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Drone Pilot Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

SME

Reality Capture Technician

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot License or ability to obtain within the first year of employment. * OSHA 10 Construction Safety certification. * Experience working with survey control and licensed surveyors.

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

Pilot

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

The Second-in-Command reports functionally to the Pilot-in-Command during the assigned flight and administratively to the Chief Pilot on other matters. * Assists the PIC in the safe and efficient ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Elkhart, IN

$82K/yr

Overview J Helicopter Pilot - Elkhart, IN Memorial MedFlight EC145 / IFR $15,000 Location Stipend Off Duty Housing available $15,000 Sign-on Bonus AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader ...

Cook Group

Pilot

Bloomington, IN · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

The pilot exercises extreme care and judgement to ensure safety of passengers and company property, and transports under varying weather and ground conditions in the safest manner possible.

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Indianapolis, IN

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Indianapolis, IN

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Evansville, IN

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Indianapolis, IN

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Evansville, IN

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

PHI Air Medical

VFR Pilot

Rushville, IN

Sign‐On Bonus up to $50,000 Location Bonus up to 12.5% Off‐Duty Housing available PHI Health is seeking skilled and dedicated pilots to join our elite team. You will be at the forefront of ...

PHI Air Medical

VFR Pilot

Rushville, IN

Sign‐On Bonus up to $50,000 Location Bonus up to 12.5% Off‐Duty Housing available PHI Health is seeking skilled and dedicated pilots to join our elite team. You will be at the forefront of ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Evansville, IN

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Indianapolis, IN

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Evansville, IN

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Evansville, IN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location 15K Sign on Bonus 40K Retention Bonus after 3 years On Duty Housing ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrone Pilot JobsDrone Pilot Jobs in Indiana

Drone Pilot information

See Indiana salary details

$47.1K

$124.6K

$191.3K

How much do drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone pilot in Indiana is $124,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $147,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Drone Pilot vs Drone Photographer?

AspectDrone PilotDrone Photographer
CertificationsFAA Part 107 licenseFAA Part 107 license (often required)
Work EnvironmentVarious industries including construction, agriculture, filmPhotography and videography projects
Job FocusOperating drones for data collection or inspectionCapturing images and videos with drones
Employer UsageCommercial companies, government agenciesMedia companies, event organizers, real estate

While both Drone Pilots and Drone Photographers operate drones, Drone Pilots focus on flying and operating drones for various purposes like inspections or mapping, often requiring a license. Drone Photographers specialize in capturing high-quality images and videos, often for media or marketing, and may also need certification. The roles overlap but differ mainly in their primary objectives and end-use of drone operations.

Is there a demand for drone pilots?

The demand for drone pilots is growing across industries such as photography, agriculture, construction, and inspection services. Employers seek certified pilots skilled in operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and adhering to regulations, leading to increased job opportunities in this field.

Do drone pilots make money?

Drone pilots can earn income through various roles such as aerial photography, surveying, inspection, and filmmaking. Earnings depend on experience, location, and the complexity of projects, with many pilots working freelance or for companies on a contract basis. Salaries or project fees typically range from hourly rates to fixed project costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Pilot, you need solid knowledge of aviation regulations, flight planning, and piloting skills, typically supported by a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107 in the U.S.) or equivalent. Familiarity with drone-specific software, GPS systems, and high-resolution cameras is essential for operating and maintaining UAVs effectively. Strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and legal operation of drones in diverse environments.

What are some common challenges drone pilots face when working in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Drone Pilots often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, strict airspace regulations, and technical malfunctions. To address these, it's important to conduct thorough pre-flight planning, stay updated on local regulations, and carry backup equipment. Working closely with clients and team members to set clear expectations and maintain open communication also helps ensure smooth operations and successful project delivery.

How much do drone pilots earn?

Drone pilots typically earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks. Salaries can range from around $30,000 to over $80,000 annually for full-time positions, especially for those with specialized skills or certifications in industries like filmmaking, surveying, or inspection.

What is a drone pilot?

Drone pilots are professionals trained to remotely operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. They use drones for various tasks such as aerial photography, surveying, mapping, inspection, agriculture, and delivery services. Drone pilots must follow aviation regulations and often require certification, depending on their country and the nature of their work. Their role involves planning flight paths, ensuring safety, maintaining equipment, and analyzing data gathered by the drone. As drone technology expands, the demand for skilled drone pilots continues to grow across multiple industries.

How much do drone pilots get?

Drone pilots typically earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks. Salaries can range from around $30,000 to over $100,000 annually for full-time positions, especially for those with specialized skills or certifications in industries like filmmaking, surveying, or inspection.

What do drone pilots do?

The primary responsibilities of a drone pilot are to control and maintain an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). You can find drone pilot positions with both the military and other governmental organizations, as well as private companies, such as agricultural operations, film and television production companies, surveyors and mapping specialists, and environmental scientists. As a pilot, you perform a variety of duties, such as flying reconnaissance and taking aerial photography and aerial videography. In the military context, drone pilots operate UAVs which bomb targets from across the world.

More about Drone Pilot jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Pilot jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Drone Pilot jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Drone Pilot jobs in Indiana? For Drone Pilot jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Pilot jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Pilot jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Drone Pilot jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Drone Pilot job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Drone Pilot jobs in IN? For Drone Pilot jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Drone Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Pilot job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,575 per year, or $59.9 per hour.

Reality Capture Technician

SME

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

The Opportunity:
SME is seeking a Reality Capture Technician to support our surveying and reality capture services across northeast Indiana and surrounding markets. This position is a hands-on technical role responsible for collecting, processing, and delivering high-quality spatial data using laser scanning, photogrammetry, and related technologies.
The Reality Capture Technician works closely with licensed surveyors, engineers, architects, and project managers to support mapping, design, construction, and documentation efforts. This role is focused on field execution, data quality, and reliable delivery, with clear expectations and defined responsibilities.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform terrestrial laser scanning, mobile scanning, drone-based photogrammetry, and 360° imagery at active project sites.
  • Plan and execute field work including equipment setup, calibration, scanning operations, and demobilization.
  • Process and register scan and imagery data into accurate point clouds and visual deliverables using established SME workflows.
  • Perform QA/QC on all collected and processed data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with project requirements.
  • Coordinate with Survey, Civil, Architectural, Structural, Geotechnical, and Construction teams to integrate reality capture data into project deliverables.
  • Operate, maintain, transport, and troubleshoot reality capture equipment including laser scanners, and drones.
  • Maintain clear documentation of field activities, scan locations, control usage, and project metadata.
  • Assist with internal training related to equipment operation and data handling.
  • Support continuous improvement of SME's reality capture standards, procedures, and workflows.
  • Travel locally and regionally as required; occasional overnight travel may be necessary.

Required Qualifications:
  • Associate degree in Surveying, Drafting, Engineering Technology, GIS, Construction, or a related technical field - or equivalent practical experience.
  • 2-5 years of direct experience in reality capture, LiDAR, laser scanning, or photogrammetry.
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience performing field-based laser scanning and/or photogrammetry.
  • Proficiency with Autodesk ReCap and familiarity with Civil 3D and/or Revit.
  • Experience with Leica (Register 360 / Cyclone), Trimble, or comparable scanning platforms.
  • Valid driver's license with the ability to travel to job sites.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work outdoors in varying terrain and weather conditions.
  • Strong attention to detail, organization, and technical documentation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a project team.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot License or ability to obtain within the first year of employment.
  • OSHA 10 Construction Safety certification.
  • Experience working with survey control and licensed surveyors.
  • Exposure to Scan-to-BIM, VDC, MEP, or construction coordination workflows.
  • Experience mentoring or training junior technical staff.

SME's Core Values:
  • Honesty and Integrity
  • Respect
  • Selfless Service
  • Teamwork
  • Practical Solutions

Benefits:
At SME, we believe that taking care of our employees is the cornerstone of our success. Our commitment to your well-being goes beyond a job- it is about helping you thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a benefits package that is not simply meeting an expectation, but a key component of your overall job satisfaction. The following list highlights many of the benefits SME offers its employees.
  • SME provides Medical, Dental, and Vision after 30 days of employment.
  • SME covers the premium cost of medical insurance so that you and your families never have to worry about the costs of healthcare.
  • 401k match
  • Yearly profit sharing that goes directly into your 401k
  • Yearly performance bonuses
  • Yearly wage evaluations
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Competitive Paid Time Off
  • Volunteer Time Off

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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