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Entry Level Drone Pilot Military Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turner Mining Group

Entry Level Drone Operator Pilot

$20 - $21/hr

Drone Operator Pilots have a very heavy schedule. There is a great deal of nationwide travel associated with this job, often requiring extended periods away from home including weekends and/or ...

Eberl Claims Service

Iowa Drone Pilots (Iowa)

Iowa, LA · On-site

Responsibilities The Drone Pilot Inspection Specialist is responsible for performing image data ... Senior Level * Entry level Employment Type * Contract Job Function * Customer Service Industries

Aerones

Drone Pilot (San Jose)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Robotic Operators - Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our ... Prior Military Service * GWO Basic Technical Training (BTT) * GWO Sea Survival * GE / Vestas ...

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 ... Military aviation or UAS operational experience * Experience conducting developmental testing ...

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Entry Level Drone Pilot Military information

What does an entry level drone pilot do in the military?

An entry level drone pilot in the military is responsible for operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to gather intelligence, conduct surveillance, and support missions. Their duties often include launching, navigating, and recovering drones, as well as analyzing real-time data and imagery collected during flights. They work closely with mission planners and intelligence analysts to ensure successful operations. Training is provided to ensure pilots can safely and effectively operate military drones and follow protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level drone pilot in the military?

To thrive as an Entry Level Drone Pilot in the military, you need a solid understanding of basic aviation principles, spatial awareness, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with successful completion of military training programs. Familiarity with drone-specific control systems, GPS navigation, and secure communication technologies is required, and some positions may require security clearance. Strong attention to detail, discipline, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for mission success. These skills and qualities ensure safe, accurate drone operations and effective support for military objectives in complex environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level drone pilots in the military, and how can they prepare for them?

Entry level drone pilots in the military often face challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing mission requirements, operating advanced technology under pressure, and maintaining strict attention to detail during long shifts. Additionally, they must be prepared to work as part of a larger team, including intelligence analysts and ground forces, to ensure mission success. Building strong communication skills, staying disciplined, and engaging in regular technical training can help new pilots navigate these challenges and excel in their roles.

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

AspectEntry Level Drone Pilot MilitaryEntry Level Drone Operator
Required CredentialsMilitary drone pilot training, security clearanceBasic drone flying certification, possibly FAA Part 107
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, controlled environments, strict protocolsCommercial sites, outdoor, varied conditions
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense contractorsCommercial, media, surveying

Both roles involve operating drones, but military drone pilots typically require specialized military training and security clearance, working in controlled environments for defense purposes. Entry level drone operators often hold basic certifications and work in commercial settings, focusing on photography, surveying, or inspection tasks. The key differences lie in credentials, work environment, and industry focus.

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Entry Level Drone Pilot Military jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drone Pilot Military job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Entry Level Drone Operator Pilot

Turner Mining Group

Remote

$20 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Our client, Firmatek is seeking self-motivated, innovative people with a passion for drone flight to travel nationwide and manually fly a drone to inspect utility infrastructure. Firmatek utilizes a variety of platforms to capture high-resolution cameras to capture detailed visual data of the power lines and associated infrastructure. The ideal candidate will be willing to travel long distances from their base of operations, sometimes for weeks at a time, and able to work both independently with no direct supervision and on a team. Adaptability, attention to detail, and willingness to learn are essential to success in this position.
IMPORTANT: Drone Operator Pilots have a very heavy schedule. There is a great deal of nationwide travel associated with this job, often requiring extended periods away from home including weekends and/or holidays. Almost every week Pilots are scheduled for jobs more than a few hours from their home location. Many jobs are a day's drive away or greater at times. Additionally, storm and disaster response work can be scheduled at a moment's notice when requested.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform image data collection using high resolution cameras and thermal imagery using a combination of LiDAR, drone photogrammetry, and FLIR equipment.
  • Conduct pre-flight and post-flight operations, including but not limited to airspace coordination, equipment assembly and tear-down, and hazard mitigation.
  • Develop a flight plan that outlines the inspection route, waypoints, and areas of focus to ensure comprehensive coverage.
  • Employ thermal imaging capabilities to detect anomalies, hotspots, or potential issues that may not be visible to the naked eye.
  • Employ proper flight techniques, including smooth maneuvers, maintaining appropriate distances from power lines, and capturing images from multiple angles for accurate analysis.
  • Be prepared to troubleshoot technical challenges that may arise during the inspection, such as signal interference, battery life, or camera calibration.
  • Ensure data integrity by regularly checking for image quality, sensor accuracy, and proper data storage to minimize errors or inaccuracies.
  • Perform quality checks on collected data to ensure accuracy and that the client's needs will be met.
  • Serve as a point of contact with clients regarding project scope, scheduling needs, deliverables and follow-up.
  • Interact with members of the public to explain the nature of the work being conducted.
  • Manual flights for inspection of power lines and poles.
  • Strong ability to learn and master multiple software packages, data collection platforms, and associated workflows.
  • High attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Must have a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License.
  • Preference will be given to candidates with an applied knowledge of Utility infrastructure, GIS mapping, & proficiency in manual flight maneuvers in narrow right of ways.
  • Be responsible for the operation and maintenance of supporting equipment including a 4x4 truck, computer workstation, on-board inverters, and batteries.
  • Must be able to use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including hardhats, protective eyewear, boots, safety vests, and 2-way radios.
  • Perform physically demanding work involving frequent standing, sitting, kneeling, bending, stooping, climbing up ladders, walking on uneven surfaces, and lifting and carrying equipment up to 60 lbs.
  • Willingness to travel away from home for extended periods, many times longer than two weeks.
  • Exposure to extreme weather conditions.
  • Ability to drive for extended periods.
  • Working around industrial hazards

Qualifications and Skills
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License - Required
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $47,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Provided by Company:
  • Company Truck
  • Company Phone
  • Company Laptop
  • Company Drones
  • Hotels covered by company
  • Daily meal per-diem for days you wake up in a hotel

Work Location: On the road.

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