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Drone Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

T3i, Inc.

FPV Build/Flight Instructor

Navarre, FL

The ideal candidate is a former military professional, with extensive FPV drone experience and a passion for developing the next generation of drone operators. This role offers the opportunity to ...

XTEND

Senior Drone Lab Technician

Tampa, FL · On-site

Our end users include military operators, law enforcement units, and public safety teams who rely ... Lead and mentor a team of technicians in the assembly, integration, and maintenance of drone ...

Belcan Corporation

Mechanical Engineer I

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$52 - $72/hr

This role will be responsible for troubleshooting drone issues observed within operations and ... first line between operator/maintainer experiences and design engineering improvements or ...

New

Belcan

Mechanical Engineer I

Tallahassee, FL

$45.10/hr

This role will be responsible for troubleshooting drone issues observed within operations and ... first line between operator/maintainer experiences and design engineering improvements or ...

4M Building Solutions

Route Window Cleaner

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

... with or operate drone-based window cleaning systems on applicable job sitesFollow all safety ... operating drones or willingness to be trainedAbility to obtain or currently hold an FAA Part 107 ...

4M Building Solutions

Route Window Cleaner

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure proper handling and maintenance of drone equipment ... Experience operating drones or willingness to be trained * Ability to obtain or currently hold an ...

4M Building Solutions

Route Window Cleaner

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

... with or operate drone-based window cleaning systems on applicable job sitesFollow all safety ... operating drones or willingness to be trainedAbility to obtain or currently hold an FAA Part 107 ...

XTEND

Embedded Software Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$124K - $163K/yr

Core Operating System Support * Contribute to the development and refinement of XTEND's embedded software architecture and core operating environment for drone and payload systems. Testing ...

4M Building Solutions

Route Window Cleaner

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure proper handling and maintenance of drone equipment ... Experience operating drones or willingness to be trained * Ability to obtain or currently hold an ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDrone Operator JobsDrone Operator Jobs in Florida

Drone Operator information

See Florida salary details

$7

$17

$27

How much do drone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone operator in Florida is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone operator?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone operator?

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.

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 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.

Do drone operators make money?

Drone operators can earn varying incomes depending on their experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often get paid per project, hourly, or through contracts, with salaries ranging from entry-level to experienced professionals earning higher wages. Certification and skills in operating different drone types can also influence earning potential.

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 having technical skills with drone equipment are important for the role.

Is there a demand for drone operators?

The demand for drone operators is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, filmmaking, and inspection services. Employers seek certified operators skilled in flight safety, navigation, and data collection, with job opportunities increasing as drone technology becomes more integrated into various sectors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Operator jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Drone Operator jobs in Florida are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Drone Operator jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Drone Operator job openings:

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

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

Drone Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,818 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

FPV Build/Flight Instructor

T3i, Inc.

Navarre, FL

Full-time, Part-time, Contractor

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated FPV Build/Flight Instructor to provide instruction for the T3i FPV Build and Fly drone training program. This position is responsible for teaching students how to build, configure, maintain, and safely operate FPV unmanned aircraft systems from initial assembly through flight operations. The instructor will provide both classroom and hands-on training covering aircraft construction, soldering, electronics integration, flight controller configuration, mission planning, simulator training, and live flight instruction. The ideal candidate is a former military professional, with extensive FPV drone experience and a passion for developing the next generation of drone operators. This role offers the opportunity to train students in a dynamic environment where technical expertise, operational experience, and professional instruction are essential to mission success.
They must be proficient in FPV flight, tactical employment of munitions, and mission-level operational integration. Instructors should be comfortable working extended hours in all weather conditions.
Responsibilities:
  • Instruct students on the complete assembly of FPV drones, including frame construction, wiring, soldering, component installation, and system integration
  • Teach flight controller setup, firmware installation, Betaflight configuration, radio programming, and video transmission systems
  • Conduct pre-flight inspections, maintenance training, and troubleshooting procedures
  • Deliver classroom instruction, implement risk management, and monitor flight safety
  • Conduct simulator-based flight training and evaluate student progress
  • Provide hands-on flight instruction ranging from basic FPV flight skills to advanced operational techniques
  • Develop and maintain lesson plans, training materials, practical exercises, and student evaluations
  • Ensure compliance with all company, FAA, and safety regulations
  • Conduct risk assessments and safety briefings before training events
  • Maintain accountability and serviceability of training equipment and aircraft
  • Mentor students and provide constructive feedback to support successful course completion
Required Skills and Experience:
  • Minimum 1 year of FPV drone flight experience
  • Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License
  • Successfully complete T3i’s FPV instructor skills assessment
  • Experience building, repairing, and maintaining FPV aircraft
  • Knowledge of Betaflight, Radio Control systems, and LiPo battery management
  • Previous experience conducting instruction, training, coaching, or mentoring
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills
  • Proficient in computers, email, mobile messaging, and MS Office
  • Physically capable of extended outdoor operations in varying weather conditions
  • Possess a valid US Passport
  • Eligible for USG Secret security clearance
Desired Skills and Experience:
  • Prior U.S. military experience, including instructor, evaluator, or standardization examiner
  • Military SUAS, JTAC, or Special Operations experience is highly preferred
  • FPV drone design, and testing experience
  • Experience with course development and administration
Required Background Check: National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI) amp; Drug Screening
Type of Employment: Part-Time
T3i Drug Free Workplace Statement: As a Federal Government Contractor, T3i is required to strictly adhere to federally mandated drug-free workplace standards. To ensure compliance with this requirement, T3i conducts pre-employment drug screening for all new hire personnel (full time, part time, and independent contractor) and annual random drug screening for all current T3i personnel. All drug screening includes testing for the following drugs, at a minimum: Marijuana (CBD, hemp oil, and other cannabidiol use may result in a positive result), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, 6-monoacetylmorphine, and PCP. Personnel who cannot pass drug screening are not eligible for employment with T3i.
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About T3i

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

2014

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