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Freelance Remote Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

ZTL Remote Pilot Operator

Hampton, GA · On-site +1

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Atlanta ...

SAIC

RTC-AZ, Remote Pilot Operator

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Regional ...

SAIC

BNA Remote Pilot Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site +1

This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Nashville ...

SAIC

BNA Remote Pilot Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site +1

This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Nashville ...

SAIC

LGA - Remote Pilot Operator

Flushing, NY · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the LaGuardia ...

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How much do freelance remote drone pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance remote drone pilot in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Remote Drone Pilot vs Freelance Aerial Photographer?

AspectFreelance Remote Drone PilotFreelance Aerial Photographer
CredentialsFAA drone certification, remote pilot licensePhotography skills, portfolio
Work EnvironmentRemote, client sites, outdoor locationsOutdoor, on-location shoots or studio
Industry UsageSurveying, mapping, inspections, mediaReal estate, events, marketing
Search IntentRemote drone services, aerial data collectionAerial photography, creative shoots

Freelance Remote Drone Pilots primarily focus on operating drones for data collection and inspections, often requiring FAA certification. In contrast, Freelance Aerial Photographers concentrate on capturing images for clients, emphasizing photography skills. While both roles involve outdoor work and client interaction, their tools, certifications, and industry applications differ significantly.

How much do freelance remote drone pilots earn?

Freelance remote drone pilots typically earn between $20 and $100 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the project. Many earn additional income through project-based fees or retainer agreements, with some experienced pilots making over $75,000 annually by handling aerial photography, videography, or inspection tasks remotely. Earnings can vary widely based on skills, certifications, and the demand for drone services in specific industries.

How much do freelance remote drone pilots make?

Freelance remote drone pilots typically earn between $20 and $100 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the project. Many pilots set their rates based on the type of work, such as aerial photography, surveying, or inspection, and may work on a project basis or hourly rate.

Is there a big demand for freelance remote drone pilots?

The demand for freelance remote drone pilots is growing as industries like real estate, agriculture, and media increasingly use drone technology for aerial imaging and data collection. Opportunities often require certifications, proficiency with drone software, and the ability to operate remotely, making it a competitive but expanding field.

What cities are hiring for Freelance Remote Drone Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Remote Drone Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Remote Drone Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Remote Drone Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Remote Drone Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Remote Drone Pilot jobs include:

Freelance Remote Drone Pilot jobs near you

BNA Remote Pilot Operator

Science Applications International Corporation

Nashville, TN • Remote

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 226 rated it services

Job description

  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position.

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Nashville ATCT / TRACON (BNA) in Nashville, TN, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Job Description:

The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator. The RPO operates a combination of a simulated radar display and voice communication system to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.

The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications:  Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.

SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

Required Qualifications:

  • Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
  • Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective oral and written communications skills
  • Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective team building skills
  • MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology

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