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Drone Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

County of Freeborn

Patrol Deputy

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$36.62/hr

Do you want to be a part of an energetic team with opportunities such as SWAT, drug task force, boat and water patrol, ATV and snowmobile patrol, drone operator, or K9 handler? Do you want to live ...

County of Freeborn

Patrol Deputy

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$36.62 - $49.13/hr

Do you want to be a part of an energetic team with opportunities such as SWAT, drug task force, boat and water patrol, ATV and snowmobile patrol, drone operator, or K9 handler? Do you want to live ...

Dakota County

Correctional Deputy

Hastings, MN · On-site

$58K - $91K/yr

... Drone Operator, Social Media Team, Community Engagement/Recruitment Team, and Honor Guard. If you are looking for variety, career development, and a work/life balance in a professional career, join ...

Dakota County, MN

Correctional Deputy

Hastings, MN · On-site

$58K - $91K/yr

... Drone Operator, Social Media Team, Community Engagement/Recruitment Team, and Honor Guard. If you are looking for variety, career development, and a work/life balance in a professional career, join ...

City of Marshall

Police Officer

Marshall, MN · On-site

$36.42 - $48.15/hr

... drone operator, investigations, etc. Apply today. Complete the on-line employment application. Upload a copy of your Eligibility Letter or Peace Officer License. Optional: A resume is not required to ...

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All JobsDrone Operator JobsDrone Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Drone Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$22

$36

How much do drone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone operator in Minnesota is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $21.44 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 popular job titles related to Drone Operator jobs in Minnesota?

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

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

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Drone Operator jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Drone Operator job openings:

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

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

Drone Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,943 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Realty Camera Operator (entry level)

Archi-Pix

Arlington, MN • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Thank you for your interest in Archi-Pix real estate media, we are a real estate media company looking for a part-time photographer in the Arlington, MN area. Flexible schedule and great pay for motivated individuals. No photo editing required!
If you are looking for a position as a professional photographer, this could be the job for you. No need to have previous real estate photography experience. This photography position is paid by the hour.
Photographer Requirements:
  • Reliable transportation
  • Strong computer skills
  • An ability to adapt to our comprehensive photography guidelines
  • Internet connection suitable for quickly uploading large files
  • Availability to take on assignments in your local market M-F and occasionally on weekends
  • Strong interpersonal and customer service skills, as well as the ability to maintain a professional demeanor when interacting with our clients and support staff
  • Well-organized, motivated, with an attention to detail and strong follow-up skills
  • Receptive and accommodating to constructive feedback
  • Ability to pass a background check
  • Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment and technology!
All of our team members are trained in photography, 3D tour technology and are FAA Part 107 certified drone operators. Drone and 3D tour experience are a plus, but we are willing to train the right individuals for the job. If you are not already FAA certified, you will have to take a written test for FAA certification within your first 30 days.

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