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Drone Pilot In Command Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pilot drones in flight testing, gain deep familiarity with the system and aircraft performance ... Must have ability to travel several days in a week * Prepare, transport, and operate drone systems ...

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Pilot drones in flight testing, gain deep familiarity with the system and aircraft performance ... Must have ability to travel several days in a week * Prepare, transport, and operate drone systems ...

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

A minimum of 1,000 hours pilot in command flight time * Excellent interpersonal skills * Ability to work extended hours and travel as required * Read and speak English proficiently Desired * Both ...

Flight-Ground Instructor

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$140K - $252K/yr

For Launch and Recovery instruction: 500 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) with UAV instructor or multiple UAV aircraft qualification; one thousand five hundred (1500) UAV hours, Multiple aircraft UAV ...

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

A minimum of 1,000 hours pilot in command flight time * Excellent interpersonal skills * Ability to work extended hours and travel as required * Read and speak English proficiently * Both fixed wing ...

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

A minimum of 1,000 hours pilot in command flight time * Excellent interpersonal skills * Ability to work extended hours and travel as required * Read and speak English proficiently Desired * Both ...

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Drone Pilot In Command information

What is a Drone Pilot In Command?

A Drone Pilot In Command (PIC) is the individual legally responsible for the operation and safety of a drone flight. This person oversees the entire mission, makes operational decisions, and ensures compliance with aviation regulations. The PIC must hold the appropriate certifications, such as the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate in the U.S. They are also responsible for pre-flight planning, assessing risks, maintaining communication, and responding to emergencies. Ultimately, the Drone Pilot In Command ensures all aspects of the drone operation are conducted safely and legally.

Will drone pilots be in demand?

Drone pilots in command are expected to see increasing demand as industries such as agriculture, construction, film, and inspection expand their use of unmanned aerial systems. Certification, technical skills, and knowledge of regulations are important for employment opportunities in this growing field.

What is the highest salary for a drone pilot?

The highest salaries for a drone pilot in command can reach over $100,000 annually, especially for experienced professionals working in specialized industries such as film production, surveying, or infrastructure inspection. Factors influencing high pay include advanced certifications, extensive flight hours, and expertise with high-end drone equipment and software.

How much do drone show pilots make?

Drone Pilot In Command salaries vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of drone shows, but they typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour. Experienced pilots with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher rates, especially for large or high-profile events.

What is the highest paying drone job?

The highest paying drone jobs typically involve specialized roles such as drone cinematography for film and television, industrial inspection, or surveying in sectors like energy and construction. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, with salaries reaching six figures for experienced professionals working on large projects or in high-demand industries.

What is the difference between Drone Pilot In Command vs Drone Operator?

AspectDrone Pilot In CommandDrone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot CertificateMay also hold Part 107 or other certifications, but less emphasis on command authority
Work EnvironmentResponsible for flight operations, safety, and compliance during drone missionsAssists with drone setup, data collection, and post-flight tasks
Employer & IndustryCommercial drone services, aerial photography, surveying, inspectionSupport roles within the same industries, often working under the Pilot In Command

The main difference is that the Drone Pilot In Command holds the legal responsibility for drone flights, including safety and compliance, while the Drone Operator typically assists with operational tasks. Both roles often work together, but the Pilot In Command has the final authority and accountability during flights.

What are the common challenges faced by a Drone Pilot In Command when operating in diverse environments?

As a Drone Pilot In Command, you may frequently encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, complying with evolving airspace regulations, and coordinating with on-site teams in unfamiliar or complex locations. Each environment—urban, rural, or industrial—presents unique obstacles, like signal interference or restricted access. Effective communication, strong situational awareness, and thorough pre-flight planning are essential to ensure safe and successful operations in any setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drone Pilot In Command, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Pilot In Command, you need strong piloting skills, knowledge of aviation regulations, and typically a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS systems, and various drone platforms is essential for safe and efficient operations. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for handling unexpected situations and coordinating with teams. These competencies ensure safe, compliant, and successful drone missions across diverse industries.
What are popular job titles related to Drone Pilot In Command jobs in California? For Drone Pilot In Command jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Pilot In Command jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Pilot In Command jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Drone Pilot In Command jobs? Cities in California with the most Drone Pilot In Command job openings:
Infographic showing various Drone Pilot In Command job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Supervisory Aircraft Instructor

USDA APHIS | APHIS Careers

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$106K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

You will serve as the Supervisory Aircraft Flight Instructor/Training Officer (FITO) for the USDA, Animal Plant Health Inspection Service - Wildlife Services (WS) Aviation Program is responsible for the evaluation and analysis of the aviation safety and flight crew proficiency for all rotary or fixed wing aviation activities that fall within WS operations and research programs.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
Minimum eligibility requirements for positions in this occupation are based on possession of the appropriate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificates and/or appropriate military ratings, meeting the applicable flight hour requirements, and possession of the knowledge and skills required for the positions.
Medical Requirements
At the time of initial appointment, candidates for all pilot positions must possess a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations; both meet the intent of the requirement. If an agency decides, for example, not to accept the second-class medical certificate, the rationale for the decision should be based upon the requirements of the position, and should be thoroughly described in agency operating material. Staff specialists not involved in the operation of aircraft need only have a medical examination indicating that they are able to perform the duties of the position to be filled. For flight test pilots, airspace system inspection pilots, and Customs pilots, all candidates must possess a current first class medical certificate at the time of appointment.
Certificates and Ratings:
For all grade levels and specializations, candidates must possess a current Commercial Pilot Certificate or the appropriate military rating; both meet the intent of the requirement. If an agency decides, for example, not to accept the military rating, the rationale for the decision should be based upon the requirements of the position and should be thoroughly described in agency operating material. For flight instructor positions, the FAA Flight Instructor Certificate or the military equivalent rating is also required. The pilot certificate must include the rating(s) appropriate to the work of the position to be filled. For example, a position that involves flying a multi-engine airplane to various destinations under instrument flight rules would require the Commercial Pilot Certificate with the airplane, multi-engine, and instrument ratings or appropriate U.S. military ratings. Positions that require flying or instructing in flying both airplanes and helicopters require a rating in both categories. Only those ratings necessary to perform the work are required.
Note:
Candidates establishing eligibility based on military flight experience must provide official orders, forms, or logbooks showing their status as a rated military pilot, flight instructor, or flight examiner, as appropriate. Other certificates that meet or exceed the requirements of the Commercial Pilot Certificate are also acceptable, e.g., an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
Minimum Flight Hour Requirements:
  1. Total Flight Time --1500 HRS- Flight time as pilot-in-command or copilot in aircraft of any weight or category is creditable for this requirement.
  2. Pilot-In-Command -- 250 HRS- Only flight hours acquired as pilot-in-command are creditable.
  3. Night Flying -- 75 HRS-- For in service placement actions at the GS-11 level and above, 25 hours may be waived if the candidate demonstrates the ability to perform the work.
  4. Flying Time, Last 12 Months --100 HRS-- Required only for positions that involve flying. The flight hours specified apply to competitive appointments.
  5. Instructor Time --500 HRS-- Must be related to the nature of the instruction work and the category of aircraft operated (i.e., airplane or helicopter) in the position to be filled. If the purpose of the position is to provide instruction in instrument flight techniques, one-half of the flight time must have involved instrument instruction in either airplanes or helicopters.
In addition to the meeting the above criteria you must also show the specialized experience below
:FOR THE GS-13 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-12 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
  • Experience operating single engine, tail wheel aircraft at low airspeeds (generally 60 knots or less), at typical altitudes from ground level to 200 feet.
  • Flying over unfavorable terrain (e.g., mountains, forests, or deserts) with responsibility for operating from confined or isolated areas primarily under visual flight conditions.
  • Experience providing instruction and evaluations in tail wheel aircraft at low airspeeds (generally 60 knots or less), at typical altitudes from ground level to 200 feet and conducting off airfield landings.
  • Demonstrated competency in the operations involving single engine, tail wheel aircraft on improved and unimproved landing areas, including roads and other open areas.
  • Piloted an airplane with a crewmember, gunner, or observer on board for the purpose of conducting natural resource or wildlife management missions.
Note: There is no education substitution for this grade level.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:This position does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER