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Drone Operator Pilot Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Mariana Minerals

Drone Operator

Moab, UT · On-site

The Drone Operator ensures all drone missions are executed in accordance with applicable aviation ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required). * Valid driver's license with acceptable driving ...

Teledyne

Drone & Robotics Test Engineer

Orem, UT

... a drone operator role-it's a systems-level test pilot position intended for a professional who understands the why behind every airframe maneuver and the how of translating test flights into ...

Livenation

Drone RPIC

West Valley City, UT · On-site

... a pilot in training, or an individual willing to receive the education to help ensure safe events through drone observation and reporting. This position will be responsible for operating ...

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Drone Operator Pilot information

What is a drone operator pilot?

Drone Operator Pilots are professionals trained to control and navigate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. They are responsible for planning flight paths, conducting pre-flight checks, and safely operating drones for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, inspection, or delivery services. In addition to piloting the drones, they may also be required to analyze data collected during flights and ensure compliance with aviation regulations. Drone Operator Pilots often work for private companies, government agencies, or as independent contractors, and must typically obtain relevant certifications or licenses to operate drones commercially.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone operator pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Operator Pilot, you need strong technical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations, often backed by a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA or equivalent authority. Proficiency with drone control software, GPS systems, and aerial imaging tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you adapt to changing environments and coordinate safely with teams or clients. These skills ensure safe, legal, and efficient drone operations that meet project objectives and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges drone operator pilots face when working on field assignments?

Drone Operator Pilots often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, maintaining compliance with evolving aviation regulations, and ensuring safe flight operations in complex environments. Field assignments may require quick troubleshooting of technical issues with the drone or its equipment and effective communication with team members and clients to meet project goals. Staying adaptable and proactive in addressing these challenges is crucial for successful missions and safety.

What is the difference between Drone Operator Pilot vs Drone Technician?

AspectDrone Operator PilotDrone Technician
CredentialsRemote Pilot Certification, FAA Part 107Technical certifications, repair licenses
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, aerial operationsIndoor repair shops, maintenance facilities
Industry UsageAerial photography, surveying, inspectionsEquipment maintenance, repairs

Drone Operator Pilots focus on flying drones for various applications, requiring pilot certifications. Drone Technicians handle maintenance and repairs, requiring technical skills. Both roles are essential in the drone industry but serve different functions.

Can you make good money as a drone operator pilot?

Drone operator pilots can earn varying incomes depending on experience, industry, and type of projects, with freelance pilots often charging hourly or per project rates. Salaries for full-time positions typically range from moderate to high, especially for specialized skills like aerial photography, surveying, or inspection work. Earning potential increases with certifications, advanced equipment, and a strong portfolio.

How much do drone operator pilots earn?

Drone operator pilots typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Certified pilots with specialized skills in aerial photography, surveying, or inspection can earn higher wages, especially with additional certifications and equipment knowledge.

Is there a demand for drone operator pilots?

The demand for drone operator pilots is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, filmmaking, and inspection services. Certified pilots with skills in operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and knowledge of relevant regulations are increasingly sought after as drone technology becomes more integrated into various sectors.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Operator Pilot jobs in Utah?

For Drone Operator Pilot jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Operator Pilot jobs in Utah look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Operator Pilot jobs in Utah are:

Drone Operator Pilot jobs near you

Drone Operator

Mariana Minerals

Moab, UT • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

About Mariana Minerals
Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We're reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
Position Summary
The Drone Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in support of mining operations. This role conducts and supervises continuous drone flight activities for surveying, inspection, monitoring, mapping, stockpile measurements, environmental compliance, security surveillance, and operational support. The Drone Operator ensures all drone missions are executed in accordance with applicable aviation regulations, company policies, and mine safety standards.
This position requires strong technical knowledge of drone systems, mining operations, aviation regulations, and emergency response procedures. Operators must maintain required certifications and be capable of working independently in a safety-sensitive environment.
Housing can be provided onsite.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Drone Operations
  • Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections of drone systems and equipment.
  • Operate and monitor drones in a 24/7 mining environment during day and night shifts.
  • Execute automated and manual flight missions for mapping, surveying, inspections, and site monitoring.
  • Monitor telemetry, battery status, weather conditions, and airspace restrictions to ensure safe operations.
  • Maintain compliance with FAA, MSHA, and company safety and operational requirements.
  • Collect aerial imagery, video, LiDAR, photogrammetry, and other operational data.
  • Verify data quality, process mission outputs, and distribute information to stakeholders.
  • Prepare reports and communicate operational findings to management and project teams.
  • Coordinate drone activities with mine supervisors, engineering, dispatch, security, and safety personnel.
  • Conduct mission risk assessments and maintain awareness of mining hazards, traffic, blasting schedules, and restricted areas.
  • Respond to equipment malfunctions, flight deviations, and emergency situations.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drones, sensors, batteries, and related equipment.
  • Coordinate repairs with vendors and technical support teams and maintain parts and supply inventories.
  • Maintain accurate flight logs, operational records, maintenance documentation, and compliance reports.

Required Qualifications
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required).
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain site-specific mining and safety certifications.
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Associate degree or technical training in aviation, geospatial technology, engineering, surveying, or a related field preferred.
  • Minimum 2 years of professional drone operating experience preferred.
  • Experience operating drones in industrial, construction, mining, energy, or similar environments preferred.
  • Understanding of mining operations, mine safety procedures, and site hazards.
  • Experience with drone mission planning software and flight management systems.
  • Knowledge of aerial surveying, photogrammetry, GIS, LiDAR, or mapping technologies preferred.
  • Ability to read maps, site plans, and technical documents.
  • Familiarity with weather impacts on drone operations.

Required Skills & Competencies
  • Strong commitment to safety.
  • Excellent situational awareness and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
  • Attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping.
  • Ability to remain alert and focused during extended monitoring periods.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to walk on uneven terrain and active mining sites.
  • Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, and kneel for extended periods.
  • Ability to maintain visual observation of aircraft during flight operations when required.

Work Environment
  • Active surface or underground mining operations.
  • Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, heavy equipment traffic, and changing weather conditions.
  • Rotating 24/7 shift coverage including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with autonomous drone operations.
  • MSHA training or mining industry experience.
  • GIS, surveying, photogrammetry, or LiDAR experience.
  • Experience managing multiple simultaneous drone missions.
  • Advanced drone certifications or manufacturer-specific training.
Our culture is built on four principles:
Everyone Gets Home Safe. We never put speed or cost ahead of people.
Extreme Ownership. We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions.
Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate. We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale.
Share Your Legos. We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions.
Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply!

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