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Drone Pilot In Command Jobs in Hampton, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Drone Pilot In Command information

See Hampton, VA salary details

$47.8K

$126.5K

$194.3K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone pilot in command in Hampton, VA is $126,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,600.00 and $149,800.00 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 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 Hampton, VA?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Drone Pilot In Command jobs in Hampton, VA are:

What cities near Hampton, VA are hiring for Drone Pilot In Command jobs?

Cities near Hampton, VA 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 Hampton, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,522 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Air Operations Squadron - Augmentee Senior Controller

BLUEFORCE INC

Hampton, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

BlueForce Inc. is seeking for Augmentee Senior Controllers in support of the USAF Air Combat Command (HQ ACC)'s Air Operations Squadron at Langley AFB, VA. 
Are you open to rotating shifts and working a few hours a month? Would you enjoy working up to 12 shifts over a three-month period? Are you a retired military pilot, fighter/tanker pilot, WSO, or navigator? If you have the technical expertise to ensure that military aircrew safely execute worldwide aircraft movement/air refueling missions, then this position is for you.
Duties and Responsibilities

  • Ensure that military aircrew safely executes worldwide aircraft movement/air refueling missions.
  • Ensure mission execution requirements have been identified, coordinated, and finalized.
  • Ensure the Go/No Go mission checklist is completed, and timely and correct mission decisions are made prior to execution.
  • Oversee scheduling, preparing, tracking, and maintaining records on scheduled missions.
  • Develop a comprehensive training program that encompasses all aspects of government provided training objectives.
  • Complete the AOS closing checklist as required.
  • To cover MCC mission requirements in case of scheduled or unscheduled Senior Controller absences and/or during contingency operations.
  • Previous or current DoD Secret clearance
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Minimum 10 years of qualified experience as a military Pilot or Navigator or at least 10 years of qualified experience as a Technical Controller in the Mission Control Center.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
  • Prior CORONET experience either as a delivery control officer or have participated in an overwater aircraft delivery as either a fighter or tanker crew member is highly desirable

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