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Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Five-S Group

Survey Drone Pilot

Lafayette, LA · On-site

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 ...

Bees360 Inc

1099 Drone Pilot - Laredo,TX

Katy, TX · Remote

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 ...

Eberl Claims Service

Iowa Drone Pilots (Iowa)

Iowa, LA · On-site

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 ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot (San Jose)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Robotic Operators - Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team. This is a unique hybrid role combining professional drone inspection ...

Percheron LLC

Survey Drone Pilot

Katy, TX

Description UAS Pilot is a field position with some office work; the candidate will be working outside and needs to be prepared to work in various weather and site conditions. Other duties include ...

XTEND

Flight Operations Drone Pilot

Tampa, FL · On-site

$48K - $57K/yr

Description The Flight Operations Drone Pilot is responsible for the safe operation, mission execution, and flight testing of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in support of customer, engineering ...

Percheron LLC

Survey Drone Pilot

Katy, TX · On-site

Description UAS Pilot is a field position with some office work; the candidate will be working outside and needs to be prepared to work in various weather and site conditions. Other duties include ...

Percheron LLC

Survey Drone Pilot

Katy, TX

Description UAS Pilot is a field position with some office work; the candidate will be working outside and needs to be prepared to work in various weather and site conditions. Other duties include ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA · On-site

$103K - $179K/yr

Overview LMI is seeking a Drone Pilot /Autonomy Test Operator to support a Department of War mission partner on site at Fort Bragg, NC. This role operates at the intersection of tactical UAS ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA

$103K - $179K/yr

Overview LMI is seeking a Drone Pilot /Autonomy Test Operator to support a Department of War mission partner on site at Fort Bragg, NC. This role operates at the intersection of tactical UAS ...

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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 22, 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 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.
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Drone Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Survey Drone Pilot

Five-S Group

Lafayette, LA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

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 aerial surveys, processing geospatial data, and ensuring compliance with local aviation and safety regulations. You will work closely with engineering, surveying, and GIS teams to capture accurate aerial data for a variety of applications such as topographic mapping, construction monitoring, and infrastructure planning. Must be able to pass a drug test and background check.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro