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Drone Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Ames Construction

Project Surveyor

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

In this role, you will act as a key technical link between design and execution, managing everything from earthwork quantity takeoffs to drone-based survey workflows. The ideal candidate brings at ...

The Pueblo of Sandia

Geospatial UAS Analyst

Bernalillo, NM · Remote

$37.54 - $42.24/hr

Serves as the primary Remote Pilot in Command for aerial data acquisition and manages the end-to-end lifecycle of drone-based mapping from flight planning to complex post-processing. Responsible for ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Associate GIS Consultant

Albuquerque, NM · Remote

FAA Part 107 Drone License and familiarity with Imagery and LiDAR derivative products. * Experience applying GIS to engineering * Experience using REST APIs, ETLs, and GET/POST requests * Experience ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Associate GIS Consultant

Albuquerque, NM · Remote

FAA Part 107 Drone License and familiarity with Imagery and LiDAR derivative products. * Experience applying GIS to engineering * Experience using REST APIs, ETLs, and GET/POST requests * Experience ...

Space Kinetic

Electrical Engineer

Albuquerque, NM

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations - one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost ...

Ames Construction

Project Surveyor

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

FAA part 107 license and familiarity with drone survey workflows or the ability to obtain a license and quickly learn * Must be competent in the use of computer software applications used for project ...

Space Kinetic

Electrical Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations - one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Associate GIS Consultant

Albuquerque, NM · Remote

FAA Part 107 Drone License and familiarity with Imagery and LiDAR derivative products. * Experience applying GIS to engineering * Experience using REST APIs, ETLs, and GET/POST requests * Experience ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Associate GIS Consultant

Albuquerque, NM · Remote

FAA Part 107 Drone License and familiarity with Imagery and LiDAR derivative products. * Experience applying GIS to engineering * Experience using REST APIs, ETLs, and GET/POST requests * Experience ...

Space Kinetic

Electrical Engineer

Albuquerque, NM

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations - one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost ...

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All JobsDrone JobsDrone Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Drone information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$16

$19

$23

How much do drone jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone in Rio Rancho, NM is $19.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much can you get paid for drone work?

Drone operators can earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks. Certified pilots with specialized skills in aerial photography, surveying, or inspection often command higher rates, and freelance work may pay per project rather than hourly.

What are some common challenges faced by drone operators in the field, and how can they be managed?

Drone operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, technical malfunctions, and navigating complex airspace regulations. To manage these, operators need to conduct thorough pre-flight checks, stay updated on local regulations, and maintain open communication with their team. Additionally, ongoing training and adherence to safety protocols are crucial for ensuring both the drone's integrity and the successful completion of missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drone Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Operator, you need expertise in piloting drones, understanding airspace regulations, and often a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or equivalent licensing. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and camera or sensor equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help operators adapt to changing environments and coordinate with teams. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and compliant drone operations across various industries.

What kind of jobs can you do with drones?

Drone operators and pilots can work in various industries such as aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, inspection, and delivery services. These jobs often require knowledge of drone operation, safety regulations, and sometimes certification or licensing. Drones are used for tasks like mapping, monitoring infrastructure, and creating promotional content.

What is the difference between Drone vs Photographer?

AspectDronePhotographer
Required CredentialsFAA Part 107 certification (for commercial use), drone operation trainingPhotography certifications (e.g., CPP), portfolio
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, aerial locations, remote areasIndoor studios, outdoor scenes, various locations
Industry UsageReal estate, filmmaking, surveyingEvents, portraits, commercial shoots

Both drones and photographers require specialized skills and certifications. Drones focus on aerial imaging and often involve remote operation, while photographers capture images from the ground. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their visual needs.

Is there a demand for drone operators?

Yes, there is increasing demand for drone operators across industries such as agriculture, construction, photography, and inspection services. Skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of FAA regulations are particularly sought after as drone usage expands in commercial applications.

What Are Careers in the Drone Industry?

Careers in the drone industry include drone pilots, software or hardware designers, and positions that analyze and assess the data acquired by drones. As a drone pilot, you can work in a variety of fields, including the mapping, real estate, construction, photography and film production, and military industries. Your responsibilities differ depending on the industry, but your general duties are to operate the drone and return the data to your supervisor. As a designer, you typically only work for drone manufacturers. Your goal is to either improve existing products or produce new drones.

What are drones and what are they used for?

Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are aircraft that operate without a human pilot onboard. They are commonly used for a variety of applications including aerial photography, agriculture, surveying, delivery services, infrastructure inspection, and even emergency response. Drones can be controlled remotely or fly autonomously using pre-programmed flight plans and sensors. Their versatility and ability to access hard-to-reach areas have made them valuable tools across many industries.
More about Drone jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Drone jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What are popular job titles related to Drone jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Drone jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Drone jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Drone jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Drone job openings:
Drone jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,602 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Research Assistant/Staff

Research Assistant/Staff

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • Remote

Other

Posted 12 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 560 rated colleges and universities

Job description

 Formally established in 2020, the Center for the Advancement of Spatial Informatics Research and Education (ASPIRE) researches methods for the capture, analysis, and representation of spatial data characterizing physical and social phenomena, commonly referred to as Geographic Information Science (GIScience). GIScience is an inherently integrative field of study, relying on virtually all engineering fields for technological and theoretical advancements, and having applications in virtually all sciences. 
ASPIRE brings together faculty with expertise and cutting-edge research portfolios in a broad range of GIScience sub-fields, including spatial modeling, geo-visualization, remote sensing, and spatial statistics.

The Research Assistant will conduct LiDar Drone flights as a certified 107 remote pilot and will process data and produce reports for ASPIRE projects and the service cost center. 

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