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Drone Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

The FPV Drone Technician amp; Assembler is responsible for the assembly, configuration, programming ... As a Federal Government Contractor, T3i is required to strictly adhere to federally mandated drug ...

Drone Technician

Bowling Green, VA ยท On-site

$36.40K - $46.90K/yr

As the Drone Operator, you will utilize your skills to pilot unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and ... contractor is hired) Prior experience operating drones/UAS in a professional or military ...

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Drone Contractor information

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$9

$31

$73

How much do drone contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 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 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 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 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Drone Contractor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Locum Tenens, 11% Full Time, and 78% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $65,308 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Drone Operator

Seventh Dimension

Fort Liberty, NC โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Position: Drone Operator

Type: Part-Time/ Contract

Location: Fort Bragg, NC

Position Summary: We are seeking experienced Drone Operators to perform small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) flight operations in support of live training exercises. In this role, you will operate contractor and/or government-owned sUAS to achieve designated training objectives while maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols and FAA regulations. Comprehensive testing will be conducted to ensure proficiency for safe and effective drone operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Operate drones during training exercises to simulate different scenarios.
  • Follow scripted roles and mission objectives as directed by training coordinators.
  • Conduct pre-flight checks to ensure equipment readiness.
    • Ensure sUAS is equipped with a Hover or Return to Home (RTH) function.
    • Verify the sUAS is equipped with a Tagging, Tracking, Locating (TTL) device.
    • Conduct a thorough inspection of the sUAS and ensure compliance with the current Airworthiness Release (AWR).
  • Maintain situational awareness and adhere to safety protocols during exercises.
  • Operators must comply with applicable DoD, FAA, and Army regulations, including the Airspace Authorization and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for UAS Operations in the National Airspace System (NAS).

Required Skills and Abilities:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate with a Small UAS Rating.
  • Must pass a background check.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.
  • Ability to follow instructions and adapt to dynamic training environments.
  • Basic technical aptitude; prior drone experience is required.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow safety procedures.
  • Ability to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions.
  • Flexible schedule; may include evenings or weekends.
  • Must be medically qualified to operate sUAS
  • Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: While performing the duties of this position, the individual is regularly required to talk, listen, and write. The individual frequently is required to use foot/ankle motions, hands or fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The individual is required to stand, walk, sit; and reach with hands and arms. The individual must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to be the best qualified for the position and successfully perform the functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made (if possible) to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

Company Background: Seventh Dimension LLC provides focused customer support in two core competencies Training & Support Services. Since 2015, we have provided customers with flexible, adaptable, and creative approaches to solving complex problems. We are a proven prime contractor that understands future operating environments, fiscal constraints, and current force requirements. We are a SDVOSB in North Carolina with a TS Facility Clearance, Secret storage and a DCAA compliant accounting system.

Disclaimer: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an at will relationship.

Seventh Dimension, LLC is a Veteran friendly employer and provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability status, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws.