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Drone Video Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kiewit

Drone Operator- Surveyor 1

Medford, OR · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Drone Operator - Transmission & Distribution Inspection Kiewit Power Delivery | Field-Based Role ... Power Line Asset Inspection Capture high-resolution imagery and video (and thermal data, if ...

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Drone Video Operator information

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How much do drone video operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone video operator in the United States is $25.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a drone camera operator?

To become a drone camera operator, you should obtain a remote pilot certificate or license, which involves passing a knowledge test on aviation regulations and safety. Gaining experience with drone flying, camera operation, and editing skills is also important, along with understanding local laws and regulations regarding drone use.

What is the difference between Drone Video Operator vs Drone Photographer?

AspectDrone Video OperatorDrone Photographer
CredentialsFAA drone certification, basic videography skillsFAA drone certification, photography skills
Work EnvironmentFilming videos for events, real estate, or inspectionsCapturing aerial photos for real estate, marketing, or inspections
Industry UsageVideo production, media, constructionReal estate, advertising, architecture

Both roles require FAA drone certification and knowledge of drone operation. The main difference lies in the focus: Drone Video Operators specialize in capturing moving footage, while Drone Photographers focus on still images. Depending on your skills and career goals, you may choose to specialize in one or both areas within the drone industry.

How much does a drone videographer get paid?

The average salary for a drone videographer ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Freelance drone videographers may charge hourly rates between $50 and $200, with higher rates for specialized skills or commercial work.

Is there a demand for drone operators?

The demand for drone video operators is growing across industries such as filmmaking, real estate, construction, and inspection services. As drone technology becomes more accessible and regulations evolve, opportunities for skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of flight safety are increasing.

Do drone operators make good money?

Drone video operators can earn varying wages depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. Entry-level operators may earn hourly rates around minimum wage, while experienced professionals working in commercial or specialized sectors can make significantly higher salaries or project-based fees. Certifications and skills in piloting and editing can also influence earning potential.
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Drone Video Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Video Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,104 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Real Estate Photographer & Drone Operator

Realty Plans

Newport, RI • On-site

$500 - $750/wk

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to take control of your time and be your own boss? Then this is for you! Work when you want to and make a living doing it
Realty Plans is a revolutionary, high-impact imagery and floor plan firm that elevates ordinary real estate listings into the extraordinary. We deliver a range of comprehensive marketing media tools including photography, videography, drone services and more to enhance listings for real estate professionals.
We are looking for a dedicated and ambitious technician who is able to shoot photography, videography and drone to join our fast-growing company as we expand to new markets. In this position you are in control of your schedule. Give us your availability and we will give you work. This is an opportunity for an individual who is motivated and willing to grow with our company and seek rapid advancement.
The projects you'll be assigned to, include:
  • Photographing homes
  • Create videos of stunning real estate listings
  • Drone photography / videography
  • Floor Plans creation

Our ideal candidate:
  • 2-3 years experience
  • Working knowledge in HDR photography
  • Working knowledge in video creation
  • Working knowledge in drone videography and photography
  • Knowledge in creating Floor Plans (training will be provided)
  • Must have reliable transportation
  • Strong communication skills
  • Friendly, talented
  • Understands the value of building and maintaining professional relationships
  • The ability to work independently
  • Trustworthy, confident and reliable

EQUIPMENT:
  • Full frame camera
  • Drone
  • Wide angle Lens (17-35mm or similar)
  • Tripod for photography and video (professional grade)
  • Slider (professional grade)
  • Dolly (professional grade)
  • Gimbal
  • On camera speed-light, flash or strobe
  • Ipad or tablet
  • Smart phone with email access
  • Access to a computer with internet

MUST HAVE:
  • Reliable transportation
  • Reliable equipment
  • Great communications skills

SERVICE AREA:
  • Newport County, RI
  • Washington County, RI
  • Providence County, RI
  • Bristol County, RI
  • Ken County, RI

WHY US:
  • Be apart of an energetic start up with a lot of growth potential
  • Competitive compensation
  • A responsive customer success team that will support you every step of your shoot
  • Flexible Schedule - You control your availability

Compensation:
  • This is a commission based independent contractor position

Compensation: $500.00 - $750.00 per week
Who We Are
At the age of 17, Hicham Bensaoui moved from Morocco to the USA to follow his dream. He always had a passion for photography; what began as a hobby shooting landscape and portraits quickly turned into picking up work for fashion, weddings, and event photography. Soon after, he began his journey as a Real Estate Photographer, Videographer and Editor which quickly became his main focus. Hicham and his wife, Julia, realized there was a need in the real estate industry for consistent media quality and support. Fully committed, they put in long hours every day to grow the company and the team to what it has become today.
We opened our doors in 2014 under the name CT Plans. Our name changed to Realty Plans in 2022, but our core values have always stayed the same: quick turnaround, top quality, and a reliable support team to cater to the needs of our clients. We cover Residential, Commercial, Agent and Town services across the Northeast.
Work With Us
Join our team to help shape the future of real estate digital marketing tools.
Our Core Values:
  • Real
  • Equal
  • Driven
  • Honest
  • Inspired
  • Purposeful

Apply