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Drone Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Five-S Group

Survey Drone Pilot

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial ... Must be able to pass a drug test and background check. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

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 ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA

$103K - $179K/yr

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 operations ...

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 ...

Heven AeroTech

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA · On-site

This role involves overseeing all drone operations, training programs, and compliance with ... Develop and manage the process for flight plan review 48 hours prior to flight and concise test ...

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 ... Execute mission profiles, flight test events, demonstrations, and training operations * Develop and ...

Infravision

Drone Maintenance Technician

Buda, TX · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

The Drone Maintenance Technician will partner closely with Drone Pilots, Engineers, and operations ... Test components, verify repairs, and support system checks before equipment is released for ...

Infravision

Drone Maintenance Technician

Buda, TX · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

The Drone Maintenance Technician will partner closely with Drone Pilots, Engineers, and operations ... Test components, verify repairs, and support system checks before equipment is released for ...

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Drone Test Pilot information

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$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do drone test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone test pilot in the United States is $105,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $107,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone test pilot?

Drone Test Pilots are specialized professionals responsible for operating and evaluating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) during test flights. Their job involves assessing the performance, safety, and reliability of drones under various conditions to ensure they meet design specifications and regulatory standards. They often work closely with engineers and technicians to identify and troubleshoot issues, provide feedback, and assist in the development of new drone technologies. Drone Test Pilots may conduct flights manually or use automated systems, and are required to keep detailed records of each test for analysis and improvement.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a drone test pilot?

To thrive as a Drone Test Pilot, you need strong aviation knowledge, technical proficiency with UAV systems, and typically a relevant degree or specialized drone pilot certification. Familiarity with flight control software, telemetry systems, and regulatory compliance tools like FAA Part 107 certification is highly valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure safe, accurate, and efficient testing of drone systems in compliance with industry standards and regulations.

What challenges do drone test pilots face during flight testing?

Drone test pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, unexpected technical malfunctions, and the need to adhere strictly to evolving safety protocols. Addressing these issues involves thorough pre-flight planning, real-time monitoring of both the drone's systems and environmental factors, and close collaboration with engineering teams to promptly troubleshoot anomalies. Continuous training and adherence to detailed checklists help ensure safe and efficient test flights, while debriefings after each flight provide opportunities to identify improvements and share best practices within the team.

What is the difference between Drone Test Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectDrone Test PilotDrone Operator
Required CertificationsFAA Part 107 certification, specialized flight trainingFAA Part 107 certification, basic drone operation training
Work EnvironmentTesting facilities, outdoor test sites, labsConstruction sites, filming locations, survey areas
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, research labs, defense contractorsMedia companies, real estate, agriculture

Drone Test Pilots focus on testing and validating drone performance, often working in controlled environments and requiring specialized training. Drone Operators handle day-to-day drone flights for various commercial purposes, with broader operational roles. While both roles require FAA Part 107 certification, Drone Test Pilots need additional testing experience and technical knowledge.

What cities are hiring for Drone Test Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Drone Test Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Drone Test Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drone Test Pilot jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Drone Test Pilot jobs?

For Drone Test Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Drone Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, and 75% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Survey Drone Pilot

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Five-S Group
Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Five-S Groupexternal

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

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