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Freelance Unmanned Aerial System Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Noblesoft Technologies

Technical Writer

Bingen, WA · On-site

As a technical writer, the engineer will be responsible to create Work Instruction Documents for Installation/Removal and Assembly/Disassembly, etc. activities for the unmanned aerial system, sub ...

Griffon Aerospace

Industrial Engineer

Madison, AL · On-site

$62K - $84K/yr

You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and refining unmanned aerial system manufacturing layouts that maximize throughput, minimize waste, and scale with our rapid production growth.

Griffon Aerospace

Industrial Engineer

Madison, AL · On-site

$62K - $84K/yr

You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and refining unmanned aerial system manufacturing layouts that maximize throughput, minimize waste, and scale with our rapid production growth.

Griffon Aerospace

Industrial Engineer

Madison, AL · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and refining unmanned aerial system manufacturing layouts that maximize throughput, minimize waste, and scale with our rapid production growth.

Griffon Aerospace

Industrial Engineer

Madison, AL · On-site

$62K - $84K/yr

You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and refining unmanned aerial system manufacturing layouts that maximize throughput, minimize waste, and scale with our rapid production growth.Key ...

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How much do freelance unmanned aerial system jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance unmanned aerial system in the United States is $62.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.34 and $68.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance unmanned aerial system operator?

Freelance Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) operators are professionals who independently operate drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for various clients and industries. Their work can include aerial photography, surveying, mapping, inspections, and videography. As freelancers, they are typically self-employed and manage their own schedules, equipment, and client relationships. They must also comply with relevant aviation regulations and safety standards. This role often requires technical expertise, licensing, and strong business skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance unmanned aerial system operator?

To thrive as a Freelance Unmanned Aerial System Operator, you need strong piloting skills, a solid understanding of aviation regulations, and typically a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) from the FAA. Proficiency with various drone platforms, flight planning software, and image or data processing tools is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication help deliver high-quality results and maintain client relationships. These skills ensure safe, legal, and efficient drone operations that meet client expectations in diverse environments.

What are some common challenges freelance unmanned aerial system operators face when working with diverse clients?

Freelance UAS operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying client expectations, ensuring compliance with evolving aviation regulations, and managing logistical aspects like obtaining flight permissions for different locations. Additionally, freelancers must be adept at maintaining and troubleshooting their equipment, as they are responsible for all aspects of their operations. Building strong communication skills and a reliable workflow is key to delivering high-quality results and fostering repeat business in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Freelance Unmanned Aerial System vs Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pilot?

AspectFreelance Unmanned Aerial SystemUnmanned Aerial Vehicle Pilot
CredentialsRemote pilot certification, drone operation licensesRemote pilot certification, drone operation licenses
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, project-based, varied locationsOften employed by companies, controlled environments or on-site
Industry UsageSurveying, filming, agriculture, inspectionCommercial drone operations, aerial photography, surveillance

Both roles require similar certifications and operate in related environments, but Freelance Unmanned Aerial System professionals typically work independently on diverse projects, while Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pilots may be employed by organizations for specific tasks.

What cities are hiring for Freelance Unmanned Aerial System jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Unmanned Aerial System job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Unmanned Aerial System jobs?

The most popular types of Unmanned Aerial System jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Unmanned Aerial System jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Unmanned Aerial System jobs include:

Freelance Unmanned Aerial System jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Unmanned Aerial System job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,079 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

Staff Pilot Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Emerado, ND • On-site

$168K - $252K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Staff Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Pilot to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Test & Evaluation organization. This position is located in Emerado, North Dakota.

This UAS Pilot will support developmental test and production acceptance flights for the RQ-4 Range Hawk program.

Key Responsibilities:

Defines test plans, organizes and executes complex flight programs and flight test events in accordance with military, FAA and ICAO procedures as applicable

Conduct briefings and debriefings, and coordinates with maintenance personnel to analyze and correct vehicle discrepancies

Conduct demonstration flights with customers, government officials or other personnel to exhibit vehicle performance, flying qualities and system capabilities as required

Travel to test or customer sites as required

Selected candidate must successfully complete RQ-4 UAS training and qualification as a basis for continued employment

We offer a 9/80 or 4/10 work schedule, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.

Basic Qualifications:

Must have a Bachelors degree and 12 years of related professional/military experience to include a background in aerospace test activities OR a Masters degree and 10 years of related professional/military experience to include a background in aerospace test activities OR a Doctorate degree and 8 years of related professional/military experience to include a background in aerospace test activities

Must have experience as a flight operations crew member

Flight test experience

Must be commercial instrument rated pilot (FAA or military equivalent), with current FAA Class II Medical or better.

Must have a minimum of 500 hours of flight experience as Pilot in Command and able to maintain instrument currency in manned aircraft

Must be able to obtain and maintain a US Government Secret Clearance

Must be willing to maintain the appropriate medical clearance(s), as defined per the customer's contracting requirements, for the duration of your employment.

Must be willing to obtain and maintain all training qualifications, as needed per the customer's contracting requirements, for the duration of your employment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Mathematics

Current type rating as a pilot on RQ-4 aircraft

Test Pilot School graduate

Military flight experience

Aviation instructor experience

Active US Government Secret Clearance or higher

What We Offer:

At Northrop Grumman, we are on the cutting edge of innovation -- building the next generation of sophisticated aircraft to protect our country. Our diverse portfolio of programs means there are endless paths to cultivate your career. We are well-known for our inclusive, family environment, phenomenal learning opportunities, and exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers. We also offer exceptional benefits/healthcare, and a great 401K matching program.

Primary Level Salary Range: $168,200.00 - $252,200.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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