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Drone Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

We are seeking a skilled and certified Drone Pilot to operate and manage drone operations for various projects. As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

We are seeking a skilled and certified Drone Pilot to operate and manage drone operations for various projects. As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent ...

Tsmg

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

TSMG

UAS Operations Support Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

TSMG

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

TSMG

UAS Operations Support Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

TSMG

UAS Operations Support Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

TSMG

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

TSMG

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

TSMG

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

TSMG

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

TSMG

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

We are seeking professionals interested in supporting the day-to-day execution of commercial drone operations. This role focuses on ground operations, aircraft readiness, logistics support, and ...

HavocAI

Air Operations Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

You'll plan and execute drone operations, integrate directly with military units, and serve as the human bridge between Havoc AI's technology and the operators who depend on it. When you're not in ...

HavocAI

Air Operations Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

You'll plan and execute drone operations, integrate directly with military units, and serve as the human bridge between Havoc AI's technology and the operators who depend on it. When you're not in ...

Terabase Energy, Inc

Operations Project Manager

Berkeley, CA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Drone Operations Management * Become a power user of drone analysis tools and software to optimize processing workflows from start to finish - obtaining raw field data to generating and delivery of ...

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Drone Operations information

See California salary details

$11

$25

$51

How much do drone operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone operations in California is $25.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $28.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are drone operations?

Drone operations refer to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for various tasks such as aerial photography, surveying, inspection, mapping, delivery, and surveillance. These operations involve planning flight paths, piloting drones, ensuring compliance with regulations, and collecting or analyzing data captured by the drone. Drone operators may work in industries like agriculture, construction, real estate, public safety, and logistics, depending on the mission and type of drone used. Safety, accuracy, and adherence to legal requirements are key aspects of successful drone operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone operations specialist?

To thrive as a Drone Operations Specialist, you need strong piloting skills, a solid understanding of aviation regulations, and often a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) from the FAA. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and various drone platforms is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you manage missions safely and collaborate with team members. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and efficient drone operations across a range of industries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in drone operations, and how can they be addressed?

Drone operations professionals frequently encounter challenges such as changing weather conditions, regulatory compliance, and maintaining equipment reliability. Adapting flight plans to sudden weather shifts and staying updated on evolving FAA regulations are essential for safe and legal operation. Additionally, effective pre- and post-flight maintenance routines help minimize technical issues. Collaborating closely with team members, such as airspace coordinators and data analysts, ensures that missions are completed efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Drone Operations vs Drone Pilots?

AspectDrone OperationsDrone Pilots
CertificationsFAA Part 107 certification, safety trainingFAA Part 107 certification, flight training
Work EnvironmentTeam coordination, planning, and managementFlying drones, on-site or remote
Employer & Industry UsageMedia, agriculture, construction, inspectionFilming, surveying, inspection

Drone Operations involves managing drone missions, coordinating teams, and planning flights, often requiring additional project management skills. Drone Pilots focus primarily on flying drones and capturing footage or data. While both roles require FAA Part 107 certification, Drone Operations emphasizes coordination and planning, whereas Drone Pilots concentrate on piloting skills and flight execution.

Are drone operations in high demand?

Drone operations professionals are experiencing increasing demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, and film production due to the growing use of unmanned aerial vehicles. Skills in piloting, maintenance, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects as the industry expands.

How do you become a drone operations?

To become a drone operator, you typically need to obtain a remote pilot certificate from the relevant aviation authority, which involves passing a knowledge test. Additionally, gaining experience with drone flight, understanding safety regulations, and mastering drone controls and maintenance are important steps in the process.

Is a drone operations a good career?

Drone operations is a growing field that involves piloting and managing unmanned aerial vehicles for various industries such as photography, surveying, and inspection. It requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of safety regulations, making it a viable career option with increasing demand. Job prospects depend on industry growth and regional regulations.

What do drone operations get paid?

Drone operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks. Salaries can range from around $35,000 to over $70,000 annually for full-time positions, especially for those with certifications and specialized skills in aerial photography, surveying, or inspection. Pay may also vary based on whether the work is freelance or employed by a company.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Operations jobs in California?

The most popular types of Drone Operations jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Drone Operations jobs in California?

For Drone Operations jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Operations jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Operations jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Drone Operations jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drone Operations job openings:

Drone Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Operations job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,508 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Drone Pilot

TSMG

San Francisco, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and certified Drone Pilot to operate and manage drone operations for various projects. As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting skills, and the ability to analyze aerial data. 

Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping, inspection, and videography.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections.
  • Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition.
  • Follow all FAA regulations and safety guidelines during drone operations.
  • Plan flight paths and adjust them as necessary based on environmental conditions.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret aerial data for reporting and project needs.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure project goals are met.
  • Maintain detailed records of flights, including time, locations, and data collected.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drone equipment.
  • Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and regulations related to drone operations.
Qualifications:
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or equivalent).
  • Proven experience operating drones in various settings.
  • Strong technical knowledge of drone systems and software (e.g., mapping and modeling software).
  • Excellent spatial awareness and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to analyze data and present findings clearly.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with specific drone models (e.g., DJI, Parrot).
  • Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications.
  • Previous experience in (e.g., construction, agriculture, film).
We would be happy to get to know you and your skills better and see how we can support each other's growth.

Please apply and let's meet!

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.