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Drone Gis Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GeoAcuity LLC

$60 - $80/hr

Develop and document repeatable GIS workflows and standard operating procedures * Support data ... Experience with remote sensing, imagery analysis, or UAS/drone data products * Familiarity with ...

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

New York, NY

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

GeoAcuity LLC

GIS Analyst

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Develop and document repeatable GIS workflows and standard operating procedures * Support data ... Experience with remote sensing, imagery analysis, or UAS/drone data products * Familiarity with ...

Exus Renewables North America

GIS Manager

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$81K - $109K/yr

Experience with processing Aerial LIDAR Digital Elevation Model Data (DEM), Drone Imagery, or other ... and operator of utility-scale renewable energy projects, dedicated to advancing clean energy ...

Exus Renewables North America

GIS Manager

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Experience with processing Aerial LIDAR Digital Elevation Model Data (DEM), Drone Imagery, or other ... and operator of utility-scale renewable energy projects, dedicated to advancing clean energy ...

Exus Renewables North America

GIS Manager

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$81K - $109K/yr

Experience with processing Aerial LIDAR Digital Elevation Model Data (DEM), Drone Imagery, or other ... and operator of utility-scale renewable energy projects, dedicated to advancing clean energy ...

LPL Solar LLC

Surveyor / Drone Pilot

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Process and manage drone imagery and survey data using applicable photogrammetry, CAD, GIS, and ... Previous experience operating drones/UAS for surveying, mapping, engineering, or construction ...

LPL Solar

Surveyor / Drone Pilot

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

Process and manage drone imagery and survey data using applicable photogrammetry, CAD, GIS, and ... Previous experience operating drones/UAS for surveying, mapping, engineering, or construction ...

LPL Solar

Surveyor / Drone Pilot

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

Process and manage drone imagery and survey data using applicable photogrammetry, CAD, GIS, and ... Previous experience operating drones/UAS for surveying, mapping, engineering, or construction ...

LPL Solar LLC

$100 - $125/hr

Process and manage drone imagery and survey data using applicable photogrammetry, CAD, GIS, and ... Previous experience operating drones/UAS for surveying, mapping, engineering, or construction ...

Kiewit Corporation

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX · On-site

Collaborate with project managers, GIS teams, and field personnel to meet project objectives ... Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work ...

LPL Solar LLC

$60 - $80/hr

Process and manage drone imagery and survey data using applicable photogrammetry, CAD, GIS, and ... Previous experience operating drones/UAS for surveying, mapping, engineering, or construction ...

LPL Solar

GA · On-site

Process and manage drone imagery and survey data using applicable photogrammetry, CAD, GIS, and ... Previous experience operating drones/UAS for surveying, mapping, engineering, or construction ...

Turner Mining Group

Entry Level Drone Operator Pilot

$20 - $21/hr

Drone Operator Pilots have a very heavy schedule. There is a great deal of nationwide travel ... Preference will be given to candidates with an applied knowledge of Utility infrastructure, GIS ...

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Drone Gis Operator information

See salary details

$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 & Field Operations Specialist

Houston, TX • On-site

SKIPPER NDT CORP
See more jobs at SKIPPER NDT CORPexternal

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Deploy and operate magnetic data acquisition technologies, including drone and land-based systems, in various field environments to collect data according to project specifications.

  • Execute comprehensive field operations such as equipment validation, vector deployment, establishing GIS base stations, and ensuring QHSE compliance, while maintaining detailed documentation.

  • Serve as the primary client contact during field activities, providing technical support, addressing inquiries, and maintaining professional relationships.

Job description

Field Operations Specialist

If you have experience in field GIS surveys, pipeline surveys, pipeline cathodic protection, close interval surveys, right of way surveys, ILI tool tracking, or pipeline and industrial facility inspections utilizing drone deployments, this role may be your next career move! As part of our continued expansion in North America, Skipper NDT is looking for a qualified Field Operations Specialist to join our Team in Houston, Tx. 
This role will ensure field deployment excellence for Skipper NDT's advanced magnetic data acquisition systems while building partnerships through comprehensive training and technical support. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with client relationship management to expand our market presence and ensure operational success across North America.
Key Responsibilities

Field Operations & Data Acquisition

  • Deploy and operate Skipper NDT's magnetic data acquisition technologies (drone and land-based) in diverse field environments, ensuring successful data collection and adherence to operational procedures and project specifications
  • Execute comprehensive field operations including equipment validation, vector selection optimization, current injection, establishing GIS base stations and GIS based control point acquisition, vector deployment (drone and land-based), QHSE compliance, real-time data quality assessment, and efficient mobilization/demobilization activities
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during field execution, maintaining professional relationships and addressing and resolving technical inquiries
  • Effectively liaise with key Skipper NDT and client personnel throughout project lifecycle to ensure operational excellence and safe execution to deliver an outstanding customer experience.  
  • Maintain detailed documentation of field operations, technical issues, and recommended improvements
Partner Support

  • Provide ongoing mentorship and technical support to certified partners, ensuring consistent service delivery across all deployments
  • Provide field support to certified partners as required
Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

  • Minimum of 2 years of progressive field operations experience in performing land surveying, pipeline surveys, right-of-way surveys, or drone based inspection techniques for the oil & gas, energy, or utility industries
Preferred:
 
  • Associate’s degree in Applied Sciences or related technical discipline.
  • Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (drone license) with clean operating record 
Technical Expertise

  • Working knowledge of GIS systems, base stations, and GIS data acquisition principles.  
  • Comprehensive knowledge of UAV systems, flight planning, and deployment
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with experience in equipment operation and maintenance
  • Proficiency in data acquisition, analysis, and validation techniques
  • Understanding of QHSE standards and regulatory compliance requirements in the oil & gas, energy, and utility industries 
Professional Skills

  • Strong verbal and written communication abilities 
  • Proven ability to work independently in challenging field environments while maintaining safety and quality standards
  • Strong problem-solving skills with ability to make critical decisions under pressure
  • Strong organizational skills, capable of managing multiple, complex tasks simultaneously.  
  • Must be process and procedure focused with dedication to documentation, quality and safety.  
  • Customer service oriented.
 Travel Requirements

  • Ability to travel up to 75% within assigned territory, including extended field assignments
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Valid passport or ability to acquire
  • Flexibility to work irregular hours based on project demands and client schedules
Physical Requirements

·       Capable of lifting 50 lbs. or greater
·       Walking large distances over varying terrains 
·       Working outside for extended periods of time and potentially in adverse weather conditions
·       Ability to assemble, test, and troubleshoot field equipment on-site
·       Must meet DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements, including pre-employment screening, random testing, and post-            accident testing
·       Must pass DOT physical examination and maintain valid DOT medical certification
·       TWIC card or ability to obtain TWIC card required

 Skipper NDT is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.