Drone Pilot
Abilene, TX · On-site
Conduct drone operations for asset inspections, environmental monitoring, and aerial surveys * Support survey planning activities, including flight path design and scheduling * Perform pre-flight ...
Drone Pilot
Abilene, TX · On-site
Conduct drone operations for asset inspections, environmental monitoring, and aerial surveys * Support survey planning activities, including flight path design and scheduling * Perform pre-flight ...
Serve as the Pilot in Command for drone light shows, ensuring safe and efficient flight operations. * Lead the flight planning process, including route planning, weather assessments, and risk ...
Serve as the Pilot in Command for drone light shows, ensuring safe and efficient flight operations. * Lead the flight planning process, including route planning, weather assessments, and risk ...
Seasonal Pilot in Command Drone Light Shows
Coloma, MI · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
Serve as the Pilot in Command for drone light shows, ensuring safe and efficient flight operations. * Lead the flight planning process, including route planning, weather assessments, and risk ...
Seasonal Pilot in Command Drone Light Shows
Coloma, MI · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
Serve as the Pilot in Command for drone light shows, ensuring safe and efficient flight operations. * Lead the flight planning process, including route planning, weather assessments, and risk ...
We're seeking a skilled Drone Operator / Operations Technician who will be responsible for operating UAVs for mosquito control, conducting ground-based surveillance and treatment, and supporting ...
We're seeking a skilled Drone Operator / Operations Technician who will be responsible for operating UAVs for mosquito control, conducting ground-based surveillance and treatment, and supporting ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$49K - $66K/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 ...
Quick apply
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$49K - $66K/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 ...
Drone Pilot
Rio Grande City, TX · On-site
$25 - $30/hr
Conduct drone operations in accordance with company procedures and job specifications * Support industrial coating and cleaning operations on large-scale field projects * Monitor drone performance ...
Drone Pilot
Rio Grande City, TX · On-site
$25 - $30/hr
Conduct drone operations in accordance with company procedures and job specifications * Support industrial coating and cleaning operations on large-scale field projects * Monitor drone performance ...
Drone Pilot
$25 - $30/hr
Madden Industrial Craftsmen is seeking Drone Pilots for our client supporting industrial coating and pressure washing operations in Rio Grande City, TX and surrounding project locations. This role ...
Quick apply
Drone Pilot
$25 - $30/hr
Madden Industrial Craftsmen is seeking Drone Pilots for our client supporting industrial coating and pressure washing operations in Rio Grande City, TX and surrounding project locations. This role ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
New Orleans, LA · On-site
$49K - $66K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
New Orleans, LA · On-site
$49K - $66K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$51K - $68K/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 ...
Quick apply
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$51K - $68K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Salt Lake City, UT · On-site
$49K - $66K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Salt Lake City, UT · On-site
$49K - $66K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Charlotte, NC · On-site
$50K - $67K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Charlotte, NC · On-site
$50K - $67K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$50K - $67K/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 ...
Quick apply
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$50K - $67K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Memphis, TN · On-site
$50K - $67K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Memphis, TN · On-site
$50K - $67K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$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 ...
Quick apply
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$48K - $64K/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 ...
Quick apply
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$48K - $64K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$49K - $66K/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 ...
Quick apply
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$49K - $66K/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 ...
Drone Operator
Brentwood, TN · On-site
$16.75 - $22.50/hr
Drone Operator (Swing Shift) Location: Brentwood, TN Employment Type: Full Time Compensation ... Key Responsibilities Mission Planning & Flight Operations * Lead and support mission planning ...
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Drone Operator
Brentwood, TN · On-site
$16.75 - $22.50/hr
Drone Operator (Swing Shift) Location: Brentwood, TN Employment Type: Full Time Compensation ... Key Responsibilities Mission Planning & Flight Operations * Lead and support mission planning ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$48K - $65K/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 ...
Quick apply
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$48K - $65K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Orlando, FL · On-site
$48K - $64K/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 ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Orlando, FL · On-site
$48K - $64K/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 ...
Drone Operations information
See salary details
$11.30 - $15.12
9% of jobs
$17.62 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.12 - $18.95
24% of jobs
The median wage is $21.86 / hr.
$18.95 - $22.77
22% of jobs
$22.77 - $26.60
16% of jobs
$28.29 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$26.60 - $30.42
9% of jobs
$30.42 - $34.24
7% of jobs
$34.24 - $38.07
4% of jobs
$38.07 - $41.89
4% of jobs
$41.89 - $45.72
3% of jobs
$45.72 - $49.54
1% of jobs
$49.54 - $53.37
0% of jobs
$11
$26
$53
How much do drone operations jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone operations in the United States is $26.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Drone Operations vs Drone Pilots?
| Aspect | Drone Operations | Drone Pilots |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | FAA Part 107 certification, safety training | FAA Part 107 certification, flight training |
| Work Environment | Team coordination, planning, and management | Flying drones, on-site or remote |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Media, agriculture, construction, inspection | Filming, 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.
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 do drone operators earn?
Drone operators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Certified operators with specialized skills in aerial photography, surveying, or inspection can earn higher salaries, especially in commercial or industrial settings.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drone Operations Specialist, and why are they important?
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 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.
How do you get a job as a drone operator?
To become a drone operator, you typically need to obtain a remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority, which requires passing an aeronautical knowledge test. Experience with drone flight, knowledge of safety protocols, and proficiency with drone equipment are also important for securing employment in this field.
How much do drone operators get paid?
Drone operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Certified operators with specialized skills in aerial photography, surveying, or inspection may command higher wages.
Is drone operation a good career?
Drone operation is a growing field with opportunities in industries such as photography, surveying, and inspection. It requires skills in piloting, knowledge of regulations, and often certification, making it a viable career path for those interested in technology and aviation. Job prospects depend on industry demand and regional regulations.
More about Drone Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Operations jobs? Cities with the most Drone Operations job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Operations jobs? The most popular types of Drone Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Drone Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Operations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Operations jobs are:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Posted 6 days ago
Kiewit Corporation rating
8.0
Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
20th of 78 rated construction
Job description
Requisition ID: 181191
Job Level: Mid Level
Home District/Group: Kiewit Industrial District
Department: Technology Group
Market: Industrial
Employment Type: Full Time
Position Overview
Kiewit Industrial District is seeking a motivated Drone Pilot to support aerial data collection and surveying efforts across transmission and distribution projects. This role is ideal for someone with hands-on drone and LiDAR experience who is passionate about safety, data quality, and leveraging emerging technology in the field.
District Overview
The Kiewit Industrial District delivers direct-hire construction services for complex industrial projects across the United States. Our work spans multiple sectors, including data centers, mineral processing, energy and water, with projects ranging from small capital work to major EPC projects.
We are committed to safety, quality, and excellence in execution, providing our clients with world-class solutions while offering our employees stability, growth, and career development opportunities within a multi-billion-dollar organization. Our culture is built on collaboration, innovation, integrity, and a shared passion for construction.
If you're ready to take on complex, high-impact projects and make a lasting difference in the construction industry, the Kiewit Industrial District is where you can build a career that truly matters.
Location
Abilene, TX
Responsibilities
Qualifications
Other Requirements:
We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
There's no limit to what you'll do at Kiewit. Whether you're building or supporting projects that provide communities with dependable energy, safe transportation, clean water, or access to health care, the work you do will positively impact people's lives for generations to come.
Here you'll have endless opportunities to expand your expertise through on-the-job experience and internal and external training and development opportunities.
We offer our full-time staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry. From top-tier health care programs to employee assistance programs and retirement planning, we aim to provide you with the tools you need to be successful in the areas of life that matter most to you.
Kiewit is an equal-opportunity employer, and we believe a diverse workforce is vital to the success of our business. We continue our efforts to attract, develop and retain employees from all backgrounds who are passionate about our industry.
We are committed to veteran and military hiring and will consider relevant military experience as equivalent to qualification requirements.
Job Level: Mid Level
Home District/Group: Kiewit Industrial District
Department: Technology Group
Market: Industrial
Employment Type: Full Time
Position Overview
Kiewit Industrial District is seeking a motivated Drone Pilot to support aerial data collection and surveying efforts across transmission and distribution projects. This role is ideal for someone with hands-on drone and LiDAR experience who is passionate about safety, data quality, and leveraging emerging technology in the field.
District Overview
The Kiewit Industrial District delivers direct-hire construction services for complex industrial projects across the United States. Our work spans multiple sectors, including data centers, mineral processing, energy and water, with projects ranging from small capital work to major EPC projects.
We are committed to safety, quality, and excellence in execution, providing our clients with world-class solutions while offering our employees stability, growth, and career development opportunities within a multi-billion-dollar organization. Our culture is built on collaboration, innovation, integrity, and a shared passion for construction.
If you're ready to take on complex, high-impact projects and make a lasting difference in the construction industry, the Kiewit Industrial District is where you can build a career that truly matters.
Location
Abilene, TX
Responsibilities
- Conduct drone operations for asset inspections, environmental monitoring, and aerial surveys
- Support survey planning activities, including flight path design and scheduling
- Perform pre-flight planning, risk assessments, and post-flight data validation
- Process and analyze data to produce accurate maps, models, and deliverables
- Ensure strict adherence to FAA regulations and Kiewit safety standards
- Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of drone systems and LiDAR equipment
- Collaborate with project managers, GIS teams, and field personnel to meet project objectives
Qualifications
- 1-3 years of experience in drone operations, aerial surveying, and/or LiDAR data collection
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required)
- Bachelor's degree in Geography, Geomatics, Engineering, or related field preferred
- Experience with drone tools
- Working knowledge of survey equipment and techniques (GPS, total stations)
- Strong attention to detail and analytical problem-solving skills
- Willingness to travel and work in varying field environments
- Expierence with editing videos using Adobe Premier
Other Requirements:
- Regular, reliable attendance
- Work productively and meet deadlines timely
- Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment.
- Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
- Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
- May work at various different locations and conditions may vary.
We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
There's no limit to what you'll do at Kiewit. Whether you're building or supporting projects that provide communities with dependable energy, safe transportation, clean water, or access to health care, the work you do will positively impact people's lives for generations to come.
Here you'll have endless opportunities to expand your expertise through on-the-job experience and internal and external training and development opportunities.
We offer our full-time staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry. From top-tier health care programs to employee assistance programs and retirement planning, we aim to provide you with the tools you need to be successful in the areas of life that matter most to you.
Kiewit is an equal-opportunity employer, and we believe a diverse workforce is vital to the success of our business. We continue our efforts to attract, develop and retain employees from all backgrounds who are passionate about our industry.
We are committed to veteran and military hiring and will consider relevant military experience as equivalent to qualification requirements.
What Kiewit Corporation employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Kiewit
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Kiewit Infrastructure Engineering's Design-Build team is driving clients to turn to Kiewit during all stages of design-build projects. Through our integrated design and construction approach, our multi-disciplinary team works together to improve schedule, control costs and minimize risk. Our construction-focused engineers work collaboratively with our estimators and builders to design solutions that are innovative, constructible, and designed with a focus on safety. Clients benefit from the proven processes and tools used by Kiewit to minimize project risk. We are an in-house resource that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff shares experiences gained, innovative concepts, and best practices for all projects that we support.
Industry
Construction materials wholesalers
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Omaha, NE, US
Year founded
1884