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Entry Level Government Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PhotoDrone.com®

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FAA-107 Drone Pilot with equipment

Fort Lauderdale, FL · Remote

$90/hr

What We Do PhotoDrone.com ® connects residential, commercial, and government clients with skilled FAA-certified drone pilots for a wide range of aerial imaging services, including: * Real estate ...

Veteran-friendly

RED CAT HOLDINGS

Production Flight Test Pilot I

Torrance, CA · On-site

$26.50 - $43/hr

... drone technology company focused on serving defense, public safety, and other government security ... Operate as a remote pilot or visual observer during flight test operations * Prepare UAS platforms ...

Turner Mining Group

Entry Level Drone Operator Pilot

$20 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Aiken County Government

GeoServices Analyst

Aiken, SC · On-site

$43K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... drone pilot in command. It also may participate in scheduling, planning and execution of drone ... Aiken County Government offers a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health ...

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Entry Level Government Drone Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do entry level government drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level government drone pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of missions or assignments can an entry level government drone pilot expect to support on a typical workweek?

As an entry level government drone pilot, you may participate in a variety of missions, such as conducting aerial surveys, assisting in search and rescue operations, monitoring infrastructure, or supporting environmental assessments. Your daily responsibilities often include pre-flight planning, equipment checks, following strict safety protocols, and collaborating with supervisors or field teams to collect and process aerial data. While most work is scheduled during regular hours, some assignments may require flexibility for urgent missions or changing weather conditions. Teamwork and clear communication with data analysts, field officers, or engineers are essential to ensure mission objectives are met safely and efficiently.

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

AspectEntry Level Government Drone PilotEntry Level Commercial Drone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 certification, government-specific clearancesFAA Part 107 certification, industry-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, public safety, infrastructure inspectionPrivate companies, real estate, media, surveying
Employer & Industry UsageFederal, state, local government agenciesCommercial businesses across various industries

While both roles require FAA Part 107 certification, government drone pilots typically work for public agencies performing inspections, surveillance, or public safety tasks. Commercial drone operators serve private clients in industries like real estate, media, or surveying. The main differences lie in the work environment and employer type, with government pilots focusing on public service and commercial pilots on private sector projects.

What does an entry level government drone pilot do?

An entry level government drone pilot is responsible for operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to support various government missions, such as surveillance, mapping, environmental monitoring, or emergency response. They follow strict protocols and safety guidelines, assist with flight planning, and help collect and analyze aerial data. Typically, they work under the supervision of more experienced pilots and may also be involved in equipment maintenance and reporting. This role often requires obtaining relevant certifications and adhering to federal and state aviation regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level government drone pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Government Drone Pilot, you need basic knowledge of aviation principles, drone operations, and a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS systems, and data collection tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to follow strict protocols help set candidates apart. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, compliant, and effective operation of drones in support of government missions.
More about Entry Level Government Drone Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Government Drone Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Government Drone Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Government Drone Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Government Drone Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Government Drone Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Government Drone Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Government Drone Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Government Drone Pilot jobs are:
Entry Level Government Drone Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Government Drone Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

FAA-107 Drone Pilot with equipment

PhotoDrone.com®

Fort Lauderdale, FL • Remote

Veteran-friendly

$90/hr

Contractor

Posted 11 days ago

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Job description

FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot – Independent Contractor

Join the Founding Team at PhotoDrone.com®

Location: South Florida (Broward, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, and surrounding areas)

Are you an experienced FAA Part 107-certified drone pilot looking to grow your business while working with an exciting new company?

PhotoDrone.com® is launching in South Florida with the vision of becoming one of America's premier providers of professional drone photography services. We are building a network of highly qualified independent drone pilots who share our commitment to professionalism, safety, and outstanding customer service.

This is an opportunity to become one of our founding pilots as we launch locally and expand throughout Florida and eventually nationwide.

What We Do

PhotoDrone.com® connects residential, commercial, and government clients with skilled FAA-certified drone pilots for a wide range of aerial imaging services, including:

  • Real estate photography
  • Commercial properties
  • Construction progress documentation
  • Roofing and insurance inspections
  • Marketing and promotional photography
  • Accident scene documentation
  • Special events
  • Additional commercial aerial imaging services

Pilot Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Hold a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Own professional drone equipment capable of producing high-quality photo and video content.
  • Have reliable transportation.
  • Maintain current drone liability insurance.
  • Be legally authorized to work as an independent contractor.
  • Demonstrate excellent customer service and communication skills.
  • Deliver high-quality work on schedule.
  • Be dependable, professional, and safety-oriented.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with DJI or equivalent commercial drone platforms.
  • Professional photography and editing experience.
  • FAA LAANC knowledge and airspace experience.
  • Ability to travel within South Florida as assignments require.

Why Join PhotoDrone.com®?

  • Receive qualified customer leads.
  • Focus on flying while we handle marketing, scheduling, customer service, and business support.
  • Flexible schedule—you choose the assignments you accept.
  • Become part of a company with a vision for national expansion.
  • Opportunity to grow with the company from its earliest stages.

If you're a motivated FAA-certified drone pilot who wants to help build the next nationally recognized drone photography brand, we'd like to hear from you.

Apply today and become one of the founding pilots of PhotoDrone.com® in South Florida.

Company Description

About PhotoDrone.com®

PhotoDrone.com® is an innovative South Florida startup building a nationwide marketplace for professional drone photography. Using automation, artificial intelligence, and a network of FAA Part 107-certified drone pilots, we're making aerial imaging faster, more accessible, and more affordable for businesses and consumers. We serve industries including real estate, construction, insurance, legal, hospitality, and commercial marketing. As an early team member, you'll help shape our operations, technology, and culture while working directly with experienced business leaders. If you're entrepreneurial, enjoy solving problems, and want to help build a national brand from the ground up, we'd love to meet you.