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Full Time Suas Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mining Engineer

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

All regular full-time employees may enroll in a variety of health and welfare plans including ... Must have or willing to acquire FAA Part 107 sUAS drone pilot certification * Surveying knowledge ...

All regular full-time employees may enroll in a variety of health and welfare plans including ... Must have or willing to acquire FAA Part 107 sUAS drone pilot certification * Surveying knowledge ...

Scientist I

Paducah, KY · On-site

$43K - $70K/yr

... Status Full-Time Required Education MS Click here for more information about equivalencies ... System (sUAS) Remote Pilot Certificate to support aerial data collection activities. A typical ...

Scientist I

Lexington, KY · On-site

$44K - $71K/yr

... Status Full-Time Required Education MS Click here for more information about equivalencies ... System (sUAS) Remote Pilot Certificate to support aerial data collection activities. A typical ...

... sUAS drones. FSTs report into the Customer Support Operation Team and work with other internal ... Experience in areas such as UAS operations / piloting, Mapping, Surveying, or Photogrammetry

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Showing results 1-20

Full Time Suas Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do full time suas pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time suas 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time SUAS (Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time SUAS Pilot, you need a solid understanding of aeronautics, flight operations, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Familiarity with drone piloting software, GPS navigation systems, and various SUAS platforms is crucial for effective operation. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing missions and collaborating with teams. These skills ensure safe, legal, and efficient drone operations in diverse environments.

Is there still a pilot shortage in 2026?

The airline industry continues to experience a pilot shortage, including for full-time SUAS pilots, due to increased demand for drone services and a limited supply of qualified pilots. This shortage is driven by factors such as industry growth, retirements, and the need for specialized certifications, making it a promising field for those with the right skills and training.

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

Full-time SUAS (Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing regulations, weather variability, and the need to adapt to diverse mission requirements. Staying updated on FAA guidelines and local airspace restrictions is essential to ensure compliance. Additionally, SUAS pilots must be prepared to troubleshoot technical issues in the field and maintain clear communication with team members, such as data analysts or project managers, to ensure mission objectives are met safely and efficiently. Continued training and joining professional networks can help pilots stay ahead in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Full Time Suas Pilot vs Part Time Suas Pilot?

AspectFull Time Suas PilotPart Time Suas Pilot
CertificationsRequired (e.g., FAA Part 107, remote pilot certificate)Required (same as full time)
Work HoursTypically 40+ hours/weekFewer hours, flexible schedule
Work EnvironmentConsistent, full-time employmentProject-based or occasional flights
Employer UsageFull-time drone service providers, companiesFreelance, part-time clients, or seasonal work

The main difference between a Full Time Suas Pilot and a Part Time Suas Pilot lies in work hours and employment status. Full Time Suas Pilots work regular hours with consistent employment, while Part Time Suas Pilots have flexible schedules and work on a project basis. Both roles require the same certifications and skills, but the commitment level varies.

Can I make a living as a drone pilot?

Full Time SUAS Pilots can earn a living by providing drone services such as aerial photography, inspections, and surveying to various industries. Success depends on skills, experience, certifications, and building a client base, with many pilots working as freelancers or for companies. Income varies widely based on location, workload, and specialization.

Do pilots make $400 an hour?

Full-time SUAS pilots typically do not earn $400 an hour, as their pay rates are generally lower and depend on experience, certification, and the type of UAV operations. Most commercial drone pilots earn between $20 and $100 per hour, with higher rates possible for specialized or highly experienced operators. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and project complexity.

What are Full Time SUAS Pilots?

Full Time SUAS Pilots are professionals who operate Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS), commonly known as drones, as their primary occupation. They are responsible for planning, executing, and managing drone flights for various purposes such as aerial photography, mapping, inspections, and surveillance. These pilots must adhere to aviation regulations, ensure the safety of the aircraft and people, and often analyze and process collected data. Full Time SUAS Pilots typically work for companies in industries like agriculture, construction, public safety, or media, and may also handle maintenance and troubleshooting of their equipment.

How much does a UAS pilot make?

A full-time UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) pilot typically earns between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certification, and industry. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of drone operations, location, and employer requirements such as FAA Part 107 certification.
More about Full Time Suas Pilot jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Suas Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Suas Pilot jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Suas Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Suas Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Full Time Suas Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Senior Solutions Engineer, Major Accounts | Public Safety - Northeast

Senior Solutions Engineer, Major Accounts | Public Safety - Northeast

Skydio, Inc

Remote

$56.50 - $73/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in battlefield scenarios, and beyond.
About the role:
Skydio is looking for a seasoned Solutions Engineer based in the Northeast to join our team of Solutions Engineers tasked with covering some of the largest public safety agencies in the United States. In this capacity, you will be responsible for demonstrating Skydio's true end to end solutions for public safety operations across a regional territory of State and local government agencies including law enforcement, fire and rescue service, emergency management, and public works. In addition to direct experience with Public Safety sUAS operations, a successful candidate for this role will love to travel, have drone-as-first-responders (DFR) operations experience, and be detail oriented; able to conduct thorough discovery as well as capture customer feedback used to guide product development, and work cross functionally to prepare Customer Success Plans. Exceptional candidates will also have extensive product knowledge on commonly used Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) products, situational awareness/real-time information software systems, evidence management systems, Video Management Systems (VMS), as well as a working knowledge of API integrations.
Solutions Engineers are critical members of the Skydio Sales Team and work with Account Executives to secure our customer's business, but more importantly to ensure the long term success of their sUAS programs with Skydio by laying the proper foundations.
This position offers the flexibility of remote work, with an expected travel requirement of 50-75% and reports to the Manager of Solutions Engineering, Major Accounts.
How you'll make an impact:
  • Collaborate with our Nation's largest Public Safety agencies to understand their needs and develop tailored drone solutions as a trusted expert and integral member of the Major Accounts Team.
  • Conduct product demonstrations and ensure the smooth integration of technology into customer agency operations and existing data management systems.
  • Assist with the coordination, and provide technical support, for "early access" pilot programs of Skydio products.
  • Gather and analyze customer feedback to inform product improvements and enhancements.
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams to support the development and execution of customer projects, including the development of Customer Success Plans and dock installation site readiness.

What makes you a good fit:
  • If you are based in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Vermont
  • Strong understanding of drone technology, public safety sUAS operations, and regulatory compliance.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to think critically in high-pressure situations.
  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to build relationships with clients.
  • Ability to travel 50-75% of the time.
  • Ability to lift 60 lbs unaided
  • FAA Part 107 Certificate

Compensation: At Skydio, our compensation packages for regular, full-time employees include competitive base salaries, equity in the form of stock options, and comprehensive benefits packages. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. Relocation assistance may also be provided for eligible roles. The on-target-earnings (OTE) range for this position is $180,000 - $225,000*. Fundamentally, we believe that equity is the key to long-term financial growth, and we ensure all regular, full-time employees have the opportunity to significantly benefit from the company's success. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to enroll in the Company's group health insurance plans. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to receive the following benefits: Paid vacation time, sick leave, holiday pay and 401K savings plan. This position and all associated benefits are subject to applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the Company's policies and eligibility criteria.
*Compensation for certain positions may vary based on the position's location.
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At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces the power of diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti-discrimination laws.
For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/