ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drone Pilot Jobs in Romeoville, IL (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting skills, and the ability to analyze aerial data. Your key responsibilities will include flying drones ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting skills, and the ability to analyze aerial data. Your key responsibilities will include flying drones ...

SAIC

ZAU - Remote Pilot Operator

Aurora, IL · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for a Casual, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidate to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Chicago ARTCC ...

SAIC

ZAU - Remote Pilot Operator

Aurora, IL · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Part-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Chicago ...

SAIC

ZAU - Remote Pilot Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for a Casual, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidate to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Chicago ARTCC ...

SAIC

ZAU - Remote Pilot Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Part-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Chicago ...

Flock

Field Deployment Specialist

Chicago, IL · Remote

$60K - $80K/yr

This isn't a drone pilot or flight operations role, your focus is strictly on physical infrastructure deployment, hardware installation, and field service rather than flying aircraft. * This is not a ...

Flock

Field Deployment Specialist

Chicago, IL

$60K - $80K/yr

This isn't a drone pilot or flight operations role, your focus is strictly on physical infrastructure deployment, hardware installation, and field service rather than flying aircraft. * This is not a ...

provide

Survey Party Chief

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Interest in learning UAV (drone) piloting Preferred Skills: * FAA Part 107 certification Benefits: * Company truck with gas card and per diem * Professional development, training, and college ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Chicago, IL · On-site

Primary Job Duties To be considered for a pilot position, you must: Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency ...

DBI Consultants

Project Manager II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Recognized industry credentials such as, International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC), Drone Pilot & Certified Thermographer (ITC), Registered Roof Consultant (RRC), Registered ...

DBI Consultants

Project Manager II

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$110K - $135K/yr

Recognized industry credentials such as, International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC), Drone Pilot & Certified Thermographer (ITC), Registered Roof Consultant (RRC), Registered ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrone Pilot JobsDrone Pilot Jobs in Romeoville, IL

Drone Pilot information

See Romeoville, IL salary details

$50.5K

$133.5K

$204.9K

How much do drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone pilot in Romeoville, IL is $133,483.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,000.00 and $158,000.00 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 Romeoville, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Pilot jobs in Romeoville, IL are:

What cities near Romeoville, IL are hiring for Drone Pilot jobs?

Cities near Romeoville, IL with the most Drone Pilot job openings:

Drone Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Pilot job openings in Romeoville, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 85% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,483 per year, or $64.2 per hour.

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

TSMG
See more jobs at TSMGexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and certified Drone Pilot to operate and manage drone operations for various projects. As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting skills, and the ability to analyze aerial data. 

Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping, inspection, and videography.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections.
  • Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition.
  • Follow all FAA regulations and safety guidelines during drone operations.
  • Plan flight paths and adjust them as necessary based on environmental conditions.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret aerial data for reporting and project needs.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure project goals are met.
  • Maintain detailed records of flights, including time, locations, and data collected.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drone equipment.
  • Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and regulations related to drone operations.
Qualifications:
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or equivalent).
  • Proven experience operating drones in various settings.
  • Strong technical knowledge of drone systems and software (e.g., mapping and modeling software).
  • Excellent spatial awareness and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to analyze data and present findings clearly.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with specific drone models (e.g., DJI, Parrot).
  • Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications.
  • Previous experience in (e.g., construction, agriculture, film).
We would be happy to get to know you and your skills better and see how we can support each other's growth.

Please apply and let's meet!

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.