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Drone Base Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

As the global leader in cyber-takeover counter-drone technology , we design and deliver advanced ... base in these sectors. Specific Duties and Activities: * Sells our advanced solutions by ...

The Flight Monitor will be responsible for real-time monitoring of drone flights, ensuring ... The starting pay for this position is listed below, including the base pay rate plus the highest ...

Prime Air Ground Handler, Amazon Prime Air

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Support daily drone operations by handling and organizing equipment, including batteries and ... The starting pay for this position is listed below, including the base pay rate plus the highest ...

In this role the drone is the threat. What's under test is the CUAS stack - detect, track, identify ... The actual base pay is dependent upon many factors, such as: level, function, training ...

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Hands-on drone experience, including piloting, is a plus * US citizenship & eligibility to obtain secret clearance required. Base Salary Range: $140,000 - $170,000 Benefits: * Flexible working hours

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Showing results 1-20

Drone Base information

See Virginia salary details

$26.3K

$71.5K

$117K

How much do drone base jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone base in Virginia is $71,498.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $84,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone base?

A Drone Base job typically involves piloting drones for various purposes, such as aerial photography, surveying, mapping, or inspections. These jobs can be freelance, contract-based, or full-time positions with companies that utilize drone technology. Pilots may work in industries like real estate, construction, agriculture, or infrastructure inspection. Requirements often include FAA certification (such as Part 107 in the U.S.), experience with drone operation, and knowledge of relevant software.

What are the typical responsibilities and work environment for a drone base operator?

Drone Base Operators are responsible for planning, executing, and monitoring unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flights for purposes like aerial inspections, mapping, photography, or surveying. They often work both outdoors at various sites and indoors for mission planning and data analysis, sometimes traveling to client locations. Collaboration with engineers, surveyors, or project managers is common to ensure data accuracy and mission objectives are met. Roles can be dynamic, requiring adaptability to weather conditions and specific project needs, which keeps the work engaging and offers opportunities to develop expertise in specialized drone applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the drone base position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Base Operator, you typically need proficiency in remote piloting, strong spatial awareness, and an understanding of aviation safety protocols, often supported by FAA Part 107 certification. Familiarity with drone control software, GPS navigation systems, and real-time data collection tools is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators adapt to diverse scenarios and coordinate with teams. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, accurate, and efficient drone operations across various industries.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Base jobs in Virginia?

For Drone Base jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Drone Base job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,498 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

USAF/DoD Sales Executive - Counter-Drone Technology

Great Bay Staffing Group

Mclean, VA

$175K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

$175,000 - $210,000 + Top Benefits & Generous 401K

McLean, VA

The Opportunity

This is a chance to sell technology at the center of one of the most active threats facing DoD today: drone incursions. The company is the global leader in cyber-takeover counter-drone technology, and its team includes veterans of elite military tech units. You'd own new business development for the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps in the counter-UAS (CUAS) space, at a fast-growing start-up where your pipeline and closed deals directly shape the company's growth in this sector.

Why You'll Love This Role

You're not managing an established book of business, you're building one. This role owns discovery, pursuit, and closure of new sales prospects across the USAF, Navy, and Marine Corps, plus system integrator partners. You'll also upsell new capabilities into the customer base you build, giving you a direct hand in expanding accounts over time, not just opening them.

Compensation reflects the seniority this role demands: $175,000-$210,000 base, plus top benefits and a generous 401K match.

Your Day-to-Day
  • Establish and grow relationships with DoD USAF, Navy, and USMC stakeholders and system integrator partners
  • Build, validate, and maintain a pipeline of qualified opportunities
  • Drive deals to closure and identify upsell opportunities with existing customers
  • Track industry trends, market activity, and competitor positioning within the CUAS space
  • Prepare periodic reports and quarterly business reviews for management
  • Represent the company at industry conferences and networking events
  • Generate new opportunities through cold outreach, existing networks, and social media
What We're Looking For
  • 7+ years of experience successfully executing and closing sales campaigns in relevant defense markets
  • Established relationships within the USAF (USN/USMC) CUAS ecosystem
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to lead sales engagements and meetings
  • Ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and adjust quickly in a fast-moving environment
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Willingness to travel frequently (~50%)
  • Based in or willing to work from McLean, VA (no remote, no relocation assistance, no visa sponsorship)
Why Candidates Say Yes
  • Ground-floor role at a fast-growing start-up with real DoD traction
  • Direct ownership of pipeline and closing, not a supporting sales role
  • Work alongside veterans of elite military tech units on a mission with immediate operational relevance
  • Strong, clearly defined compensation for the seniority required
Ready to Apply?

If you know the USAF, Navy, and Marine Corps CUAS landscape and you're ready to build something rather than maintain it, this is worth a conversation.

Great Bay Staffing represents candidates with complete confidentiality. Your resume will never be shared with a client without your knowledge and approval.