The drone is only 15% of what we've built to enable seamless, reliable, global operations. Our system strengthens supply chains, reduces congestion, and gives people time back. With more than 140 ...
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The drone is only 15% of what we've built to enable seamless, reliable, global operations. Our system strengthens supply chains, reduces congestion, and gives people time back. With more than 140 ...
Apply Early
Part 107, Drone, UAS or Aviation Experience Preferred * A positive attitude, driven to solve problems and support teammates * Must be eligible to work in the US * Ability to work in varying weather ...
Part 107, Drone, UAS or Aviation Experience Preferred * A positive attitude, driven to solve problems and support teammates * Must be eligible to work in the US * Ability to work in varying weather ...
Visual Observer (Contract Opportunity), Austin
Austin, TX · On-site
$23/hr
The drone is only 15% of what we've built to enable seamless, reliable, global operations. Our system strengthens supply chains, reduces congestion, and gives people time back. With more than 140 ...
Quick apply
Apply Early
Visual Observer (Contract Opportunity), Austin
Austin, TX · On-site
$23/hr
The drone is only 15% of what we've built to enable seamless, reliable, global operations. Our system strengthens supply chains, reduces congestion, and gives people time back. With more than 140 ...
Apply Early
Act as a New Glenn drone operator ... Develop and conduct pilot and Visual Observer (VO) training * Manage operator coverage * Develop a ...
Act as a New Glenn drone operator ... Develop and conduct pilot and Visual Observer (VO) training * Manage operator coverage * Develop a ...
UAS Pilot II/I
Kenner, LA · On-site
... Visual Observer, and Sensor Operator - associated with the operation of UAS/UA/Drones for company ... In lieu of degree, 2-4 years of flight experience as a Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot and 200 ...
UAS Pilot II/I
Kenner, LA · On-site
... Visual Observer, and Sensor Operator - associated with the operation of UAS/UA/Drones for company ... In lieu of degree, 2-4 years of flight experience as a Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot and 200 ...
UAS Pilot II/I
Kenner, LA · On-site
Safely and securely pilot Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), act as a Visual Observer (VO), or Sensor ... In lieu of degree, 2-4 years of flight experience as a Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot and 200 ...
UAS Pilot II/I
Kenner, LA · On-site
Safely and securely pilot Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), act as a Visual Observer (VO), or Sensor ... In lieu of degree, 2-4 years of flight experience as a Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot and 200 ...
UAS Pilot II/I
Kenner, LA · On-site
Safely and securely pilot Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), act as a Visual Observer (VO), or Sensor ... In lieu of degree, 2-4 years of flight experience as a Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot and 200 ...
UAS Pilot II/I
Kenner, LA · On-site
Safely and securely pilot Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), act as a Visual Observer (VO), or Sensor ... In lieu of degree, 2-4 years of flight experience as a Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot and 200 ...
Production Flight Test Pilot I
$26.50 - $43/hr
We are a growing drone technology company focused on serving defense, public safety, and other ... Operate as a remote pilot or visual observer during flight test operations * Prepare UAS platforms ...
Production Flight Test Pilot I
$26.50 - $43/hr
We are a growing drone technology company focused on serving defense, public safety, and other ... Operate as a remote pilot or visual observer during flight test operations * Prepare UAS platforms ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Charlotte, NC · On-site
$50K - $67K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Charlotte, NC · On-site
$50K - $67K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$60K - $81K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$60K - $81K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Salt Lake City, UT · On-site
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
Quick apply
Apply Early
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Salt Lake City, UT · On-site
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
Apply Early
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$51K - $68K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$51K - $68K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Cincinnati, OH · On-site
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Cincinnati, OH · On-site
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Charlotte, NC · On-site
$50K - $67K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Charlotte, NC · On-site
$50K - $67K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Cincinnati, OH · On-site
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
Quick apply
Apply Early
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Cincinnati, OH · On-site
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
Apply Early
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Miami, FL · On-site
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Miami, FL · On-site
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$48K - $65K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$48K - $65K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Philadelphia, PA · On-site
$52K - $69K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
Quick apply
Apply Early
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Philadelphia, PA · On-site
$52K - $69K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
Apply Early
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$55K - $74K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$55K - $74K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
Quick apply
Apply Early
UAS Operations Support Specialist
$49K - $66K/yr
May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...
Apply Early
Drone Visual Observer information
See salary details
$18.17 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.87 - $20.76
53% of jobs
$23.78 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.76 - $25.66
35% of jobs
$25.66 - $30.55
7% of jobs
$30.55 - $35.45
0% of jobs
$35.45 - $40.34
0% of jobs
$40.34 - $45.24
0% of jobs
$45.24 - $50.13
0% of jobs
$50.13 - $55.03
0% of jobs
$55.03 - $59.92
1% of jobs
$59.92 - $64.82
1% of jobs
$64.82 - $69.71
2% of jobs
$15
$26
$69
How much do drone visual observer jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone visual observer in the United States is $26.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drone Visual Observer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Drone Visual Observer, you need a solid understanding of FAA regulations, strong situational awareness, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drone operations, radio communication systems, and sometimes completion of the FAA Part 107 certification are important technical requirements. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to remain alert and focused for extended periods are crucial soft skills. These abilities are important to ensure safe drone operations by effectively identifying hazards and maintaining compliance with aviation regulations.
How does a Drone Visual Observer typically collaborate with the drone pilot during operations?
A Drone Visual Observer works closely with the drone pilot to ensure safe and compliant flight operations. The observer maintains continuous visual line-of-sight with the drone, monitoring for obstacles, air traffic, and any hazards that could affect the mission. Regular, clear communication between the observer and the pilot is essential, as the observer relays real-time information and alerts the pilot to any safety concerns. This teamwork is crucial for meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring the safety of people and property in the vicinity.
What is the difference between Drone Visual Observer vs Drone Pilot?
| Aspect | Drone Visual Observer | Drone Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | FAA Part 107 Certification often required | FAA Part 107 Certification required |
| Work Environment | Assists drone pilots in various outdoor settings | Operates and controls drones directly |
| Job Role | Supports safety and situational awareness | Manages drone flight operations |
The Drone Visual Observer and Drone Pilot roles often overlap in certifications and work environments, but the Visual Observer primarily supports safety and monitoring, while the Pilot controls the drone directly. Both roles are essential in drone operations, especially in industries like construction, surveying, and film production.
What are Drone Visual Observers?
Drone Visual Observers are individuals who assist drone pilots by maintaining visual contact with the drone during flight operations. Their primary responsibility is to monitor the drone for potential hazards, ensure it remains within legal line-of-sight requirements, and communicate any safety concerns to the pilot in real time. Visual Observers play a critical role in safe drone operations, especially during complex or beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) missions. They help prevent collisions and ensure compliance with aviation regulations.
More about Drone Visual Observer jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Visual Observer jobs? Cities with the most Drone Visual Observer job openings:
What states have the most Drone Visual Observer jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Visual Observer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Visual Observer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Visual Observer jobs are:
$22/hr
Full-time
Posted 12 days ago
Be an early applicant
Job description
About Zipline
Zipline is the world's largest and most experienced drone delivery service. We are on a mission to serve all humans equally by ensuring access to food, medicine and essential goods anytime, anywhere. We design, build, and operate the world's largest autonomous logistics system, delivering critical supplies quickly and reliably. Today, Zipline operates on four continents, makes a delivery somewhere in the world every 30 seconds, and has completed millions of deliveries to date, including blood, vaccines, medical supplies, food, and retail products.
Our customers include the world's largest and most prominent healthcare systems, governments, retailers, restaurants and global businesses who rely on us to save lives, reduce emissions, increase economic opportunity, and provide delivery from point A to point B as fast as possible. The drone is only 15% of what we've built to enable seamless, reliable, global operations.
Our system strengthens supply chains, reduces congestion, and gives people time back. With more than 140 million commercial autonomous miles safely flown, Zipline is redefining access to healthcare, consumer products, and food across the globe.
We operate at a global scale and are looking for practical problem solvers who thrive on real-world challenges and rapid growth. Our team is motivated by building systems that have a direct, meaningful impact on people's lives and by scaling the future of logistics. We are seeking people who sculpt from first principles, enjoy facing adversity, and can do the impossible at record breaking speeds.
About You and The Role
Does being part of a Flight Test Operations team in the United States sound exciting to you? How about joining a team of dedicated, detail-oriented operators striving to be the best in the business?
The Flight Operations team at Zipline is growing, and we're looking for individuals with sound judgment, excellent interpersonal skills, and exceptionally high standards. Success requires a process-minded approach on every flight, safety-oriented attitude, flexibility, and enthusiasm for using cutting-edge technology to help others.
Zipline believes access to medical care should not depend on your GPS coordinates. We are at the forefront of a logistics revolution, using autonomous aircraft to deliver just-in-time, lifesaving medical supplies on 3 continents around the world (so far), 7 days a week.
What You'll Do- Participate in all pre-operational briefings and other required crew activities.
- Monitors assigned airspace along a flight route prior to launch, during flight and delivery phases of UAS testing.
- Assists in collision avoidance activities (e.g. identification of non-cooperative traffic and communication with the RPIC), as well as the identification of hazardous weather conditions and other unforeseen hazards (e.g. open air assemblies).
- Is an advocate for safety!
- Part 107, Drone, UAS or Aviation Experience Preferred
- A positive attitude, driven to solve problems and support teammates
- Must be eligible to work in the US
- Ability to work in varying weather conditions, outdoors and standing for long/extended periods of time.
- Full time opportunities available.
- Shift availability include days, nights and overnight shifts
Zipline is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion or religious creed, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, military or veteran status, citizenship, or other characteristics protected by state, federal or local law or our other policies.
We value diversity at Zipline and welcome applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. If you like the sound of this position but are not sure if you are the perfect fit, please apply!
Please Note
The starting pay for this role is $22/ hour.
We have received reports stating that certain individuals are reaching out to people under false pretenses, claiming to be Zipline employees, affiliates, agents, or representatives. They may seek to gain access to your personal information or to acquire money from you by offering fictitious employment opportunities or by claiming that they are contacting you on Zipline's behalf.
Genuine Zipline employees or representatives will never ask you for money or payment in exchange for employment opportunities or other related services. Any such offer of employment or any other service in exchange for fees that claims to be from us is deceitful and part of a fraud.
If you believe you have been targeted by a fraudulent party, we ask that you immediately get in touch with us via email at security@flyzipline.com upon receiving a suspicious offer or claim.