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Drone Pilot In Command Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA

$170K - $190K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft ...

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/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 ...

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/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

East Garrison, CA · On-site

$187.40 - $250/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone pilot in command?

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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Security Drone Pilot and Editor - FAA License Required

Allied Universal

Wilmington, CA • On-site

$26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Allied Universal rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 2,576 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 116 rated security


Job description

Overview

Company Overview:

Allied Universal, North America's leading security and facility services company, offers rewarding careers that provide you a sense of purpose. While working in a dynamic, welcoming, and collaborative workplace, you will be part of a team that contributes to a culture that positively impacts the communities and customers we serve.

Job Description

Allied Universal Services is currently searching for a Security Drone Pilot and Editor - FAA License Required.

The Shift Security Supervisor will supervise and coordinate the delivery of quality services on a specific shift at an assigned customer. The Security Shift Supervisor will act as a liaison between site supervisor, Account Manager/Field Operations Manager and professional security officers. Supervise staff on assigned shift, providing coaching, recognition and discipline within approved empowerment range.

FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot License Required

Video Editing Experience

*Security License and TWIC can be sponsored if Drone Pilot requirements are met!*

$26.00 Hourly

Full Time

Qualifications/Requirements:

  • At least 18 years of age
  • Possess a high school diploma or equivalent, or 5 years verifiable experience
  • Must possess effective written and oral communication and interpersonal skills with ability to deal with all levels of personnel and the general public in a professional and effective manner; must be able to use initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines
  • Must be able to frequently prepare written reports and logs in neat, legible handwriting;
  • Must be able to read and understand all operating procedures and instructions
  • Licensing requirements are subject to state and/or local laws and regulations and may be required prior to employment.

  • Driving Positions: must possess a valid Driver's License with at least one year of driving experience, a clean driving record (no major violations within last 36 months, no more than 1 accident in last 24 months, no more than one minor moving violation in last 24 months), a minimum level of insurance as required by Company policy, and the ability to safely operate a vehicle required.

  • As a condition of employment, employee must successfully complete a background investigation and a post-offer/pre-employment drug/alcohol test, may be required to pass Drivers Record check
  • Intermediate computer skills to utilize innovative, wireless technology at client specific sites
  • Ability to handle both common and crisis situations at the client site, calmly and efficiently
  • Display exceptional customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to handle crisis situations at the client site, calmly and efficiently

BENEFITS:

  • Medical, dental, vision, basic life, AD&D, and disability insurance
  • Enrollment in our company's 401(k)plan
  • Seven holidays annually paid at time and a half, if worked
  • 40 hours of vacation after one year of employment at eligible work assignments; unused vacation is only paid out where required by law

PPO 14417

Closing

Allied Universal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, age, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or relationship/association with a protected veteran, or any other basis or characteristic protected by law. For more information: www.aus.com

If you have difficulty using the online system and require an alternate method to apply or require an accommodation, please contact our local Human Resources department. To find an office near you, please visit: www.aus.com/offices.

Requisition ID2026-1648896Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Allied Universal employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Allied Universal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Allied Universal® is a leading security and facility services company. We provide proactive security services and cutting-edge smart technology to deliver evolving, tailored solutions that allow our clients to focus on their core business. Our excellence starts with our local leadership and local presence. Operating in more than 90 countries, our global workforce of approximately 800,000 people. Employees help to deliver our promise globally and locally: keeping people safe so our customers and communities can thrive. As we build the world's best services company, we continue to expand our footprint and infrastructure on a global and local level. In North America, we operate our business under the existing Allied Universal brand, and our international business operates under the G4S brand.

Industry

Investigation and physical security services, chemical manufacturing and real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Ana, CA, US