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Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ventura County, CA

Sheriff's Helicopter Pilot

Ventura, CA · On-site

$125K - $176K/yr

In addition, pilots fly over all types of terrain during aerial firefighting, law enforcement, crew ... Assists in training crews to operate safely in and around helicopters; use maps; operates fire and ...

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Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do full time aerial mapping pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time aerial mapping 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 is the difference between Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot vs Commercial Drone Operator?

AspectFull Time Aerial Mapping PilotCommercial Drone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107, Remote Pilot Certificate, specialized mapping trainingFAA Part 107, Remote Pilot Certificate, general drone operation training
Work EnvironmentTypically employed by mapping or surveying companies, working on large-scale projectsVaries from freelance to company-employed, working in diverse settings
Industry UsagePrimarily in surveying, mapping, GIS, and constructionIn various industries including photography, inspection, and videography

Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilots focus on specialized mapping and surveying tasks, often working for companies in geospatial industries. Commercial Drone Operators have broader roles, including photography and inspection, with less emphasis on mapping. The key differences lie in certifications, work environment, and industry focus.

What are Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilots?

Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilots are professional pilots who operate aircraft equipped with specialized cameras and sensors to capture aerial images and data for mapping and surveying purposes. Their work supports industries like construction, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and land surveying by providing accurate geographical information. These pilots often fly fixed-wing planes or helicopters along precise flight paths, following strict safety and data collection protocols. In addition to flying, they may also be responsible for basic equipment maintenance and data handling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, strong navigation skills, and experience with aerial survey operations. Familiarity with GPS systems, photogrammetry software, and specialized aerial mapping cameras is typically required. Attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication with ground crews and clients are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe flight operations, accurate data collection, and successful project execution in a highly technical and regulated environment.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time aerial mapping pilots, and how can they be addressed?

Full-time aerial mapping pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, complex airspace regulations, and the need for precise coordination with ground survey teams. Staying current with regulatory requirements and maintaining strong communication skills are essential to ensure flight safety and data accuracy. Additionally, pilots must be adaptable and well-versed in troubleshooting both aircraft and mapping equipment issues to minimize downtime during missions.
More about Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs are:
Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Aerial Mapping Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% Full Time, and 97% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Survey Pilot I

Survey Pilot I

Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd.

Chesterfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Short Description
Bowman has an opportunity for a Survey Pilot I to join our team in Chesterfield, MO.
At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That's why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.
Purpose
The Survey Pilot I plans, prepares, and executes aerial photography/data acquisition missions utilizing single-engine and multi-engine aircraft in a safe manner that ensures the highest product quality. May work as an Aerial Acquisition Technician (AAT) as scheduled or needed. Key responsibilities include attaining imagery and data to meet project specifications efficiently without the need for re-flight or additional production effort required due to quality or accuracy deficiencies.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Direction
  • Receives guidance from Chief Pilot, Assistant Chief Pilot, Aerial Acquisition Manager, Flight Instructors, and/or other survey pilots for aircraft performance, flight safety, and air traffic control issues.

At the Operational and Company Level
  • Contribute insights and suggestions for updates to the Flight Operations Manual and Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Engage in periodic training sessions to maintain and enhance piloting skills and knowledge.

Do the Work
  • Obtain project specifications and maps to fully understand mission requirements.
  • Conduct thorough pre-flight checks, alerting the Director of Maintenance to any irregularities.
  • Liaise with air traffic control (ATC), Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON), Military, and Special Use Airspace authorities to secure airspace access.
  • Confirm all mission-critical supplies and documents are onboard in collaboration with the Aerial Acquisition Administrator.
  • Actively participate in daily meetings to strategize and determine mission details, including aircraft relocation logistics.
  • Operate the aircraft adhering to Federal Aviation Regulations, Flight Operations Manual, STCs, SOPs, and company policies.
  • Continuously assess weather conditions and coordinate with Flight Operations to maximize data acquisition potential.
  • Ensure the aircraft is safely secured after the mission, conducting post-flight inspections and necessary equipment adjustments.
  • Manage fueling and loading, executing weight and balance calculations to ensure operational safety standards are met.
  • Utilize the Company's multi-service credit card responsibly for fuel, minor repairs, and hangar fees, ensuring all receipts are submitted.
  • Diligently maintain personal and aircraft flight logs, as well as approve flight reports to uphold company records.
  • Organize travel essentials including rental vehicles, hotels, and airline reservations, submitting detailed and accurate expense reports.

Confirm the availability and adequacy of maintenance facilities and hangar space at base airports.
Success Metrics and Competencies
  • High level of integrity in every aspect of the work being performed.
  • Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
  • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with all levels of the organization, external partners, clients, and sub-consultants.
  • Highly motivated and problem-solving attitude.
  • Strong sense of urgency in responding to clients and with internal teams.
  • High degree of discretion and ability to manage highly confidential information.
  • Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
  • Self-reliance and ability to operate independently with limited direction.
  • Commitment to promoting the reputation of the company through quality of work.
  • Aspirations to grow professionally and advance within the company.
  • Ability to effectively manage multiple time-sensitive tasks.
  • Data analysis and interpretation skills.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent required. Associate's degree in aviation or related field preferred.
  • Valid Pilot's certificate (Commercial, Instrument, Multi-Engine), High Performance endorsements.
  • Current First or Second-Class Medical certification required.
  • 250+ hours total flight time, 500+ flight hours, preferred.
  • Valid Driver's License (with safe driving record) and Passport (or ability to obtain one within three months of hire).
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) and experience using computers and managing files, including data uploads.
  • Cell phone with texting capabilities.
  • Personal Credit Card with $3,000 available credit to procure commercial flights, hotel, meals, and rental cars. Weekly reimbursement is made upon submission of expense report.

About Bowman
Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We're committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.
A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
  • Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.
Physical Demands and Working Environment
  • Ability to sit in a confined space in the plane for up to six (6) hours at a time.
  • Visual acuity to see close-up, distance, color, periphery, night, and depth.
  • Ability to input data using a computer keyboard and manipulate small equipment parts.
  • Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds of equipment and supplies.
  • Ability to adapt to changing temperatures, noise, light, and altitude.
  • Ability to pass DOT pre-employment, random and post-accident drug tests.
  • Ability to reach, climb, bend, and stretch.
  • Ability to speak and hear clearly to exchange accurate information with customers, employees, and related business professionals.
  • Within single-engine, twin-engine, or turboprop aircraft.
  • Aircraft hangar.
  • Mobility around an office environment.
  • Exposure to odors, sound, altitude changes and weather daily.

#LI-FS1
Job Description Disclaimer
Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.
Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.
Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.
If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.

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