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Drone Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Tex-Air Drone

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Drone Pilot & Data Specialist

Amarillo, TX · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

As a Drone Pilot & Data Specialist , you will split your time between operating commercial drones in the field and managing, processing, and delivering technical data at a workstation. We need ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Dallas, TX

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone systems and software (e.g., mapping and modeling software). * Excellent spatial awareness and attention ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Dallas, TX

Proven experience operating drones in various settings. * Strong technical knowledge of drone systems and software (e.g., mapping and modeling software). * Excellent spatial awareness and attention ...

JDK Drones

Drone Pilot

Dallas, TX · On-site

$60 - $95/hr

As a Drone Pilot Inspection Specialist, you will play a key role in assessing property damage by operating drones, following FAA regulations, and ensuring accurate data collection for claims analysis.

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Kiewit Corporation

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX · On-site

This role is ideal for someone with hands-on drone and LiDAR experience who is passionate about ... Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work ...

San Antonio Spurs

Drone Pilot

Midland, TX · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate ... Experience operating drones in construction, industrial, infrastructure, or commercial environments ...

New

CenterPoint Energy

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience operating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in compliance with ... for drone operations. * Assist in training entry-level drone pilots as needed. Education ...

CenterPoint Energy

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience operating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in compliance with ... for drone operations. * Assist in training entry-level drone pilots as needed. Education ...

Private

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Field Sales Executive - Drone Solutions

Tyler, TX · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr (+ commission)

... operating procedures. * Meet or exceed established sales goals and performance expectations ... Existing relationships within industries that could benefit from commercial drone or aerial data ...

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Drone Operator information

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How much do drone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone operator in Texas is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $20.38 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 Texas?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Drone Operator jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Drone Operator job openings:

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

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

Drone Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,654 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Advanced Drone Operator

Allen Control Systems

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain drones for testing, evaluation, and operational missions.

  • Plan and execute complex flight missions using Mission Planner and Beta Flight.

  • Build, configure, and troubleshoot drone hardware and software systems.

Job description

Company Overview:

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup, founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders' successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop will have a real-world impact.

Position Overview:


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 will play a key role in executing flight tests, evaluating drone performance, and supporting real-world operational requirements. You will serve as an additional Part 107 certified pilot to meet our growing testing and mission needs.

What You'll Do:

  • Operate and maintain drones for testing, evaluation, and operational missions.
  • Plan and execute complex flight missions using Mission Planner and Beta Flight.
  • Build, configure, and troubleshoot drone hardware and software systems.
  • Collaborate with engineering and data teams to collect and validate aerial data for computer vision model training.
  • Conduct flight tests to evaluate performance and integrate feedback into drone design and operational procedures.
  • Document flight operations, maintain detailed logs, and support mission debriefs.

What You'll Need:

  • Part 107 certified pilot.
  • Hands-on experience in printing, building, and flying drones for offensive operations.
  • Operational understanding of how drones are being used in current conflicts around the world.
  • Proficient in Mission Planner and Beta Flight for mission planning and drone control.
  • Familiarity with data collection and integration into computer vision or analytics workflows.
  • 3+ years of relevant drone operation or robotics experience.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in dynamic, experimental environments.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary
  • ACS Equity Package
  • Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off

Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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