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Drone Contractor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Kalos Consulting, Inc.

Contract Photographer

Gaylord, MI · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

... video, drone, 3D tours, and floor plans to real estate professionals throughout the Northern ... This is a part-time independent contractor role with flexible scheduling and strong earning ...

Mettle Ops

Director of Finance

Madison Heights, MI

... contractor with multiple operating subsidiaries spanning engineering services, production & kitting, procurement, and commercial drone sales. We are seeking a Director of Finance to serve as the ...

Mettle Ops

Director of Finance

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

... contractor with multiple operating subsidiaries spanning engineering services, production & kitting, procurement, and commercial drone sales. We are seeking a Director of Finance to serve as the ...

Aston Carter

Finance Director

Madison Heights, MI

$165K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... contractor as the Director of Finance, leading financial operations across multiple subsidiaries in engineering services, production, procurement, and commercial drone sales. This leadership role ...

Aston Carter

Finance Director

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... contractor as the Director of Finance, leading financial operations across multiple subsidiaries in engineering services, production, procurement, and commercial drone sales. This leadership role ...

Fessler & Bowman Inc

GPS / Survey Technician

Holly, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... contractor to a top 100 Commercial Concrete Contractor recognized across the nation. Keeping ... This role will complete drone flights to verify as built conditions and set up base stations for ...

Fessler & Bowman Inc

GPS / Survey Technician

Holly, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... contractor to a top 100 Commercial Concrete Contractor recognized across the nation. Keeping ... This role will complete drone flights to verify as built conditions and set up base stations for ...

Fessler & Bowman

GPS / Survey Technician

Holly, MI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... contractor to a top 100 Commercial Concrete Contractor recognized across the nation. Keeping ... This role will complete drone flights to verify as built conditions and set up base stations for ...

Fessler & Bowman

GPS / Survey Technician

Holly, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... contractor to a top 100 Commercial Concrete Contractor recognized across the nation. Keeping ... This role will complete drone flights to verify as built conditions and set up base stations for ...

All JobsDrone Contractor JobsDrone Contractor Jobs in Michigan

Drone Contractor information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$27

$64

How much do drone contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone contractor in Michigan is $27.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.41 and $33.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Drone Contractor jobs in Michigan?

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Drone Contractor jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Drone Contractor job openings:

Drone Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Contractor job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,352 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Contract Photographer

Kalos Consulting, Inc. (Next Door Photos)

Gaylord, MI

$25 - $45/hr

Part-time, Contractor

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

About Next Door Photos

Next Door Photos (NDP) is a fast-growing real estate media company providing photography, video, drone, 3D tours, and floor plans to real estate professionals throughout the Northern Michigan area.

We are committed to delivering not only exceptional media, but an exceptional client experience. Our Media Pros are professional, reliable, and take pride in their craft.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dependable and skilled photographer/videographer to join our Northern MI team as a Media Pro.

Applicants must live in northern Michigan, above US10 and Gladwin.

This is a part-time independent contractor role with flexible scheduling and strong earning potential based on availability and product certifications.

You capture the media — we handle scheduling, editing, delivery, and client billing.

  • Capture high-quality real estate photography
  • Capture video walkthroughs and drone media (if certified)
  • Follow NDP shooting standards and workflow
  • Professionally interact with Realtors and homeowners
  • Travel to properties throughout the Northern MI area
  • Upload all media by 8:00 PM on the day of the shoot
  • Maintain up-to-date availability via Google Calendar
  • Communicate clearly with clients and Local Owner

Media Pros may capture up to 6 properties per day. Each shoot typically lasts 40–90 minutes.

Compensation

  • Paid per service (photos, video, aerial, floor plan, etc.)
  • Typical hourly equivalent: $25–$45/hour
  • Additional compensation for extended travel
  • Increased earning potential with additional product certifications and expanded availability

Qualifications

  • Professional photography or videography experience required
  • Real estate photography experience preferred (not required — training provided)
  • FAA Part 107 Drone License preferred OR willingness to obtain certification
  • Strong communication and customer service skills
  • Reliable transportation
  • Ability to work independently and manage schedule
  • Professional appearance and punctuality required

Required Equipment

  • DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
  • Wide Angle Lens: APS-C: 10–12mm OR Full Frame: 16–18mm
  • Smart Phone Gimbal
  • External (off-camera) flash
  • Tripod with ball head
  • High-speed internet
  • Additional specialty equipment may be provided by the Local Owner as needed.

Work Location

On the road — servicing properties throughout Northern MI and surrounding areas.

Schedule

  • Flexible
  • Availability during weekday business hours is preferred

How to Apply

Please submit:

  • Resume
  • Portfolio link (required)
  • Confirmation of equipment owned
  • Confirmation of Part 107 status (if applicable)
  • Brief note explaining why you would be a strong fit for this role

Apply