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Drone Pilot In Command Jobs in Santa Ana, CA (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Pilot in Command (PIC)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

PILOT IN COMMAND (PIC) SpaceX is seeking an experienced Pilot in Command (PIC) to join our Aviation team. You will have the opportunity to fly both domestically and internationally from local ...

SpaceX

Pilot in Command (PIC)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

PILOT IN COMMAND (PIC) SpaceX is seeking an experienced Pilot in Command (PIC) to join our Aviation team. You will have the opportunity to fly both domestically and internationally from local ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

We are building a talent network of experienced drone operations professionals for potential ... Conduct and oversee commercial drone operations in accordance with applicable regulations and ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

We are building a talent network of experienced drone operations professionals for potential ... Conduct and oversee commercial drone operations in accordance with applicable regulations and ...

SpaceX

Pilot in Command (PIC) (Hawthorne)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

PILOT IN COMMAND (PIC) SpaceX is seeking an experienced Pilot in Command (PIC) to join our Aviation team. You will have the opportunity to fly both domestically and internationally from local ...

Advanced Air LLC

King Air 350 - Check Pilot

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$55K - $178K/yr

Pilot in Command Responsibilities * Retain final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft per FAR 91.3 * Ensure aircraft airworthiness and completion of required inspections. * Maintain ...

ADVANCED AIR LLC

King Air 350 - Check Pilot

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$55K - $178K/yr

Pilot in Command Responsibilities * Retain final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft per FAR 91.3 * Ensure aircraft airworthiness and completion of required inspections. * Maintain ...

Orange County Fire Authority, CA

Fire Pilot

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$122K - $164K/yr

Incumbents serve as Pilot in Command (PlC) during a full range of helicopter missions including but not limited to missions related to fire suppression, are responsible for the safe overall operation ...

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All JobsDrone Pilot In Command JobsDrone Pilot In Command Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

Drone Pilot In Command information

See Santa Ana, CA salary details

$51.5K

$136.2K

$209.2K

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone pilot in command in Santa Ana, CA is $136,229.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,100.00 and $161,300.00 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 Santa Ana, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Drone Pilot In Command jobs in Santa Ana, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Pilot In Command jobs in Santa Ana, CA are:

What cities near Santa Ana, CA are hiring for Drone Pilot In Command jobs?

Cities near Santa Ana, CA with the most Drone Pilot In Command job openings:

Drone Pilot In Command jobs near you

Pilot in Command (PIC)

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

SpaceX
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about SpaceXexternal

$225K - $325K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

PILOT IN COMMAND (PIC)

SpaceX is seeking an experienced Pilot in Command (PIC) to join our Aviation team. You will have the opportunity to fly both domestically and internationally from local airports while flying various aircraft.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Serve as Pilot in Command, conducting domestic and international flights in compliance with FAA regulations and company standards.
  • Perform pre-flight planning, including weather analysis, route optimization, and fuel management.
  • Ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, including SpaceX executives and team members.
  • Maintain aircraft logs, complete post-flight reports, and adhere to all maintenance and operational protocols.
  • Collaborate with crew, air traffic control, and ground support to execute flawless missions.
  • Participate in ongoing training and proficiency checks to stay current on aviation best practices.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate 
  • 4,000+ hours total flight time
  • First class medical certificate

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Strong knowledge of FAR Part 91 operations and corporate aviation standards.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Boeing 737 Type Rating and/or Gulfstream G650 Type Rating.
  • 500+ hours in the Gulfstream GV series.
  • Experience in high-end corporate or executive transport operations.
  • Familiarity with advanced avionics and flight management systems.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Within 2-4 hour travel distance to LAX
  • Ability to work on an on-call basis
  • Current passport
  • Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 5: $225,000 - $325,000

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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