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Drone Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This contractor will inspect structures for major insurance carriers for both underwriting and claims purposes. This contractor will ensure the safe and effective operation of the drone while ...

Drone Operator Type: Part-Time/ Contract Location: Fort Bragg, NC Position Summary : We are seeking ... In this role, you will operate contractor and/or government-owned sUAS to achieve designated ...

Drone Operator Type: Part-Time/ Contract Location: Fort Bragg, NC Position Summary : We are seeking ... In this role, you will operate contractor and/or government-owned sUAS to achieve designated ...

Drone Operator Type: Part-Time/ Contract Location: Fort Bragg, NC Position Summary : We are seeking ... In this role, you will operate contractor and/or government-owned sUAS to achieve designated ...

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Drone Contractor information

See salary details

$9

$31

$73

How much do drone contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone contractor in the United States is $31.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $38.46 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 are Drone Contractors?

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, and why are they important?

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 cities are hiring for Drone Contractor jobs? Cities with the most Drone Contractor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Contractor jobs? The most popular types of Drone Contractor jobs are:
What states have the most Drone Contractor jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Contractor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Contractor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Contractor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Drone Contractor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 72% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,308 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

$16 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


DeAngelo Contracting Services rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 217 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Company Description

DCS is a family owned and operated business with treating all employees like family at the core of our values. Our employees provide innovative, safe, and high-quality infrastructure/maintenance contracting services to State DOTs, railroads, and other commercial/residential customers across the entire United States. Employees receive generous compensation packages, employee engagement events & career development programs, just to name a few of the perks of being part of the DCS family!

To provide quality service, we need top-of-the-line employees. That is why we offer great compensation, awesome benefits, and a work environment worth bragging about! 

Job Description

Job Responsibilities:

  • Perform drone spray applications in an industrial environment
  • Operate in full compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and internal safety guidelines
  • Provide demonstrations to customers as requested
  • Work on eventual launch into DCS field operations which will require substantial travel throughout the US based upon customer acceptance of program
  • Conduct routine drone maintenance, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure optimal drone performance
  • Evaluate job sites for flight feasibility, safety risks, and operational efficiency.
  • Maintain professional communications with customers and other stakeholders

Drone Operation Requirements:

  • Demonstrated experience in operating drones, particularly in agricultural or chemical application roles.
  • Proficiency with drone control software and flight planning tools.
  • Capability to perform comprehensive pre-flight inspections, plan flight paths, and conduct missions safely and efficiently.
  • Familiarity with equipment calibration, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting processes.
Qualifications

Additional Skills & Attributes:

  • Exceptional attention to detail, especially regarding safety protocols and regulatory compliance.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Interest in research & development and creating processes
  • Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to new technologies and methodologies.
  • Spray experience is preferred

Licenses & Certifications:

  • Possess a FAA Part 107 Commercial Remote Pilot License or be able to pass the exam within 1 month of hire.
  • When applying herbicides, the pilot also typically needs an FAA Part 137 certificate, which is for agricultural aircraft operations.  DeAngelo Contracting Services currently has this certificate in place
  • A Commercial Applicator's License is preferred (company-provided training is available if not currently certified).  Multi state licensing will be eventually required for commercial applications.

Physical & Driving Requirements:

  • Hold a valid driver's license with at least 5 years of clean driving history.
  • Ability to travel up to 3 weeks at a time as well as operate a truck with trailer.
  • Ability to lift between 50-60 pounds.

Pay rate will be dependent upon applicant background and experience. 

Additional Information

DeAngelo Contracting Services offers competitive benefit packages to all employees. This includes but is not limited to, company sponsored medical, dental, vision & life insurance policies, per diems for time spent away from home, Paid time off, paid holidays and significant amounts of career development opportunities just to name a few! 

Come be a part of the DeAngelo family, today! 

DCS is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all hiring and employment regulations. In the event an ADA accommodation is needed, DCS is happy to help all employees achieve gainful employment in an atmosphere where they are appreciated and respected. DCS offers subcontracting services to government agencies as such, candidates may be subject to pre employment screenings such as criminal background checks, pre-employment, post-accident & reasonable impairment drug screenings, motor vehicle record checks, etc. as such, DCS complies with all federal and state regulatory guidelines including the FCRA. Â