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Drone Pilot In Command Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA ...

NetJets & EJM

Pilot in Command Falcon 7X

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$160K - $275K/yr

Pilot in Command: 2000 hours * PIC MEL: 500 hours * Instrument: 300 hours * Jet: 500 hours Base Salary Range Cabin Size Small/Mid/Supermid $160,000 - $275,000 Large/Heavy/Premium $200,000 - $325,000 ...

OSF HealthCare

Air Ambulance Pilot SPIFR EC145

Peru, IL · On-site

$93.12 - $117.79/hr

Experience: * 2000 Hours Total time: * 1500 Hours Helicopter. * 1000 Hours Helicopter Pilot in Command (PIC). * 100 Hours Helicopter Night Unaided. * 75 Hours Instrument / Hood (50 helicopter in ...

OSF HealthCare

Air Ambulance Pilot SPIFR EC145

Galesburg, IL · On-site

$93.12 - $117.79/hr

Experience: * 2000 Hours Total time * 1500 Hours Helicopter * 1000 Hours Helicopter Pilot in Command (PIC) * 100 Hours Helicopter Night Unaided * 75 Hours Instrument / Hood (50 helicopter in flight ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Rotor Wing Pilot

Watson, IL · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

... pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours unaided with 100 hours ... aided Previous HAA experience or equivalent - preferred Education and Credentials: Rotorcraft ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Rotor Wing Pilot

Watson, IL · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

... pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours unaided with 100 hours ... aided Previous HAA experience or equivalent - preferred Education and Credentials: Rotorcraft ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Columbus, IL · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

... pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours unaided with 100 hours ... aided Previous HAA experience or equivalent - preferred Education and Credentials: Rotorcraft ...

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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.

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 Illinois?

For Drone Pilot In Command jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Pilot In Command jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Pilot In Command jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Drone Pilot In Command jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Drone Pilot In Command job openings:

Drone Pilot In Command jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Pilot In Command job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

TSMG
See more jobs at TSMGexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and certified Drone Pilot to operate and manage drone operations for various projects. As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting skills, and the ability to analyze aerial data. 

Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping, inspection, and videography.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections.
  • Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition.
  • Follow all FAA regulations and safety guidelines during drone operations.
  • Plan flight paths and adjust them as necessary based on environmental conditions.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret aerial data for reporting and project needs.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure project goals are met.
  • Maintain detailed records of flights, including time, locations, and data collected.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drone equipment.
  • Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and regulations related to drone operations.
Qualifications:
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or equivalent).
  • 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 to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to analyze data and present findings clearly.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with specific drone models (e.g., DJI, Parrot).
  • Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications.
  • Previous experience in (e.g., construction, agriculture, film).
We would be happy to get to know you and your skills better and see how we can support each other's growth.

Please apply and let's meet!

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.