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Drone Pilot In Command Jobs in Bend, OR (NOW HIRING)

Epic Aircraft

Flight Instructor

Bend, OR · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Acting as pilot in command of Epic aircraft while performing corporate flight missions, including repositioning, ferry, internal training, post maintenance flights and delivery acceptance flights

Epic Aircraft

Flight Instructor

Bend, OR · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Acting as pilot in command of Epic aircraft while performing corporate flight missions, including repositioning, ferry, internal training, post maintenance flights and delivery acceptance flights

All JobsDrone Pilot In Command JobsDrone Pilot In Command Jobs in Bend, OR

Drone Pilot In Command information

See Bend, OR salary details

$52.2K

$138.1K

$212.1K

How much do drone pilot in command jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone pilot in command in Bend, OR is $138,116.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $163,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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?

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 Bend, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Drone Pilot In Command jobs in Bend, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Pilot In Command jobs in Bend, OR are:

What cities near Bend, OR are hiring for Drone Pilot In Command jobs?

Cities near Bend, OR 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 Bend, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $138,116 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Flight Instructor

Epic Aircraft

Bend, OR • On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Epic Aircraft rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

WHO WE ARE

Join the Team Building World-Class Aircraft. Epic Aircraft is a leading manufacturer of high-performance, all-carbon-fiber, single-engine turboprop aircraft. Driven by innovation, safety, and craftsmanship, we have earned a reputation as a premier aerospace manufacturer. Located in beautiful Bend, Oregon, Epic offers an exciting work environment surrounded by mountains, rivers, and year-round outdoor recreation. If you're looking for a career with growth opportunities, we'd love to meet you.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

As a member of the Flight Department, the Flight Instructor will instruct in and operate the fastest single-engine turboprop in the world, the Epic E1000, providing safe aircraft operation and outstanding customer service to customers and passengers. Your main tasks will consist of flight training, corporate missions, post-maintenance flights, and other assignments as needed. Initial Epic Factory Training will be provided at no cost.

Responsibilities

  • Providing standardized Initial and Recurrent ground and flight instruction to E1000 pilots
  • Acting as pilot in command of Epic aircraft while performing corporate flight missions, including repositioning, ferry, internal training, post maintenance flights and delivery acceptance flights
  • Maintaining communication with clients before and after training events
  • Escalating client and internal issues as appropriate to promote an amazing customer experience and collegial workplace
  • Facilitating the resolution of discrepancies on newly delivered and corporate aircraft
  • Operating Epic aircraft in accordance with applicable regulations and Epic company policies
  • Performing all required preflight preparation (including weather assessments)
  • Making and communicating timely and accurate decisions regarding the safety of flight
  • Completing all necessary paperwork and documentation for flights and travel expenses
  • Maintaining a deep level of aircraft knowledge and being a model aviator, flight instructor, and Epic representative

Additional duties may include:

  • Providing airshow sales support
  • Presentations to internal & external customers
  • Special projects and assignments as requested

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent education and work experience
  • Current and active FAA Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI and CFII)
    • Commercial Pilot ASEL, Instrument Airplane
    • Flight Instructor ASE, Instrument Airplane
    • Current 1st or 2nd Class Medical
  • 1500 hours Total
  • 750 hours Authorized Instructor
  • IFR Current
  • No Violations
  • Detailed knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations, air traffic control procedures, and aircraft systems
  • Confidentiality and Discretion
  • A Current Valid U.S. Passport is Required
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship

Desirable

  • Experience operating turbine aircraft in IFR, congested airspace, mountain flying, extensive IMC, and night
  • Recent instructing experience in military, part 142, part 141, or General Aviation
  • Recent instructing experience in turboprop or turbofan aircraft
  • Recent instructing experience in advanced avionics (e.g., G1000 NXi)
  • Experience providing instruction in simulators or training devices
  • Previous corporate flight experience
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace
  • Previous experience in training course development

COMPENSATION AND SCHEDULE

Monday – Friday
7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. occasional weekends and/or event support as needed

Salary Range: $80-$115k Annually DOE

BENEFITS AND CAREER GROWTH

At Epic Aircraft, we're committed to investing in our employees and providing opportunities for long-term success?

  • 100% paid Health, Vision, and Dental benefits for employees & 50% for dependents
  • 401k retirement plan with a 3% matching program
  • Company provided paid time off accrued each year
  • Seven paid holidays each year
  • Paid company shutdown between Christmas and New Year's Day
  • Discretionary year-end bonus program
  • Performance-based pay increases
  • Access to the Epic Aircraft Flying Club
  • Ongoing training and advancement opportunities
  • Supportive team environment and company-sponsored events

Additional Information

  • This position is located at Epic Headquarters in Bend, Oregon
  • Relocation Assistance is not provided

Epic Aircraft does not accept 3rd party agency solicitation requests

What Epic Aircraft employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

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