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Drone Operator Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO (NOW HIRING)

Performance Drone Works

Program Manager

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used ... You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility ...

Performance Drone Works

Electrical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$118K - $147K/yr

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used ... You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility ...

Axon

Sales Engineer II - Dedrone

Denver, CO · On-site +1

Basic understanding of Drone technology, desirable experience in flying * Educational background ... Basic knowledge of computer hardware, operating systems, and storage devices. * Ability to work ...

Axon

Sales Engineer II - Dedrone (Federal)

Denver, CO · On-site +1

Basic understanding of Drone technology, desirable experience in flying * Educational background ... Basic knowledge of computer hardware, operating systems, and storage devices. * Ability to work ...

Vantor

Hardware Platform Technical Leader

Westminster, CO · On-site

$135K - $180K/yr

Extensive familiarity with common drone HW/SW operating platforms such a Ardupilot and PX4 * Prior startup or "bootstrap" projects in this domain preferred * US Citizen required, ability to hold ...

Axon

Sales Engineer II - Dedrone (Federal)

Denver, CO · On-site

Basic understanding of Drone technology, desirable experience in flying * Educational background ... Basic knowledge of computer hardware, operating systems, and storage devices. * Ability to work ...

Axon

Sales Engineer II - Dedrone (Federal)

Denver, CO · On-site

$93K - $150K/yr

Basic understanding of Drone technology, desirable experience in flying Educational background ... Basic knowledge of computer hardware, operating systems, and storage devices. Ability to work ...

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All JobsDrone Operator JobsDrone Operator Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO

Drone Operator information

See Highlands Ranch, CO salary details

$11

$24

$38

How much do drone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone operator in Highlands Ranch, CO is $24.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $22.98 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 cities near Highlands Ranch, CO are hiring for Drone Operator jobs?

Cities near Highlands Ranch, CO with the most Drone Operator job openings:

Drone Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Operator job openings in Highlands Ranch, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,308 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Drone Operator / UAV Pilot /UAV/FAA 107/UAS

Centraprise

Denver, CO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Drone Operator / UAV Pilot - Flight Operations Support Services
Mountain View, CA; Denver, CO; Los Angeles, CA; San Francisco, CA; San Diego, CA; Seattle, WA; Miami, FL; Philadelphia, PA; Phoenix, AZ; St. Louis, MO; Dallas-Fort Worth, TX; Christiansburg, VA; Atlanta, GA; Charlotte, NC; Tampa, FL; Orlando, FL; Bentonville, AR; Houston, TX; Cincinnati, OH; Memphis, TN; New Orleans, LA; Salt Lake City, UT - Onsite
Full-time Permanent
Job Description:
Certification Required: FAA Part 107
We are looking for a Drone Operator / UAV Pilot with an active FAA Part 107 Certification. The candidate will be responsible for safely operating drones for Package Delivery .
Responsibilities:
  • Operate drones safely as per project requirements.
  • Perform pre-flight and post-flight equipment checks.
  • Follow FAA Part 107 rules and company safety guidelines.
  • Deliver the package via drone.
  • Maintain flight logs and basic documentation.
  • Coordinate with field teams and project managers.

Requirements
  • Active FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is mandatory.
  • Hands-on drone flying experience.
  • Knowledge of drone safety, airspace rules, and weather conditions.
  • Ability to work onsite and travel to field locations.
  • Good communication and attention to detail.

Apply