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Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot - Independent Contractor Join the Founding Team at PhotoDrone.com ® Location: South Florida (Broward, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, and surrounding areas) Are you an experienced ...

Veteran-friendly

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

In Kansas, if the new pilot completes 25 credits within 30 days, both the referrer and the new pilot will receive $100 each. Apply now to become a valued member of our network of skilled drone ...

Responsibilities The Drone Pilot Inspection Specialist is responsible for performing image data collection using high‑resolution cameras via Android or iOS devices, as well as drones. This includes ...

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Drone Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone pilot 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 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.

What cities are hiring for Drone Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Drone Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Drone Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Drone Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Pilot jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Drone Pilot jobs? For Drone Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Drone Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% As Needed, and 80% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

FAA-107 Drone Pilot with equipment

PhotoDrone.com®

Fort Lauderdale, FL • Remote

Veteran-friendly

$90/hr

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

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Job description

FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot – Independent Contractor

Join the Founding Team at PhotoDrone.com®

Location: South Florida (Broward, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, and surrounding areas)

Are you an experienced FAA Part 107-certified drone pilot looking to grow your business while working with an exciting new company?

PhotoDrone.com® is launching in South Florida with the vision of becoming one of America's premier providers of professional drone photography services. We are building a network of highly qualified independent drone pilots who share our commitment to professionalism, safety, and outstanding customer service.

This is an opportunity to become one of our founding pilots as we launch locally and expand throughout Florida and eventually nationwide.

What We Do

PhotoDrone.com® connects residential, commercial, and government clients with skilled FAA-certified drone pilots for a wide range of aerial imaging services, including:

  • Real estate photography
  • Commercial properties
  • Construction progress documentation
  • Roofing and insurance inspections
  • Marketing and promotional photography
  • Accident scene documentation
  • Special events
  • Additional commercial aerial imaging services

Pilot Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Hold a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Own professional drone equipment capable of producing high-quality photo and video content.
  • Have reliable transportation.
  • Maintain current drone liability insurance.
  • Be legally authorized to work as an independent contractor.
  • Demonstrate excellent customer service and communication skills.
  • Deliver high-quality work on schedule.
  • Be dependable, professional, and safety-oriented.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with DJI or equivalent commercial drone platforms.
  • Professional photography and editing experience.
  • FAA LAANC knowledge and airspace experience.
  • Ability to travel within South Florida as assignments require.

Why Join PhotoDrone.com®?

  • Receive qualified customer leads.
  • Focus on flying while we handle marketing, scheduling, customer service, and business support.
  • Flexible schedule—you choose the assignments you accept.
  • Become part of a company with a vision for national expansion.
  • Opportunity to grow with the company from its earliest stages.

If you're a motivated FAA-certified drone pilot who wants to help build the next nationally recognized drone photography brand, we'd like to hear from you.

Apply today and become one of the founding pilots of PhotoDrone.com® in South Florida.

Company Description

About PhotoDrone.com®

PhotoDrone.com® is an innovative South Florida startup building a nationwide marketplace for professional drone photography. Using automation, artificial intelligence, and a network of FAA Part 107-certified drone pilots, we're making aerial imaging faster, more accessible, and more affordable for businesses and consumers. We serve industries including real estate, construction, insurance, legal, hospitality, and commercial marketing. As an early team member, you'll help shape our operations, technology, and culture while working directly with experienced business leaders. If you're entrepreneurial, enjoy solving problems, and want to help build a national brand from the ground up, we'd love to meet you.