, strong situational awareness, and effective communication skills help pilots manage risk and coordinate with teams or clients. These skills are critical for ensuring safe, compliant, and successful UAS operations in a variety of environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract UAS Pilots, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Contract UAS Pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing client requirements, operating in diverse environments, and ensuring compliance with evolving aviation regulations. Flexibility and strong communication skills are crucial for adapting to new mission parameters and collaborating with different teams. Staying up-to-date with FAA rules, maintaining detailed flight logs, and proactively addressing technical issues can help pilots deliver reliable results and maintain safety standards.

How much is Walmart paying drone pilots?

Walmart has hired drone pilots for delivery and inventory tasks, with reported pay rates typically ranging from $15 to $25 per hour. Compensation can vary based on experience, location, and the specific responsibilities of the role, which often require FAA Part 107 certification and knowledge of drone operation.

What are Contract UAS Pilots?

Contract UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) Pilots are professionals who operate drones or unmanned aircraft under a contract agreement, rather than as full-time employees. They are often hired for specific projects or periods to conduct aerial surveys, inspections, mapping, or data collection for clients in industries like agriculture, construction, real estate, or public safety. Contract UAS Pilots must typically hold the necessary certifications, such as the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate in the United States, and adhere to all aviation regulations. Their work can vary widely depending on the client's needs and the type of drone operations required.
More about Contract Uas Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Uas Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Contract Uas Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Uas Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Uas Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Uas Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Uas Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Uas Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Uas Pilot jobs are:
Contract Uas Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Uas Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,105 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
UAS Red Team Pilot

UAS Red Team Pilot

CACI International, Inc.

Aberdeen, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: UAS Red Team Pilot
Job Category: Intelligence
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 75%
Type of Travel: Local
* * *
The Opportunity:
As a CACI UAS Red Team Pilot you will be responsible for performing operational responsibilities for COTS UAS fixed-wing and rotary platforms and supporting systems to gather intelligence for mission planning, mission sensor/payload operations, launching, remotely piloting, and recovering remote piloted ground and air vehicle systems. The UAS Pilot will be available and willing to deploy to the CENTCOM AOR for up to 6-12 months at a time rotating with other deployers.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist with DoD UAS system policies and procedures.
  • Aircrew training and document/flight jacket monitoring and updates.
  • Currency requirements in accordance with GFR directives.
  • Responsible for the acquisition, fabrication, modification, programming, and maintenance of multi-rotor and fixed-wing COTS UAS platforms - Group 3 and Turbines, for training and test events.
  • Launches and recovers the air vehicle, performs pre-flight, in flight, and post flight checks.
  • Ability to travel CONUS and OCONUS (to possible conflict areas) on short notice in order to disseminate relevant threat information.
  • Assist with vulnerability site assessments to inform analyst team about possible use of UAS.
  • Coordinate with national and international intelligence agencies to develop data sharing capability, trend analysis and procedures.
  • Plan, coordinate and act as safety officer for flight operations during training and test events.
  • Provide comprehensive technical red-team analysis.
  • Perform all functional duties independently
  • Work and live in a small team environment.

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Experience with DCMA 8210, HQDA 228-24, AR951.
  • Active Secret security clearance with ability to obtain a TS/SCI security clearance.
  • Experience instructing large groups of low and high ranking personnel in a military environment.
  • BA/BS with 0-3yrs experience; or AA/AS and 4 years of experience; or HS/GED and 6 years of experience.
  • Experience with COTS multi-rotor and fixed-wing aircraft, to include hobbyist UAS experience
  • Demonstrate experience in pre-deployment training and knowledge exchange supporting field training exercises (FTX), Validation Exercises (VALEX), and other technical exchange events.
  • Must be able to obtain a Certified FAA UAS Pilot License.
  • Must be able to successfully complete CRC and deploy to CENTCOM theater.
  • Must be able to obtain an Amateur Radio Technician License.
  • Experience with all RPV (land, air, and sea) and ability to design/fabricate with limited instructions or pre-built kits.
  • Ability to research emerging RPV technologies, describe their advantages, and the impact to DoD capabilities.
  • Knowledge of the Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP).
  • Ability to take technical RPV knowledge and inform/instruct others about the technology, capabilities and limitations, and impacts to DoD capabilities.
  • Proficient in utilizing standard MS Office computer applications and intelligence related automation to support analytical efforts and product development.
  • Define and carry out scenarios (in test events or training events) in which RPV technology can be utilized.
  • Ability to understand and interpret customer requirements in order to influence correct use of the RPV technology at technical exchange events or test events.
  • Ability to perform independently while in other locations and interacting with other organizations and military units.
  • Ability to communicate and function effectively in a team environment

What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$75,200 - 158,100 USD
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

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