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Drone Pilot Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Air Evac Lifeteam

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Athens, AL · 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

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Athens, AL · 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 ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Hartselle, AL

Naval Aviation Officer (Pilot / Naval Flight Officer / AMDO) Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Naval Aviation Officers serve as Pilots, Naval Flight Officers, and Aviation Maintenance ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Athens, AL

Naval Aviation Officer (Pilot / Naval Flight Officer / AMDO) Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Naval Aviation Officers serve as Pilots, Naval Flight Officers, and Aviation Maintenance ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Harvest, AL

Naval Aviation Officer (Pilot / Naval Flight Officer / AMDO) Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Naval Aviation Officers serve as Pilots, Naval Flight Officers, and Aviation Maintenance ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Madison, AL

Naval Aviation Officer (Pilot / Naval Flight Officer / AMDO) Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Naval Aviation Officers serve as Pilots, Naval Flight Officers, and Aviation Maintenance ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Decatur, AL

Naval Aviation Officer (Pilot / Naval Flight Officer / AMDO) Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Naval Aviation Officers serve as Pilots, Naval Flight Officers, and Aviation Maintenance ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Lexington, AL

Naval Aviation Officer (Pilot / Naval Flight Officer / AMDO) Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Naval Aviation Officers serve as Pilots, Naval Flight Officers, and Aviation Maintenance ...

COLSA Corporation

sUAS Technician

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... pilot drone following a specific flight plan or obtaining useful footage At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with ...

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Showing results 21-39

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.

External / Internal Pilot Position

Griffon Aerospace

Madison, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Company OverviewGriffon Aerospace is a trusted aerospace solutions provider based in Madison, Alabama, specializing in the design, development, and operation of advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Since 1995, we have delivered over 12,000 unmanned air vehicles to the Department of Defense, allied nations, and commercial customers. We pride ourselves on being a lion-hearted partner, designing, building, and flying the most capable and intelligent aerial systems that give our servicemen an unfair advantage wherever they flyPosition SummaryWe are seeking (2) External-Internal Pilot Position. The candidate will work in a rapid development environment where the projects will progress from design, fabrication, assembly, and flight test phases in a short period of time. The successful candidate will be a highly organized self-starter who has direct, hands-on experience assembling, modifying, repairing, and flying aerial targets. The candidate must have strong prototyping experience and be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. Required QualificationsFAA Part 107 (in command) Certification for UAS Pilot.FAA Class II medical certificate, or ability to qualify.1 Year of Commercial UAS Piloting ExperiencePiccolo Experience A MustUnderstanding of The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and experience in UAS industryMust be able to utilize a variety of computer applications including MS Office, and other on-line cloud storage and data transfer tools.Experience with carbon fiber, fiberglass, and resinHave hands-on experience with aircraft system assembly processesHave experience with common hand tools and power toolsMust be able to read drawings and shop planning/work instructionsMust have a safety-oriented attitude on and off-siteExcellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate with all levels of management, staff, customers, and industrySelected candidates will be required to complete a flight skills assessment using a small multi-rotor trainer aircraft and a fixed-wing aircraftJOB LOCATIONMadison, Alabama, United StatesPOSITION TYPEFull-Time/Regular/HourlyCOMPENSATION/BENEFITSCompetitive Salary/Comprehensive Benefits PackageUS CITIZENSHIP REQUIREDYesABILITY TO OBTAIN SECURITY CLEARANCEYes 
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