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Drone Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mountain Ascent Media

Freelance Photographer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$125/hr

Fly drone aerials capturing exterior overview, lot context, and neighborhood shots per MAM's aerial ... Obtain LAANC airspace authorization before every shoot in controlled airspace using FAA DroneZone ...

JET Systems

Be Seen First

UAS INTEGRATION ENGINEER - JUNIOR

Lexington Park, MD · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

Design, assemble, modify, and test drone airframes, propulsion systems, payload mounts, landing gear, enclosures, and related mechanical hardware. * Integrate motors, electronic speed controllers ...

Performance Drone Works

Electrical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$112K - $137K/yr

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used ... This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled ...

Performance Drone Works

Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$115K - $155K/yr

Company Overview Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic ... This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled ...

Performance Drone Works

Staff Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$185K - $225K/yr

Company Overview Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic ... This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled ...

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Drone Controller information

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$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do drone controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Drone Controller job?

A Drone Controller operates and navigates drones for various applications, such as surveillance, mapping, deliveries, or inspections. They are responsible for ensuring safe flights, adhering to regulations, and troubleshooting technical issues. Depending on the industry, they may also analyze data collected by drones to support decision-making. Training, certification, and knowledge of aviation laws are often required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Drone Controller position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Controller, you need strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and experience with remote piloting, usually supported by a relevant license such as a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Proficiency in drone flight software, GPS navigation systems, and real-time monitoring tools is essential. Effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to stay calm under pressure help distinguish top candidates. These skills ensure safe and efficient operations, compliance with regulations, and optimal collaboration with ground teams or clients.

Do drone operators make good money?

Drone controllers, or drone operators, can earn a wide range of salaries depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions may pay around $50,000 annually, while experienced operators working in specialized fields like aerial photography or inspection can earn over $100,000. Certifications and skills in operating advanced drone equipment can also influence earning potential.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a Drone Controller?

As a Drone Controller, your daily tasks often include preparing and inspecting drones before flights, planning and executing flight missions, adhering to airspace regulations, and capturing or analyzing aerial data as required by the project. You may also be responsible for maintaining detailed flight logs, coordinating with team members or clients to meet mission objectives, and troubleshooting any technical issues during operations. Depending on the employer, you might work in sectors such as surveying, agriculture, cinematography, or emergency services, each with unique operational demands. Collaboration with field technicians, data analysts, or project managers is common to ensure the accuracy and safety of every mission.

Is drone piloting a good career?

Drone controllers operate unmanned aerial vehicles for various applications such as photography, surveying, and inspection. The field offers opportunities in industries like agriculture, construction, and media, often requiring certifications and technical skills. Job prospects depend on industry demand and regional regulations, with some roles offering flexible schedules and remote work options.

Is there a demand for drone operators?

The demand for drone controllers is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, photography, and inspection services. Employers seek certified operators skilled in flight safety, navigation, and data collection, with job opportunities increasing as drone technology becomes more integrated into various sectors.

How much is Walmart paying drone pilots?

Walmart has hired drone pilots for delivery and inventory tasks, with pay rates typically ranging from $15 to $25 per hour depending on experience and location. Drone pilots often need certifications such as Part 107 and may work flexible hours to support retail operations.
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Drone Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Controller job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.
Head of Electrical Engineering

Head of Electrical Engineering

Performance Drone Works

Denver, CO • On-site

$225K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.
You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country.
What You'll Do
  • Lead and develop PDW's Electrical Engineering organization, from new college grads to Principal Engineers.
  • Drive execution of complex electrical systems from architecture through production and field deployment.
  • Guide architecture decisions involving embedded electronics, power systems, communications hardware, sensors, high-speed digital designs and high-performance electronic speed controllers.
  • Partner with Mechanical, Software, Systems, Product, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to deliver integrated products.
  • Establish technical direction, engineering standards, and development processes across electrical engineering programs.
  • Lead technical reviews, design reviews, and engineering risk assessments across multiple programs.
  • Build organizational capability through hiring, mentoring, performance management, and career development.
  • Develop resource plans, staffing strategies, and organizational structures to support company growth.
  • Support manufacturing scale-up, quality initiatives, and new product introduction activities.
  • Help build and scale PDW's Denver engineering hub into a world-class hardware development organization.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field.
  • 10+ years of experience developing complex electronic hardware systems.
  • 4+ years of engineering leadership experience managing technical teams and senior engineers.
  • Demonstrated experience successfully leading hardware products from concept development through production.
  • Strong background in electrical system architecture, PCB design, embedded electronics, comms, power and motor control.
  • Experience participating in cross-functional engineering efforts in fast-paced product development environments.
  • Experience establishing engineering processes, technical standards, and development methodologies.
  • Proven ability to recruit, mentor, and develop high-performing engineering teams.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to influence technical and business stakeholders.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Preferred
  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field.
  • Lead electrical engineering organizations within consumer electronics, aerospace, robotics, autonomous systems, or defense industries.
  • Experience scaling engineering teams through periods of rapid organizational growth.
  • Experience developing highly integrated electronic systems incorporating compute, sensing, communications, and power subsystems.
  • Familiarity with Altium Designer and modern PCB development workflows.
  • Experience with AS9100, ISO9001, or similar quality management systems
  • Experience supporting new product introduction, production ramp and high-volume manufacturing.
  • Hands-on experience with UAVs, robotics, aircraft systems, or autonomous platforms.
  • Experience supporting products deployed in demanding operational or field environments.

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office or manufacturing equipment as well as various electronic power supplies and test equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties.
Work Environment
This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. This position may require working outside of core business hours as needed to support business and operational requirements.
Benefits
PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:
  • Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
  • Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
  • Paid Parental Leave.
  • A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
  • On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.
  • Employer provided life insurance.
  • Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
  • Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement
PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The pay range for this role is:
225,000 - 275,000 USD per year (DF02)

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