ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Drone Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arch Aerial LLC

Junior GIS Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

... drone-captured data for our clients. About the Role The GIS Technician will play a key role in ... This is an entry-level position with immediate opportunities for training and career development.

Arch Aerial LLC

Junior GIS Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

... drone-captured data for our clients. About the Role The GIS Technician will play a key role in ... This is an entry-level position with immediate opportunities for training and career development.

Landmark Excavating

Survey Tech

American Fork, UT

$20 - $24/hr

Survey Technician (Entry Level)Build the Future with Landmark Excavating Landmark Excavating is ... You'll gain hands-on experience with modern GPS equipment, total stations, drone technology, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrone JobsEntry Level Drone Jobs

Entry Level Drone information

See salary details

$29.5K

$49.6K

$60K

How much do entry level drone jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level drone in the United States is $49,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $54,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects or tasks are typically assigned to entry-level drone operators, and how do these responsibilities support team objectives?

Entry-level drone operators are often tasked with conducting aerial surveys, capturing photos or video footage, and assisting with equipment setup and maintenance. These responsibilities are essential for supporting larger projects, such as mapping, inspections, or promotional content creation, by providing accurate data and visual assets. Working closely with more experienced pilots and project managers, entry-level operators contribute to safe flight operations and help ensure project deadlines are met. Collaboration and attention to detail are crucial, as the data collected is often foundational for client deliverables or internal analysis.

What are entry level drone jobs?

Entry level drone jobs typically involve operating drones for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspections, mapping, or delivery services. These positions are suitable for individuals who are new to the drone industry and may require only a basic certification, like the FAA Part 107 license in the United States. Responsibilities often include piloting drones, performing routine maintenance, and assisting with data collection and analysis. Entry level roles provide hands-on experience and can serve as a stepping stone to more specialized or advanced drone careers.

How do I start a career in drones?

To start a career as an entry-level drone operator, gain basic knowledge of drone technology and regulations, and consider obtaining relevant certifications such as the FAA Part 107 license if operating commercially in the United States. Building practical experience through training, practice flights, and understanding safety protocols can improve job prospects in industries like photography, surveying, or inspection.

Can you make a career out of being a drone pilot?

A career as an entry-level drone pilot is possible, especially in industries like photography, surveying, and inspection services. It typically requires obtaining relevant certifications, such as a remote pilot certificate, and developing skills in operating drones and understanding regulations. Advancement opportunities exist with experience and specialized training.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Drone Operator, you need basic knowledge of drone flight principles, familiarity with aviation regulations, and often a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) from the FAA. Proficiency in using drone control software, GPS navigation, and common data capture or imaging systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication help ensure safety and efficient data collection. These skills and qualities are crucial for successful mission execution, compliance with legal requirements, and delivering high-quality results to clients or employers.

What is a good entry level drone?

An entry-level drone suitable for beginners typically features easy-to-use controls, stable flight performance, and a durable design. Popular models include the DJI Mini SE and Holy Stone HS210, which are affordable and often come with beginner-friendly features and safety certifications. These drones are ideal for learning basic flying skills and may require minimal prior experience or training.

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

AspectEntry Level DroneDrone Operator
Required CredentialsBasic drone certification, possibly a drone pilot licenseAdvanced drone pilot license, FAA Part 107 certification
Work EnvironmentTraining settings, small projects, indoor/outdoor environmentsField operations, construction sites, filming locations
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in photography, surveying, or inspectionCommercial drone services, media production, infrastructure inspection

While both roles involve operating drones, Entry Level Drone positions typically require basic certifications and focus on training and small-scale projects. Drone Operators usually have advanced certifications and handle more complex, large-scale tasks in various industries.

What drone jobs are best for beginners?

Entry-level drone jobs suitable for beginners include aerial photography, basic inspection work, and data collection for small projects. These roles often require a drone pilot certification, knowledge of FAA regulations, and basic flying skills, making them accessible for new operators. Gaining experience with user-friendly drones and understanding safety procedures can help beginners start in these positions.
More about Entry Level Drone jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Drone jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Drone job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone jobs? The most popular types of Drone jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Drone jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Drone jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drone jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drone jobs are:
Entry Level Drone jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drone job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Locum Tenens, 46% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,574 per year, or $23.8 per hour.
Junior GIS Technician

Junior GIS Technician

Arch Aerial LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

GIS Technician (Photo, Video, and GIS Content Editor)
Arch Aerial LLC is seeking a highly motivated GIS Technician with a passion for mapping, geospatial analysis, and 3D modeling, that also has an interest in photography and videography editing. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in GIS, remote sensing, 3D modeling, and ESRI tools, combined with a creative eye for visual storytelling through imagery and video. This unique role blends data processing and analysis with media production to enhance the value of drone-captured data for our clients.
About the Role
The GIS Technician will play a key role in processing, analyzing, and delivering high-value geospatial data, aerial imagery, and inspection reports derived from drone operations. Additionally, the role includes opportunities for editing photography and videography content. While the primary focus (70%) is on GIS data processing, mapping, and reporting, the role also includes (30%) editing ground photography, and videography, as needed.
This is an entry-level position with immediate opportunities for training and career development. Students, recent graduates, or those looking to enter the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) field with a GIS focus are encouraged to apply. This is a salary position with varying desk and fieldwork responsibilities. Any fieldwork is conducted in industrial environments, often in hot and humid South Texas conditions, requiring physical stamina.
Key Responsibilities
Primary Duties (GIS & Data Processing Focus - 70%)
  • Process, analyze, and deliver GIS-based mapping products using ESRI ArcGIS, Pix4D, and other geospatial software.
  • Assist in the creation and delivery of pipeline inspection reports, methane detection reports, OGI, and hyperspectral payload data analysis. (Training available)
  • Develop, measure, and distribute aerial mapping datasets using drone-captured imagery and cloud-based GIS platforms like ArcGIS Online.
  • Manage, organize, and maintain geospatial datasets, ensuring accuracy and accessibility for project stakeholders.
  • Troubleshoot and assist customers with data access, visualization, and interpretation.
  • Support data management and archival strategies to ensure long-term accessibility and security of drone-captured data.
Secondary Duties (Photography, Videography Editing & Fieldwork - 30%)
  • Edit and enhance photography and videography captured from drone and ground-based operations.
  • Assist in creating compelling visual content for internal and external marketing efforts.
  • If the candidate possesses the skills, capture ground-level photography and videography for project documentation and promotional materials.
  • Assist UAS Pilots on relevant projects, including driving and field support when necessary.
  • Support daily and monthly reporting for project tracking and operational efficiency.

Why Join Arch Aerial LLC?
  • Cutting-edge industry exposure in UAS, geospatial technology, and data analytics.
  • Hands-on experience with real-world GIS applications in industrial and commercial environments.
  • Career growth opportunities in drone-based GIS, remote sensing, and media production.
  • Supportive team environment with training and mentorship available.

If you're passionate about GIS, mapping, and 3D modeling but also have an interest in visual storytelling through photography and videography, this is the perfect role for you! Apply today to join our team and help shape the future of drone-based geospatial solutions.
Requirements
Qualifications & Skills
Required:
  • Proficiency in ESRI ArcGIS Suite (ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Survey123, etc.) and 3D modeling software.
  • Strong analytical skills with experience processing geospatial data, drone imagery, and 3D terrain models.
  • Basic experience with photography and videography editing software (Adobe Premiere Pro, Photoshop, Lightroom, or similar).
  • Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication and customer service skills.
  • Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook proficiency.
  • Dropbox (or other cloud management) proficiency.
  • Ability to work in physically demanding environments (hot/humid conditions, industrial sites).
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel for fieldwork when needed.

Preferred:
  • Associate's degree (or equivalent experience) in GIS, Geography, Remote Sensing, Geomatics, or a related field preferred, but not required
  • Experience with Pix4D, Agisoft Metashape, or other photogrammetry software.
  • Familiarity with drone operations, UAS regulations, and remote sensing applications. (FAA Part 107 certification is a plus but not required at hire.)
  • Experience with video storytelling and marketing content creation.

Benefits
Not immediately eligible for benefits. Eligible for optional benefits program effective in the 2027 calendar year if employed with the company 6 months prior to October 1st, 2026 and maintaining full-time hours. Eligible for 401K program, according to company limitations, 90 days after hire. Additional details provided during interview.

Apply