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Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot Jobs in Raleigh, NC

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Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$16

$19

How much do entry level aerial survey pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level aerial survey pilot in Raleigh, NC is $16.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level aerial survey pilot?

Entry level aerial survey pilots are professional pilots who operate aircraft to capture images and data for mapping, land assessment, environmental studies, and other surveying projects. They typically fly small planes at low altitudes along precise flight paths to collect accurate geographical or photographic data. These positions are suitable for pilots with a commercial pilot's license who are looking to gain experience and flight hours. Duties often include pre-flight planning, operating specialized camera or sensor equipment, and ensuring the safety of the aircraft and equipment during missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level aerial survey pilot?

To thrive as an Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot, you generally need a commercial pilot license, strong navigation skills, and a solid understanding of aerial mapping techniques. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aerial camera equipment, and flight planning software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently in varying conditions are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure precise data collection, safety, and reliability in aerial survey operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level aerial survey pilots, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level aerial survey pilots often encounter challenges such as adapting to precise low-altitude flying, managing fatigue during long flight hours, and coordinating with survey technicians and ground crews. Mastering specialized flight patterns and maintaining focus over repetitive routes are crucial skills. Effective communication with the survey team and a strong commitment to safety help address these challenges. Many employers offer thorough training and mentorship to support new pilots as they build experience and confidence.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot vs Entry Level Drone Operator?

AspectEntry Level Aerial Survey PilotEntry Level Drone Operator
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, specific aerial survey certificationsRemote Pilot Certificate (Part 107)
Work EnvironmentManually piloting aircraft for surveys, often in remote areasOperating small drones for data collection, often indoors or in controlled environments
Industry UsageSurveying, mapping, environmental monitoringPhotography, inspection, data collection

Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilots operate manned aircraft for surveying purposes, requiring pilot licenses and experience. Entry Level Drone Operators use small unmanned drones, needing remote pilot certification. While both roles involve aerial data collection, the pilot operates different equipment and environments, with the survey pilot focusing on larger aircraft and more complex missions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerial Survey Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Aerial Survey Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot job openings:

Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Aerial Survey Pilot job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,022 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Traffic Project Engineer I

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT)

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Job Description

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #50 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.

Position summary: Responsible for traffic engineering design using knowledge of general engineering principles and practices to interpret, organize, execute and coordinate assignments with limited supervision.  This position involves a solid mix of electrical, civil, and systems engineering principles.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Traffic signal and roadway lighting design, including CAD and field work
  • ITS, signal interconnection, and emerging traffic technology design
  • Signal timing at a corridor level, including field-based fine tuning and implementation
  • Support of traffic safety projects and other Smart Mobility projects
  • Signal cabinet wiring and signal controller programming
  • Analyze survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, aerial photography and other topographical or geologic data to plan projects/tasks 
  • Perform design computations 
  • Design projects in accordance with client specifications and guidelines, using design software and drawing tools
  • Develop or review the construction cost estimate
  • Prepare and compile contract plans, specifications and estimates 
  • Attend meetings with clients and assist taking meeting minutes 
  • Coordinate with other disciplines and understand how they fit into the project and design 
  • Quality review of project design in accordance with the Project Management Plan
  • Technical oversight and guidance/support of Traffic Design Engineers within department 

Nonessential functions and responsibilities

  • sUAS (drone) piloting
  • Research and studies

What Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson employees say

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