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Drone Camera Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Help set up and calibrate sensors, cameras, and payload equipment. Quality Assurance ... Support preparation of technical documentation, checklists, and standard operating procedures.

R&D Test Engineer, Senior

Austin, TX · On-site

$90 - $115/hr

This is not a camera operator role; it is a test engineering position where high-speed imaging is ... drone systems. Essential Duties Test Planning & Execution * Plan and execute high-speed imaging ...

... cameras and compute to scan locations and report inventory data as equipment moves through the ... It's a technically demanding product line operating at the intersection of embedded systems ...

SkyCam Operator

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

SkyCam Operator Department: Production Skycam Business Unit: OSG Location: Fort Worth, Texas ... camera/ pan/tilt head operation, aircraft operation and control, drone operation and control, and ...

SkyCam Operator

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

SkyCam Operator Department: Production Skycam Business Unit: OSG Location: Fort Worth, Texas ... camera/ pan/tilt head operation, aircraft operation and control, drone operation and control, and ...

Proven experience as a videographer, camera operator, or similar role * Proficiency with video ... Drone pilot certification or experience (preferred, not required) Compensation: * Competitive pay ...

Proven experience as a videographer, camera operator, or similar role * Proficiency with video ... Drone pilot certification or experience (preferred, not required) Compensation * Competitive pay ...

Proven experience as a videographer, camera operator, or similar role * Proficiency with video ... Drone pilot certification or experience (preferred, not required) Compensation: * Competitive pay ...

Proven experience as a videographer, camera operator, or similar role * Proficiency with video ... Drone pilot certification or experience (preferred, not required) Compensation: * Competitive pay ...

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Drone Camera Operator information

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$13

$28

$62

How much do drone camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone camera operator in the United States is $28.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone camera operator?

A Drone Camera Operator is a professional who pilots unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) equipped with cameras to capture photos or video footage from the air. They are responsible for planning flight paths, ensuring safety, complying with regulations, and operating the camera equipment to get the best shots. Drone Camera Operators work in various fields such as film and television, real estate, surveying, and event coverage. They must have technical skills in both piloting drones and using camera equipment, as well as knowledge of laws governing drone use.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone camera operator?

To thrive as a Drone Camera Operator, you need expertise in aerial videography, piloting skills, and a solid understanding of drone regulations, often supported by an FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent. Familiarity with drone control systems, camera equipment, and editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong spatial awareness are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, high-quality footage capture and compliance with legal requirements in various filming environments.

What are some typical challenges a drone camera operator faces on the job?

Drone Camera Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and managing battery life during shoots. Additionally, coordinating with directors, camera teams, and other crew members is essential to capture the desired footage while maintaining safety. Staying updated on the latest drone technology and troubleshooting technical issues on the fly are also key aspects of the role.
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What job categories do people searching Drone Camera Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Camera Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Drone Camera Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,583 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Drone Technician

ZenaDrone Inc.

Arizona City, AZ • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Assemble, disassemble, and perform routine maintenance on drone hardware components.

  • Support flight operations by preparing, launching, recovering, and monitoring drone systems during flights.

  • Verify quality standards of drone systems, maintain documentation, and report hardware issues.


Job description

About Us


ZenaTech (Nasdaq: ZENA | FSE: 49Q) is a technology company specializing in AI drones, Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS, and quantum computing solutions for mission-critical business applications. Since 2017, the company has leveraged its software development expertise and expanded its drone design and manufacturing capabilities through ZenaDrone to innovate and enhance customer inspection, monitoring, safety, security, compliance, and surveying processes. ZenaTech serves over 100 enterprise software customers in law enforcement, government, and industrial sectors, with drones used in agriculture, defense, and logistics industries. The company has offices in North America, Europe, and the UAE.


Job Overview

ZenaTech is seeking a Drone Technician to join our growing Mesa, AZ operations team. This is an entry-level, hands-on role focused on the assembly, maintenance, inspection, and field support of drone hardware and systems. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, eager to learn, and passionate about UAV technology.


Key Responsibilities

Hardware Assembly & Maintenance

  • Assemble and disassemble drone hardware components under the guidance of senior engineers.
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance, cleaning, and inspection of drone systems.
  • Replace or repair faulty components including motors, propellers, ESCs, and frames.
  • Maintain an organized inventory of spare parts, tools, and equipment.
  • Document all maintenance activities, part replacements, and repair outcomes.

Flight Operations Support

  • Assist with pre-flight and post-flight hardware checks and safety inspections.
  • Support test flight operations by preparing, launching, and recovering drone systems.
  • Monitor drone performance during flights and report anomalies or issues.
  • Help set up and calibrate sensors, cameras, and payload equipment.

Quality Assurance & Documentation

  • Verify that all assembled or repaired drone systems meet quality standards before deployment.
  • Maintain accurate logs of flight hours, maintenance schedules, and equipment condition.
  • Assist with tracking and reporting defects or recurring hardware issues.
  • Support preparation of technical documentation, checklists, and standard operating procedures.

Safety & Compliance

  • Follow all FAA regulations, company safety policies, and site-specific safety requirements.
  • Participate in safety briefings and adhere to safe work practices at all times.
  • Identify and report potential hazards, near-misses, or safety concerns to supervisors.
  • Contribute to a culture of safety and accountability within the team.

Team Collaboration

  • Work closely with drone engineers, software teams, and field operators.
  • Communicate clearly and proactively on the status of assigned tasks and equipment.
  • Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Support other operational needs as directed by supervisors.


Qualifications

Required

  • High school diploma or GED (Associate's degree or technical certification a plus).
  • Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with tools, electronics, and hardware.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
  • Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Outlook).
  • Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs and work in outdoor environments.
  • Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced, technology-driven environment.


Preferred

  • Knowledge on FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
  • Familiarity with basic electronics, soldering, or wiring.
  • Prior work in a manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, or technical support role.
  • Experience with inventory management or equipment tracking systems.


"We are an equal opportunity employer committed to employment equity utilizing hiring practices on merit and business needs. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities and all others of legally protected status."