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Contract Uas Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This role operates at the intersection of tactical UAS operations, autonomy testing, and rapid ... contract requirements, and candidate qualifications, such as education, experience, skills, and ...

... review contract proposals, and prepare/present program briefings. * Fleet & Configuration ... Conduct UAS operations as an INL/A remote pilot; pursue Remote Pilot Instructor (RPI) certification.

DEPLOYMENT SITE LEAD EMPLOYMENT TYPE: FULL-TIME OR CONTRACT TRAVEL REQUIRED: 100% OCONUS CLEARANCE ... Remote pilot a UAS, following a specific flight plan or modifying flight plans to meet mission ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Uas Pilot information

See salary details

$54K

$113.1K

$199.5K

How much do contract uas pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 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.

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a contract UAS pilot?

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 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.

What is a contract UAS pilot?

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:
Infographic showing various Contract Uas Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full 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.

RC & Large Model Aircraft Pilot with Security Clearance

KBR

Southern Md Facility, MD • On-site

$95K - $143K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 441 rated engineering


Job description

Title:
RC & Large Model Aircraft Pilot KBR's Mission Engineering Division delivers complex technical solutions and expert support to the U.S. Department of War, specializing in modeling and simulation, cyber transformation, air vehicle mission integration, and lifecycle support. As a trusted partner with a proven history in mission technology, KBR collaborates closely with clients to develop innovative and effective solutions. With a strong ethical framework, KBR prioritizes data security, privacy, and responsible information management to ensure mission success. We are seeking an RC & Large Model Aircraft Pilot - UAS External Pilot (Manual LOS Flight) to conduct manual, line-of-sight (LOS) flight operations for Group 1 & 2 unmanned aircraft systems in a test and operational environment. This role emphasizes hands-on stick-and-rudder flying, including manual takeoffs, pattern work, and landings, rather than automated or waypoint-based mission execution. The ideal candidate is comfortable controlling fixed-wing or small UAS from an external vantage point using traditional RC-style transmitters or manual ground control interfaces, with a strong ability to maintain orientation, manage energy, and execute stable approaches in varying conditions. Unlike many modern UAS roles, this position requires direct manual control of the aircraft rather than reliance on GPS waypoint navigation or automated flight modes. Candidates with radio control (RC), giant-scale model aircraft, aerobatic, or other manual flight backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position supports Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO FOUR (UX-24) at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD), Webster Field, MD. As part of the world's largest independent flight test organization, supporting both US Government and commercial agencies, you will be joining a highly talented and experienced aircrew services team that has provided over 40 continuous years of aircrew support for NAVAIR. As a long-term incumbent and leader in test aircrew expertise, the selected applicant will work within the Counter UAS and Unmanned Autonomy Robotics Technology teams composed of government, military, contractor, and industry personnel. Roles & Responsibilities: * Operate Group 1-2 UAS and/or RC equivalent aircraft utilizing a transmitter/control box/tablet generally within line of sight of the air vehicle. * Execute ground launch and recovery activities, including support equipment setup, aircraft staging, and post-flight safing actions when not actively controlling an aircraft.
* Operate remote-controlled fixed-wing aircraft and/or multirotor aircraft using a handheld transmitter/controller or control interface, typically within visual line of sight, to meet daily test objectives.
* Serves as a UAS Pilot and provide all aspects of project officer duties for the Counter UAS and Unmanned Autonomy Robotics Technology programs, including operation of various air vehicles, instructor duties for new unqualified aircrew, and maintenance and repair of assigned UAS.
* This position may include supervisory duties. Basic Qualifications: * Education: High School Graduate.
* Experience: Experience flying remote-controlled fixed-wing aircraft and/or multirotor aircraft (hobby, club, competitive, or professional). Certain military UAS may also apply.
* Clearance & Citizenship: Secret Clearance or ability to obtain and maintain. Must be a U.S. citizen.
* Certifications/Designations Required: Must be able to obtain and maintain an FAA Third-Class Medical Certificate. Preferred Qualifications: * An Associate's degree or higher in a UAS, aviation, or engineering-related field is highly desired. Formal education in test and evaluation is highly desired.
* 500 hours operating Group 1 and 2 UAS or equivalent-sized model aircraft is desired. Two years of RDT&E flight test experience is desired.
* Demonstrated familiarity with prototype autopilot systems (e.g., Pixhawk or similar), Ground Control Stations, and UAS integration and modification is highly desired.
* Past designation as an FAA Commercial Pilot or Military Pilot/UAS Air Vehicle Pilot by the U.S. Armed Forces is desired.
* Familiarity with operations from Webster Outlying Field and UAS operations in the surrounding airspace is highly desired.
* FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is desired. Applicant selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Basic Compensation: $95,400 - $143,600. The salary range posted is based on the national average. The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's location, knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experience, contract affordability, and in consideration of internal parity. Additional Compensation: KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short term incentives, long term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. Benefits: KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include a 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development. Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together. KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998