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Drone Operators Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

PCT Remote Pilot Operator

Warrenton, VA · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Potomac ...

i2G Systems

ECAM Strategy & Operations Lead

Sterling, VA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

... drone technologies. We specialize in system design, project management, commissioning, and ... Operating with a high degree of independence and cross-functional influence, the ECAM Strategy ...

TrustPoint

Controller

Sterling, VA · On-site

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Working closely with the CEO and COO, you will build the systems, processes, and financial ...

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Drone Operators information

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$9

$23

$58

How much do drone operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone operators in Virginia is $23.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $24.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Drone Operators vs Drone Pilots?

AspectDrone OperatorsDrone Pilots
CertificationsFAA Part 107 certificationFAA Part 107 certification
Work EnvironmentVaries from construction sites to film setsTypically flying drones in outdoor or controlled environments
Employer & IndustryMedia, agriculture, construction, inspectionFilmmaking, aerial photography, surveying

Drone Operators and Drone Pilots often share certifications and work environments, but Drone Pilots usually focus on flying drones for filming or photography, while Drone Operators may handle broader operational tasks. Both roles are essential in industries utilizing drone technology, with overlapping skills but different primary responsibilities.

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 mastering drone controls and equipment are important steps in qualifying for the role.

Is drone piloting a good career?

Drone operators are responsible for flying and managing unmanned aerial vehicles for various industries such as photography, surveying, and inspection. The field offers opportunities for technical skill development and often requires certification, with job prospects growing as drone technology expands. However, it can involve irregular hours and regulatory compliance.

Is there a demand for drone operators?

Demand for drone operators is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, photography, and inspection services. Employers seek certified operators skilled in using remote control systems and relevant regulations, with job opportunities increasing as drone technology becomes more integrated into various sectors.

What do drone operators get paid?

Drone operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Certified operators with specialized skills or working in commercial sectors may earn higher wages.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Operators jobs in Virginia?

For Drone Operators jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Operators jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Operators jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Drone Operators jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Drone Operators job openings:

Drone Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Operators job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,015 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

PCT Remote Pilot Operator

Science Applications International Corporation

Warrenton, VA • Remote

$17.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services

Job description

  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position.

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Potomac TRACON (PCT) in Warrenton, VA, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Job Description:

The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator. The RPO operates a combination of a simulated radar display and voice communication system to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.

The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications:  Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.

SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

Required Qualifications:

  • Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals, and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
  • Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective oral and written communications skills
  • Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective team building skills
  • MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology

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