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Drone Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Operator

Brentwood, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Drone Operator (Swing Shift) Location: Brentwood, TN Employment Type: Full Time Compensation: Commensurate with experience Recruiting on behalf of a confidential client Position Overview FocusPoint ...

Apply Early

Rumple

Videographer & Drone Operator

Saint George, UT · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Videographer & Drone Operator Full-time Salary DOE Description: St. George News is seeking a full-time Videographer & Drone Operator to join our video production team. This position supports the ...

Apply Early

Seventh Dimension

Drone Operator

Fort Liberty, NC · On-site

Drone Operator Type: Part-Time/ Contract Location: Fort Bragg, NC Position Summary : We are seeking experienced Drone Operators to perform small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) flight operations in ...

Apply Early

Rumple

Videographer & Drone Operator

Saint George, UT · On-site

Videographer & Drone Operator Full-time Salary DOE Description: St. George News is seeking a full-time Videographer & Drone Operator to join our video production team. This position supports the ...

Rumple

Videographer & Drone Operator

Saint George, UT · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Videographer & Drone Operator Full-time Salary DOE Description: St. George News is seeking a full-time Videographer & Drone Operator to join our video production team. This position supports the ...

Valcourt

Drone Operator (71090)

Chicago, IL

$25 - $35/hr

Drone Pilot Operator / Window Cleaning Work Schedule: * Monday to Friday (Saturday and worknights available) * Morning Shift from 7:00 AM - 2:30 PM Drone Pilot Operators use advanced drone technology ...

Seventh Dimension

Drone Operator

Liberty, NC · On-site

Drone Operator Type: Part-Time/ Contract Location: Fort Bragg, NC Position Summary : We are seeking experienced Drone Operators to perform small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) flight operations in ...

Seventh Dimension

Drone Operator

Fort Liberty, NC

Drone Operator Type: Part-Time/ Contract Location: Fort Bragg, NC Position Summary : We are seeking experienced Drone Operators to perform small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) flight operations in ...

Valcourt

Drone Operator (72213)

Cleveland, OH

$25 - $30/hr

As we expand our use of cutting-edge technology, we are seeking a dedicated Drone Operator to join our team, operating the Lucid Bots Sherpa Drone to provide exceptional pressure washing and window ...

Scout AI

Drone Operator

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $20.25/hr

The Role We're hiring a Drone Operator to join our Mission Operations team at our test site in Paso Robles, CA. You'll pilot and supervise uncrewed aerial systems during test flights, autonomy trials ...

Valcourt

Drone Operator (70729)

Millstone Township, NJ

$28 - $31/hr

Drone Pilot Operator / Window Cleaning Work Schedule: * Monday to Friday (Saturday and worknights available) * Morning Shift from 7:00 AM - 2:30 PM Drone Pilot Operators use advanced drone technology ...

Valcourt

Drone Operator (71452)

Charlotte, NC

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Drone Pilot Operator / Window Cleaning Work Schedule: * Monday to Friday (Saturday and worknights available) * Morning Shift from 7:00 AM - 2:30 PM Drone Pilot Operators use advanced drone technology ...

Allen Control Systems

Advanced Drone Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

We are expanding our flight operations capability and opening a new role for a highly skilled drone operator who is experienced in building, configuring, and flying advanced UAV systems. This person ...

Apply Early

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Drone Operator information

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$10

$23

$37

How much do drone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone operator in the United States is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by drone operators during field operations?

Drone operators often face challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, maintaining compliance with local aviation regulations, and troubleshooting technical issues with equipment in the field. Additionally, they may need to coordinate closely with team members or clients on-site to ensure safety and meet project objectives. Effective communication and thorough pre-flight planning are essential to mitigate risks and complete missions successfully.

What are drone operators and what do they do?

Drone operators are professionals who pilot unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspections, mapping, agriculture, and delivery services. They are responsible for planning flights, operating the drone safely, capturing data or images, and maintaining equipment. Drone operators must comply with aviation regulations, ensure safe flight paths, and often analyze the data collected during their missions. The job requires technical skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certification depending on the country and type of operation.

What drone jobs pay the most?

High-paying drone jobs typically include roles such as aerial surveyor, cinematographer, and inspection specialist, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, and specialized equipment. These positions can pay significantly more due to the technical expertise and safety considerations involved.

Do drone operators make money?

Drone operators can earn varying wages depending on their experience, location, and the industry they work in. Entry-level positions may pay hourly or project-based rates, while experienced operators with certifications and specialized skills can command higher salaries or freelance fees. Income also depends on whether they work for companies, as contractors, or as independent entrepreneurs.

Is there a demand for drone operators?

Yes, demand for drone operators is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, real estate, and film production. Employers seek skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of FAA regulations, and job opportunities are increasing as drone technology becomes more widely adopted.

How do you become 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 involves passing a knowledge test. Additionally, gaining experience with drone flight, understanding safety regulations, and sometimes completing specific training or certifications are important steps in qualifying for the role.

What is the difference between Drone Operator vs Drone Pilot?

AspectDrone OperatorDrone Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107 certificationFAA Part 107 certification
Work EnvironmentIndoor/outdoor, various industriesOutdoor, primarily flight operations
Employer & IndustryMedia, agriculture, construction, inspectionFilmmaking, surveying, inspection
Common Search IntentOperational roles, job descriptionsFlying, piloting, flight skills

While both Drone Operators and Drone Pilots require FAA Part 107 certification and often work in similar environments, Drone Operators typically focus on managing drone operations, data collection, and payload handling. Drone Pilots primarily focus on flying the drone, ensuring safe and precise flight. The roles often overlap, but Drone Operators may handle more of the operational planning and data processing, whereas Drone Pilots concentrate on the actual flight execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drone Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination, and a solid understanding of aviation regulations, often supported by a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) from the FAA. Familiarity with drone flight control software, GPS systems, and camera operation is crucial for effective and safe operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set standout operators apart, especially when working in teams or with clients. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and high-quality drone operations across diverse industries such as surveying, videography, and inspection.
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Drone Operator jobs near you
Drone Operator

Drone Operator

FOCUSPOINT

Brentwood, TN • On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 hours ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Position: Drone Operator (Swing Shift)
Location: Brentwood, TN
Employment Type: Full Time
Compensation: Commensurate with experience

Recruiting on behalf of a confidential client

Position Overview

FocusPoint is partnering with a forward‑thinking organization seeking an experienced Drone Operator to support advanced unmanned aerial system (UAS) operations across multiple facilities. This role is ideal for a highly skilled professional who thrives in a technology‑driven environment and is motivated by improving safety, operational efficiency, and data‑driven decision‑making. The position operates on a swing shift schedule and requires periodic travel to client sites.

Key Responsibilities

Mission Planning & Flight Operations

  • Lead and support mission planning, including developing use cases, flight plans, and operational checklists.
  • Conduct routine and specialized drone flights, including BVLOS operations where permitted.
  • Maintain readiness for rapid deployment to support time‑sensitive or emergency response needs.
  • Identify opportunities to expand the use of drone technology to enhance safety, productivity, and cost‑effectiveness.

Regulatory Compliance

  • Stay current on all federal, state, and local UAS regulations.
  • Ensure all flight operations meet applicable compliance, documentation, and reporting standards.

Safety & Risk Management

  • Implement and uphold safety protocols for all drone operations.
  • Conduct ongoing risk assessments and maintain incident reporting procedures.
  • Promote a culture of safety and operational discipline within the drone program.

Data Acquisition & Analysis

  • Capture, process, and validate aerial data using advanced drone platforms.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders and analysts to extract insights from collected data.
  • Manage the delivery of reports and ensure accuracy and completeness of all outputs.

Team Communication & Leadership

  • Maintain operational awareness through consistent communication and updates.
  • Support a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and cross‑team collaboration.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or 5+ years of experience in a related industry.
  • Demonstrated experience operating drones in complex or industrial environments.
  • Strong understanding of UAS technology, regulations, and safety standards.
  • Experience with mission planning, data collection, and technology implementation.
  • Proficiency with data analysis and visualization tools.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required.

Core Values & Competencies

The ideal candidate embodies:

  • Safety & Discipline — Commitment to safe operations and procedural excellence.
  • Accountability — Ownership of work and high performance standards.
  • Integrity & Respect — Transparent communication and ethical decision‑making.
  • Growth Mindset — Continuous improvement and openness to innovation.
  • Curiosity — Willingness to challenge assumptions and explore new solutions.

Work Environment

  • Shift: Swing shift (evening hours, Monday–Friday).
  • Travel: Approximately 10% to client sites.
  • Environment: Field operations combined with office‑based data processing and planning.

Why Work with FocusPoint
As a trusted staffing partner to industry-leading companies, FocusPoint provides access to roles that align with your professional goals, and we advocate for your success throughout the recruitment process. Our team understands appropriate skillsets and takes a consultative approach ensuring that each match is grounded in both experience and fit.

How to Apply
To ensure confidentiality and alignment with our client’s hiring process, all applications must be submitted through FocusPoint. Please do not attempt to contact the client directly. Interested candidates should reach out to FocusPoint’s recruitment team with any questions.

About FocusPoint:
FocusPoint specializes in connecting top-tier professionals with exceptional opportunities in accounting, technology, healthcare, and leadership. We prioritize building meaningful connections, ensuring candidates find roles that align with their skills, goals, and passions.
 
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