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Drone Gis Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mariana Minerals

Drone Operator

Moab, UT · On-site

The Drone Operator ensures all drone missions are executed in accordance with applicable aviation ... Knowledge of aerial surveying, photogrammetry, GIS, LiDAR, or mapping technologies preferred.

City of Republic

GIS Specialist

Republic, MO · On-site

$59K - $81K/yr

The GIS Specialist supports employees using desktop, web, mobile, and field GIS tools and may ... operating requirements. Process, review, organize, document, and publish drone imagery and ...

Tex-Air Drone

Be Seen First

Drone Pilot & Data Specialist

Amarillo, TX · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

Drone Pilot & Data Specialist Travel: Regular travel across TX, OK, and NM Position Overview This ... operating DJI enterprise or agricultural platforms. * Background in photogrammetry, LiDAR, GIS, CAD ...

City of Republic, MO

GIS Specialist

Republic, MO · On-site

$59K - $81K/yr

The GIS Specialist supports employees using desktop, web, mobile, and field GIS tools and may ... operating requirements. * Process, review, organize, document, and publish drone imagery and ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Seattle, WA

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

New York, NY · On-site

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Dallas, TX · On-site

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Seattle, WA

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Miami, FL

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL · On-site

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Dallas, TX

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone ... Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications. * Previous experience in (e.g., construction ...

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Drone Gis Operator information

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$79.5K

$120.5K

$179.5K

How much do drone gis operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone gis operator in the United States is $120,527.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $134,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone GIS operator?

Drone GIS Operators are professionals who use drones equipped with cameras and sensors to collect geospatial data, which is then processed and analyzed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software. They play a key role in mapping, surveying, and monitoring land, construction sites, agriculture, and environmental changes. Their work involves piloting drones, capturing precise aerial imagery, and interpreting data to help organizations make informed decisions. Drone GIS Operators must be skilled in both drone technology and GIS applications, ensuring accurate data collection and analysis. They often work for engineering firms, government agencies, environmental organizations, and agricultural companies.

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

To thrive as a Drone GIS Operator, you need expertise in geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and drone operation, typically supported by relevant certifications or a degree in geography, surveying, or related fields. Familiarity with drone flight planning software, GIS platforms like ArcGIS or QGIS, and UAV licensing requirements is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top operators apart. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe drone operation, and reliable spatial analysis critical to project success.

What are some common challenges faced by drone GIS operators when collecting and processing geospatial data in the field?

Drone GIS Operators often encounter challenges such as adverse weather conditions, technical malfunctions, and data quality issues while collecting geospatial data. Working outdoors means operators must adapt to changing environments, ensure compliance with local airspace regulations, and maintain safety protocols. Additionally, processing large datasets can be time-consuming and requires strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in mapping and analysis. Collaboration with GIS analysts, surveyors, and project managers is essential to meet project goals efficiently.

What is the difference between Drone Gis Operator vs GIS Technician?

AspectDrone Gis OperatorGIS Technician
CredentialsFAA drone license, GIS software knowledgeBachelor's in GIS, GIS software proficiency
Work EnvironmentFieldwork with drones, outdoor data collectionOffice-based, data analysis and mapping
Industry UsageConstruction, agriculture, surveyingUrban planning, environmental management

While both roles involve geographic data, the Drone Gis Operator primarily operates drones for data collection in outdoor environments, requiring drone licenses. The GIS Technician focuses on analyzing and managing GIS data in office settings. Both roles are essential in geospatial projects but differ in daily tasks and required certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Gis Operator jobs?

For Drone Gis Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Drone Gis Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,527 per year, or $57.9 per hour.

Drone Operator

Moab, UT • On-site

Mariana Minerals
See more jobs at Mariana Mineralsexternal

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

About Mariana Minerals
Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We're reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
Position Summary
The Drone Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in support of mining operations. This role conducts and supervises continuous drone flight activities for surveying, inspection, monitoring, mapping, stockpile measurements, environmental compliance, security surveillance, and operational support. The Drone Operator ensures all drone missions are executed in accordance with applicable aviation regulations, company policies, and mine safety standards.
This position requires strong technical knowledge of drone systems, mining operations, aviation regulations, and emergency response procedures. Operators must maintain required certifications and be capable of working independently in a safety-sensitive environment.
Housing can be provided onsite.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Drone Operations
  • Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections of drone systems and equipment.
  • Operate and monitor drones in a 24/7 mining environment during day and night shifts.
  • Execute automated and manual flight missions for mapping, surveying, inspections, and site monitoring.
  • Monitor telemetry, battery status, weather conditions, and airspace restrictions to ensure safe operations.
  • Maintain compliance with FAA, MSHA, and company safety and operational requirements.
  • Collect aerial imagery, video, LiDAR, photogrammetry, and other operational data.
  • Verify data quality, process mission outputs, and distribute information to stakeholders.
  • Prepare reports and communicate operational findings to management and project teams.
  • Coordinate drone activities with mine supervisors, engineering, dispatch, security, and safety personnel.
  • Conduct mission risk assessments and maintain awareness of mining hazards, traffic, blasting schedules, and restricted areas.
  • Respond to equipment malfunctions, flight deviations, and emergency situations.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drones, sensors, batteries, and related equipment.
  • Coordinate repairs with vendors and technical support teams and maintain parts and supply inventories.
  • Maintain accurate flight logs, operational records, maintenance documentation, and compliance reports.

Required Qualifications
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required).
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain site-specific mining and safety certifications.
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Associate degree or technical training in aviation, geospatial technology, engineering, surveying, or a related field preferred.
  • Minimum 2 years of professional drone operating experience preferred.
  • Experience operating drones in industrial, construction, mining, energy, or similar environments preferred.
  • Understanding of mining operations, mine safety procedures, and site hazards.
  • Experience with drone mission planning software and flight management systems.
  • Knowledge of aerial surveying, photogrammetry, GIS, LiDAR, or mapping technologies preferred.
  • Ability to read maps, site plans, and technical documents.
  • Familiarity with weather impacts on drone operations.

Required Skills & Competencies
  • Strong commitment to safety.
  • Excellent situational awareness and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
  • Attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping.
  • Ability to remain alert and focused during extended monitoring periods.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to walk on uneven terrain and active mining sites.
  • Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, and kneel for extended periods.
  • Ability to maintain visual observation of aircraft during flight operations when required.

Work Environment
  • Active surface or underground mining operations.
  • Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, heavy equipment traffic, and changing weather conditions.
  • Rotating 24/7 shift coverage including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with autonomous drone operations.
  • MSHA training or mining industry experience.
  • GIS, surveying, photogrammetry, or LiDAR experience.
  • Experience managing multiple simultaneous drone missions.
  • Advanced drone certifications or manufacturer-specific training.
Our culture is built on four principles:
Everyone Gets Home Safe. We never put speed or cost ahead of people.
Extreme Ownership. We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions.
Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate. We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale.
Share Your Legos. We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions.
Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply!

Apply