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Drone Contractor Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

MasTec

Modeling Technology Manager

Tempe, AZ · On-site

... contractor, subcontractor and manufacturer/producer of aggregate and asphalt rubber binder. Our ... Drone and reality capture technologies * Experience with GPS machine control and construction ...

MWH

VDC Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

MWH is a leading water and wastewater treatment-focused general contractor with a rich history ... Support project sites with drone flight requirements and associated deliverables. FAA Part 107 ...

MWH

VDC Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

MWH is a leading water and wastewater treatment-focused general contractor with a rich history ... Support project sites with drone flight requirements and associated deliverables. FAA Part 107 ...

MWH

VDC Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

MWH is a leading water and wastewater treatment-focused general contractor with a rich history ... Support project sites with drone flight requirements and associated deliverables. FAA Part 107 ...

MWH

VDC Engineer - MWH

Phoenix, AZ

$75K - $115K/yr

MWH is a leading water and wastewater treatment-focused general contractor in the US with a rich ... Experience with reality capture tools and practices (laser scanning, drone data capture, and/or ...

MWH

VDC Engineer - MWH

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

MWH is a leading water and wastewater treatment-focused general contractor in the US with a rich ... Experience with reality capture tools and practices (laser scanning, drone data capture, and/or ...

MWH

VDC Engineer - MWH

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

MWH is a leading water and wastewater treatment-focused general contractor in the US with a rich ... Experience with reality capture tools and practices (laser scanning, drone data capture, and/or ...

Kastle Systems

Electronic Security Installer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$50K - $57K/yr

... anti-drone technologies, and more. We excel in design, project management, commissioning, and ... Communicates with customers, customer representatives, contractors and Kastle staff as necessary to ...

i2G Systems

Electronic Security Installer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$50K - $57K/yr

... anti-drone technologies, and more. We excel in design, project management, commissioning, and ... Communicates with customers, customer representatives, contractors and Kastle staff as necessary to ...

i2G Systems

Electronic Security Installer

Phoenix, AZ

$50K - $57K/yr

... anti-drone technologies, and more. We excel in design, project management, commissioning, and ... Communicates with customers, customer representatives, contractors and Kastle staff as necessary to ...

Extra Space

Facility Service Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Selects and supervises vendors and contractors. * Develops scope of work documents for projects ... Will need FAA Drone Pilot Certification within 90 days of the role (cost of materials will be ...

SAIC

RTC-AZ, Remote Pilot Operator

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking Full-time, Remote Pilot ... The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.

New

Kastle Systems

Electronic Security Installer

Phoenix, AZ

$50K - $57K/yr

... anti-drone technologies, and more. We excel in design, project management, commissioning, and ... Communicates with customers, customer representatives, contractors and Kastle staff as necessary to ...

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Drone Contractor information

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$71

How much do drone contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone contractor in Arizona is $30.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.04 and $37.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone contractor?

Drone contractors are professionals or companies hired to operate drones for various commercial purposes, such as aerial photography, surveying, mapping, inspections, agriculture, and more. They provide specialized services using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and are typically certified and comply with aviation regulations. Drone contractors often work on a project basis, offering expertise in data collection, analysis, and safe drone operation for clients across industries.

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

To thrive as a Drone Contractor, you need expertise in drone piloting, aerial photography or data collection, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations, often supported by an FAA Part 107 certification. Familiarity with drone flight software, mapping tools, and image processing systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients set top contractors apart. These skills ensure safe operations, high-quality deliverables, and successful client relationships in a rapidly evolving field.

What are some common challenges faced by drone contractors when working on client projects?

Drone contractors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex airspace regulations, managing weather-related delays, and ensuring data security for sensitive client information. Additionally, coordinating with clients to clearly define project requirements and deliverables can be demanding, especially when expectations differ. Staying updated on evolving technology and maintaining equipment are also key aspects to manage for successful project completion.

What is the difference between Drone Contractor vs Drone Pilot?

AspectDrone ContractorDrone Pilot
Credentials/CertificationsOften requires FAA Part 107 certification, business licenses, and insuranceTypically requires FAA Part 107 certification, may not need business licenses
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed or contracted work, multiple clients, project-basedEmployed or contracted, operating drones for specific missions
Employer/Industry UsageProvides services to various industries like real estate, agriculture, filmPerforms drone flights for clients or employers in similar industries
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

The main difference is that a Drone Contractor typically manages their own business, handling multiple clients and projects, while a Drone Pilot usually works as an individual operator performing drone flights for clients. Both roles require FAA Part 107 certification, but the contractor often handles additional responsibilities like licensing, insurance, and business management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Contractor jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Drone Contractor jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Drone Contractor jobs in Arizona?

For Drone Contractor jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Contractor jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Contractor jobs in Arizona are:

Drone Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Contractor job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,406 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Land Surveyor RLS - Experienced RLS w/ Drone

COOPER AERIAL SURVEYS CO

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Land Surveyor | RLS w/Drone License – Phoenix, AZ (Full-Time)

Cooper Aerial Surveys is an Arizona-based aerial mapping and land surveying firm seeking an experienced Registered Land Surveyor (RLS) with drone/UAS experience to join our Phoenix team. This is a full-time, in-office/field position for someone who knows their way around real projects, can operate independently, and takes pride in doing things right.

This role involves fieldwork and project support on ALTA, Topographic, Construction Staking, Boundary, and aerial mapping projects. The ideal candidate is comfortable both in the field and around technology — including drone operations, survey equipment, and coordination with project teams. You’ll often work independently but also collaborate with crews, pilots, CAD staff, and clients. We’re looking for someone reliable, professional, and easy to work with — competence and attitude both matter here.

Requirements

  • Active Arizona Registered Land Surveyor (RLS) license preferred (or ability to obtain Arizona reciprocity)
  • FAA Part 107 Drone License required
  • 5+ years of land surveying field experience
  • 3+ years flying Drones for survey work
  • Experience with drone/UAS data collection and mission planning
  • Ability to communicate clearly with superintendents, contractors, clients, and project teams
  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD Civil 3D (required)
  • Trimble Business Center experience is a plus
  • Strong understanding of land surveying techniques, principles, boundary law, and survey standards
  • Experience operating GPS, robotic total stations, and related survey equipment
  • Proven work history, strong work ethic, and team-first mindset
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage your own work
  • Having your own equipment is a plus (if compatible with our resources)

Equipment & Training

Cooper Aerial uses Trimble robotic and GPS equipment along with drone/UAS platforms for aerial mapping and data collection. Experience with Trimble workflows, photogrammetry, LiDAR, or aerial mapping is a plus, but we’re willing to train the right person with a strong surveying background and willingness to learn.

Company Description

Cooper Aerial Surveys Co has been setting the standard in mapping and land surveying since 1966. We’re a client-focused firm known for delivering accurate, high-quality work on complex projects—and doing it consistently. Our team of 40+ professionals across multiple locations nationwide includes some of the most skilled and experienced people in the aerial mapping and survey industry.

What truly sets Cooper Aerial apart is our team. We hire smart, capable people and trust them to do great work. That experience shows up in our deliverables, which are recognized for their quality, reliability, and attention to detail. We serve clients worldwide and have built our reputation on excellence, strong relationships, and staying ahead of the curve as mapping technology continues to evolve.

If you care about quality and want to be part of a team known for its reputation and results, you’ll fit in at Cooper Aerial.