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Drone Pilot Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Performance Drone Works

sUAS Pilot

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of ...

Clayton Homes

Pilot Driver

Addison, AL · On-site

Pilot/Escort Driver Job Status: Full Time Department: Clayton Connect Work Schedule: Weekdays (Occasional Weekend) Reports to: Terminal Manager Amount of Travel Required: 2-3 Nights per Week The ...

Clayton Homes

Pilot Driver

Addison, AL · On-site

Pilot/Escort Driver Job Status: Full Time Department: Clayton Connect Work Schedule: Weekdays (Occasional Weekend) Reports to: Terminal Manager Amount of Travel Required: 2-3 Nights per Week The ...

Clayton Homes

Pilot Escort Driver

Addison, AL

Pilot/Escort Driver Job Status: Full Time Department: Clayton Connect Work Schedule: Weekdays (Occasional Weekend) Reports to: Terminal Manager Amount of Travel Required: 2-3 Nights per Week The ...

Clayton Homes

Pilot Escort Driver

Addison, AL · On-site

Pilot/Escort Driver Job Status: Full Time Department: Clayton Connect Work Schedule: Weekdays (Occasional Weekend) Reports to: Terminal Manager Amount of Travel Required: 2-3 Nights per Week The ...

Performance Drone Works

NPI Quality Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used ... Lead root cause and corrective action (RCCA) investigations for prototype and pilot build issues ...

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All JobsDrone Pilot JobsDrone Pilot Jobs in Decatur, AL

Drone Pilot information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$46.4K

$122.7K

$188.4K

How much do drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone pilot in Decatur, AL is $122,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,700.00 and $145,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 experienced professionals working in industries like filmmaking, surveying, or inspection, often requiring certifications and specialized skills.

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 drones and adhering to regulations, with opportunities increasing as drone technology becomes more integrated into various sectors.
More about Drone Pilot jobs

What job categories do people searching Drone Pilot jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Pilot jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Drone Pilot jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Drone Pilot job openings:

Drone Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Pilot job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,728 per year, or $59 per hour.

Maintenance Test Pilot

Strata-G Solutions

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

At Strata-G, we know it takes talented and dedicated people to deliver solutions for a greater cause, and we consider our employees to be our greatest asset. We are a growing, dynamic organization offering diverse challenges to innovative professionals.We are looking for a skilled and experienced Maintenance Test Pilot to join our team supporting CH-47 aircraft operations. In this role, you will oversee and conduct maintenance test flights, ensure compliance with company procedures and FAA regulations, and provide technical guidance on flight and ground operations. The ideal candidate will maintain required flight currency, uphold FAA medical standards, and contribute to the safe and efficient execution of all maintenance flight activitiesThis position is pending contract award. ResponsibilitiesHave and maintain an FAA Pilot Certificate (Drone part 107 optional, Commercial Instrument Rotary Wing mandatory)Coordinating Strata-G's Aviation Maintenance Test Flight Operations by preparing guidance, procedures, reviews, and assessments of all documented procedures, help improve/design test flight areas, improve safety of the assigned personnel in maintenance operations. Mentor junior employees in assigned aircraft, provide support to improve safety, quality, and compliance with established procedures.Being Responsible for Maintaining adequately trained personnel available to perform maintenance, and functional check tasks as required for efficient hangar operations.Being Responsible for ensuring that all assigned Personnel, Orientations, and Maintenance Requirements are Performed, Documented and in accordance with DCMA INST 8210 for DoD work, and FAA standards for Civil work. Responsible for maintaining government property and reporting within the scope of any Government Assigned/Provided/Furnished Equipment (GFE)Responsible to complete personal annual performance evaluations and test flight examinations.Provide hiring/firing input as a MTP/ME for assigned Aviation OperationsQualificationsBachelor's degree in relevant field or in lieu of degree, minimum of 5 years lead/supervisory experience. Military Flight School Graduation Certificate, no adverse actions that would disqualify aviation operations, and Federal Aviation Regulation compliance.FAA Pilot License or US Military Rating as Pilot, Maintenance Test Pilot, or Maintenance Examiner in rotary wing aircraft and/or Part 107 drone operationsEffective communication skillsExcellent Pilot and Leadership skillsTeam Building skillsKnowledge of FAA and Military flight requirements including airspace, weather, health and exogenous factorsMust be eligible for and able to maintain a Secret Clearance.
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