ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drone Operations Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Motorola

DFR Solutions Architect

Washington, DC · Remote

$71.25 - $94/hr

Our mission is to empower public safety organizations to launch advanced Drone as a First Responder (DFR) programs that ensure seamless operations and community safety. We are actively seeking a ...

Heven AeroTech

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA · On-site

This role involves overseeing all drone operations, training programs, and compliance with regulatory requirements, ensuring safe and effective use of UAVs. The Chief Pilot will also act as the ...

Heven AeroTech

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA · On-site

This role involves overseeing all drone operations, training programs, and compliance with regulatory requirements, ensuring safe and effective use of UAVs. The Chief Pilot will also act as the ...

Heven AeroTech

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA

This role involves overseeing all drone operations, training programs, and compliance with regulatory requirements, ensuring safe and effective use of UAVs. The Chief Pilot will also act as the ...

Leonardo DRS

Master Scheduler

Germantown, MD · On-site

$101K - $131K/yr

The company is a recognized pioneer in AESA tactical radar technology, supporting missions such as active military protection, counter-drone operations, critical infrastructure security, and border ...

Leonardo DRS

Master Scheduler

Germantown, MD

$101K - $131K/yr

The company is a recognized pioneer in AESA tactical radar technology, supporting missions such as active military protection, counter-drone operations, critical infrastructure security, and border ...

Leonardo DRS

Facilities Manager

Germantown, MD

$107K - $144K/yr

The company is a recognized pioneer in AESA tactical radar technology, supporting missions such as active military protection, counter-drone operations, critical infrastructure security, and border ...

Leonardo DRS

Facilities Manager

Germantown, MD · On-site

$107K - $144K/yr

The company is a recognized pioneer in AESA tactical radar technology, supporting missions such as active military protection, counter-drone operations, critical infrastructure security, and border ...

Leonardo DRS

Manufacturing Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

The company is a recognized pioneer in AESA tactical radar technology, supporting missions such as active military protection, counter-drone operations, critical infrastructure security, and border ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrone Operations JobsDrone Operations Jobs in Washington

Drone Operations information

See Washington salary details

$12

$26

$54

How much do drone operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone operations in Washington is $26.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.13 and $30.58 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 Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Drone Operations jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Drone Operations job openings:

Drone Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Operations job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,965 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

U.S. Military drone or UAV Operator/Maintainer

Orion Talent

Rockville, MD • On-site

$110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description
Job Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the primary on-site technical expert and operator for the THOR drone platform during field deployments, testing, and tactical exercises.
  • Perform comprehensive field-level maintenance, which includes troubleshooting faults, replacing parts, and repairing mechanical and electrical components to minimize downtime.
  • Develop and execute training programs for Army operators, ensuring military personnel are highly proficient in system operation, mission execution, and basic field troubleshooting.
  • Provide direct technical support for tactical communications and networking equipment, such as Silvus radios, to ensure reliable data links in the field.
  • Support system testing, flight evaluations, and payload integration in field environments.
  • Act as the liaison between the warfighter and the engineering team, providing detailed feedback on system performance, ruggedness, and operational needs.

Must-Have Skills, Education, & Experience:
  • 4-plus year's experience as a UAS Operator or maintainer.
  • Hands-on technical experience as a UAS Operator/Maintainer, with a proven track record of operating and or diagnosing hardware and software issues and swapping parts on the flight line.
  • Demonstrated ability to train, instruct, and evaluate Army operators or other military personnel on technical systems.
  • Ability to instruct others in drone operations/maintenance.
  • Willingness to travel extensively to support field operations and military training schedules.
  • Current or ability to obtain Active US Security Clearance.
  • Willingness to travel mainly to stateside military installations.

Apply