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Drone Pilot Military Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Talmadge Group

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Drone Pilot - GSDF 911th Support BN

Ellenwood, GA · On-site

$32K - $41K/yr

This is a volunteer military service position offering qualified candidates the opportunity to develop and enhance their drone piloting skills through additional training and real-world practical ...

New

XTEND

Flight Operations Drone Pilot

Tampa, FL · On-site

$48K - $57K/yr

Description The Flight Operations Drone Pilot is responsible for the safe operation, mission ... Military aviation or UAS operational experience * Experience conducting developmental testing ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA

$103K - $179K/yr

SOF or tactical military experience with UAS integration * Instructor or evaluator experience in UAS operations * Experience with FPV system builds, soldering, and fabrication * Familiarity with ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA · On-site

$103K - $179K/yr

SOF or tactical military experience with UAS integration * Instructor or evaluator experience in UAS operations * Experience with FPV system builds, soldering, and fabrication * Familiarity with ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA · On-site

$103K - $179K/yr

SOF or tactical military experience with UAS integration * Instructor or evaluator experience in UAS operations * Experience with FPV system builds, soldering, and fabrication * Familiarity with ...

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Drone Pilot Military information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do drone pilot military jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone pilot military in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the drone pilot military position?

To thrive as a Drone Pilot Military, you need comprehensive knowledge of aviation principles, strong spatial awareness, decision-making abilities, and a relevant military or FAA certification. Experience with remote piloting systems, surveillance equipment, and mission planning software is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring mission success, operational safety, and effective teamwork in high-stakes environments.

Does the military hire drone pilots?

Yes, the military hires drone pilots to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat missions. These roles typically require specialized training, security clearances, and often a background in aviation or related fields.

What is a drone pilot military?

A military drone pilot operates unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance, reconnaissance, combat, and intelligence missions. They control drones remotely, analyze real-time data, and coordinate with ground forces to support military operations. Drone pilots undergo specialized training in aviation, navigation, and weapons systems. This role is critical for modern warfare, providing strategic and tactical advantages while minimizing risk to personnel.

How much do military drone pilots make?

Military drone pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on rank, experience, and location. They often require specialized training and security clearances, and may receive additional benefits such as housing allowances and healthcare.

How to become a drone pilot in the military?

To become a military drone pilot, individuals typically need to enlist in the armed forces and complete basic training, followed by specialized training in unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Candidates often require a high school diploma or equivalent, pass security and medical clearances, and develop skills in aviation, technology, and remote operation. Certification in drone operation and experience with relevant software or hardware can enhance qualifications.

How hard is it to become a military drone pilot?

Becoming a military drone pilot requires meeting specific military enlistment criteria, completing basic training, and gaining specialized training in drone operations. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass physical and background checks, and develop skills in remote piloting, often through military programs or certifications. The process involves rigorous training and adherence to strict operational protocols.

What does a drone pilot military do?

A typical day for a military drone pilot involves pre-mission briefings, conducting flight and equipment checks, remotely piloting unmanned aircraft for surveillance or reconnaissance missions, and monitoring live data feeds. Drone pilots often collaborate closely with intelligence analysts, mission planners, and command personnel to relay critical information and adapt to changing mission parameters. After each mission, they document operational outcomes and debrief with their team. The role can involve irregular hours, including nights and weekends, particularly during active missions or deployments. This dynamic environment requires adaptability, strong teamwork, and consistent focus on safety and mission objectives.

More about Drone Pilot Military jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Pilot Military jobs? Cities with the most Drone Pilot Military job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Pilot Military jobs? The most popular types of Drone Pilot Military jobs are:
What states have the most Drone Pilot Military jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Pilot Military jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Pilot Military jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Pilot Military jobs are:
Drone Pilot Military jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Pilot Military job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Drone Pilot - GSDF 911th Support BN

The Talmadge Group

Ellenwood, GA • On-site

$32K - $41K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

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Job description

Drone Pilot – 911th Support Battalion

Volunteer Military Service | Georgia

Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF)

Volunteer & Turn Your Drone Skills Into Service


The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) is seeking qualified individuals interested in serving as Drone Pilots with the 911th Support Battalion’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) unit.


This is a volunteer military service position offering qualified candidates the opportunity to develop and enhance their drone piloting skills through additional training and real-world practical application while serving the citizens of Georgia.


About the 911th UAS

The 911th UAS is the Georgia State Defense Force’s specialized small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) unit. The unit provides real-time aerial reconnaissance, situational awareness, and information products in support of GSDF commanders and operational elements.


911th UAS pilots operate both battery-powered and tethered drone systems equipped with advanced technologies, including:

  • Visual imaging
  • Thermal imaging
  • Infrared (IR) capabilities
  • LiDAR technology
  • Real-time aerial reconnaissance and observation systems


What You’ll Do

As a Volunteer GSDF Drone Pilot, you may have opportunities to:

  • Operate sUAS platforms during training and operational missions
  • Provide real-time aerial reconnaissance and situational awareness
  • Support emergency response, disaster operations, training exercises, and other authorized GSDF missions
  • Develop flight planning, mission execution, and aerial observation skills
  • Gain experience with advanced drone sensors and imaging technologies
  • Work as part of a disciplined UAS team supporting commanders in the field
  • Participate in additional GSDF UAS training and professional development


Qualifications

All 911th UAS pilots are qualified through the Georgia State Defense Force and are required to become FAA Part 107 Remote Pilots.

Candidates should have an interest in aviation, drone operations, technology, emergency response, or public service. Previous drone experience is valuable, but candidates interested in developing their skills are encouraged to explore Volunteer Opportunities with the GSDF, their eligibility and training requirements.


Why Serve with the GSDF?

This is more than an opportunity to fly drones. It is an opportunity to apply your skills to a mission that matters.

Qualified members can gain additional training and practical experience while working with sophisticated UAS technology and supporting real-world missions throughout Georgia.


Important: This is a volunteer position with the Georgia State Defense Force and is not traditional paid employment. Membership and assignment are subject to GSDF eligibility, training, and organizational requirements.


Ready to Learn More?

Visit the Georgia State Defense Force website to determine whether you qualify for this position and explore other opportunities to serve:

https://gsdf.georgia.gov/


Serve Georgia. Develop your skills. Put your experience to work on a mission that matters.


For ZipRecruiter, I would make “Volunteer Military Service” very prominent in both the title and opening paragraph. That reduces the likelihood of applicants assuming this is a conventional salaried drone-pilot job while still positioning the training and real-world UAS experience as a significant benefit.

Note: Funding to support this Volunteer Recruitment advertising for this volunteer position was donated by The Talmadge Group, Inc.