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Government Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TalentBridgeX

E-UAS Pilot/Technician

Washington, DC

... drone activity. Contractor personnel operate and sustain government-furnished E-UAS/C-UAS systems ... The Pilot maintains readiness for immediate launch, coordinates with CUSTOMER operational ...

WingXpand, LLC.

$90 - $140/hr

WingXpand is seeking experienced pilots and trainers to help deliver the next generation of ... Train military, government, and commercialoperators on WingXpand systems and mission planning

T3i, Inc.

Drone/FPV Instructor

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

Obtain a FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License (must maintain) * Complete the T3i TDOC instructor ... As a Federal Government Contractor, T3i is required to strictly adhere to federally mandated drug ...

ZenaDrone Inc.

Drone Technician

Arizona City, AZ · On-site

ZenaTech serves over 100 enterprise software customers in law enforcement, government, and ... Knowledge on FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Familiarity with basic electronics, soldering ...

W S DARLEY & CO

Uncrewed Systems Specialist

Itasca, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Serve as a drone demo pilot, conducting live flight demonstrations to showcase UAS capabilities to ... Support responses to RFPs, RFIs, and government procurements, contributing detailed technical input

W S Darley & Co

Uncrewed Systems Specialist

Itasca, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Serve as a drone demo pilot, conducting live flight demonstrations to showcase UAS capabilities to ... Support responses to RFPs, RFIs, and government procurements, contributing detailed technical input

W S DARLEY & CO

Uncrewed Systems Specialist

Itasca, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Serve as a drone demo pilot, conducting live flight demonstrations to showcase UAS capabilities to ... Support responses to RFPs, RFIs, and government procurements, contributing detailed technical input

Nokturnal AI

Be Seen First

UAS Pilot Engineer

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$132K - $198K/yr

Experience flying an FPV drone. * Program and fly BetaFlight. * Wire management experience. * FAA ... Government security clearance. Why Nokturnal AI? At Nokturnal AI, you'll work alongside talented ...

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Government Drone Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do government drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 is a government drone pilot?

A Government Drone Pilot is responsible for operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for various governmental purposes, such as surveillance, mapping, disaster response, and infrastructure inspection. They ensure compliance with aviation regulations and safety protocols while executing flight missions. Depending on the agency, they may also analyze aerial data, conduct search and rescue operations, or assist law enforcement. The role requires certification, technical skills, and knowledge of drone laws.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a government drone pilot?

As a Government Drone Pilot, your daily tasks may include conducting drone flights for data collection, surveillance, mapping, or environmental monitoring, depending on the specific government agency. You’ll be responsible for pre-flight checks, safe operation during missions, data management, and maintaining flight logs according to regulatory requirements. Collaboration with analysts, engineers, or public safety personnel is common to interpret data and plan future missions. The role often requires adaptability, as assignments can vary based on weather, project needs, or emergency situations. This makes for a dynamic and impactful work environment where your contributions directly support public service and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government drone pilot?

To thrive as a Government Drone Pilot, you need strong skills in remote vehicle operation, spatial awareness, and knowledge of aviation regulations, typically supported by a relevant degree or military/aviation background. Certification such as the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License and experience with GIS mapping software and advanced drone systems are commonly required. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication enhance collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders. These abilities are essential for maintaining operational safety, data accuracy, and regulatory compliance in mission-critical environments.

Are there government contracts for government drone pilots?

Government drone pilots often work on contracts for federal, state, or local agencies involved in surveillance, inspection, or mapping projects. These contracts are typically awarded through competitive bidding processes and require relevant certifications, such as Part 107 remote pilot certification. Opportunities can vary based on government needs and project scope.

How much do government drone pilots earn?

Government drone pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of security clearance. Salaries can vary based on agency, responsibilities, and whether the role requires specialized certifications or technical skills such as operating advanced UAV systems.

How much do government drone pilots make?

Government drone pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of security clearance. Salaries can vary based on agency, responsibilities, and whether the role requires specialized certifications or technical skills.

Is there a demand for government drone pilots?

Government drone pilots are in demand for tasks such as surveillance, mapping, and inspection of infrastructure. Employment opportunities are often available through federal, state, or local agencies, and these roles typically require certifications like Part 107 and specialized training. The field is expected to grow as drone technology becomes more integrated into government operations.
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Government Drone Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Drone Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% As Needed, 73% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

GPS Surveyor Technician with AIS Infrastructure

ASRC Industrial

Wellton, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Company Overview
The AIS Infrastructure Group consists of four heavy civil construction companies. Our services include infrastructure improvement, heavy civil construction, and site development for government and state agencies and private enterprise across the United States. We do a wide variety of heavy civil projects, including highways, bridges, and DOT work, power plants, dams and reservoirs, underground utilities, and more.
We are Heavy Civil Construction and Sitework experts, but we specialize in providing peace of mind.
AIS Infrastructure Group is part of a family of companies unified by purpose to deliver safe, reliable solutions to our clients' unique challenges. We are committed to providing superior service and leaving things better than we found them.
Job Summary:
The GPS Grade Checker is responsible for GPS survey technology, equipment, and execution in heavy civil construction projects. This position plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate surveying, mapping, and data collection to support the successful execution of construction and industrial services projects. The GPS Grade Checker will assist field employees with laying out underground utilities, boundary lines, dirt cut-and-fill, retaining walls, etc. The right candidate will possess a strong knowledge of GPS technology, land surveying, and construction layouts, and must adhere to AIS Infrastructure's safety standards and protocols.
  • Coordinate GPS surveying and mapping activities on construction sites, such as recording locations of water lines, storm drains, walls, etc.
  • Execute ground surveys (using total station equipment), inspections, and data collection. Possibly aerial surveys, if able and experienced.
  • Assist field employees with laying out underground utilities, boundary lines, dirt cut-and-fill, retaining walls, etc.
  • Ensure the accurate setup and calibration of GPS survey equipment.
  • Conduct quality control checks on GPS and drone-collected data.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and surveyors to analyze and interpret survey data.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot GPS equipment.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and guidelines for GPS and drone operations.
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of GPS surveying procedures.

Requirements and Education:
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in GPS surveying is generally required to be successful in this role.
  • Strong knowledge of GPS surveying techniques and principles.
  • Familiarity with surveying, photogrammetry, and LiDAR technology.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Proficiency in GPS software and data processing tools.
  • Experience with total station equipment and Trimble or similar GPS equipment and software
  • Ability to interpret and analyze survey data and maps.
  • Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Customer service-oriented mindset.

Preferred Requirements and Education:
  • Knowledge of GIS software and applications is highly preferred
  • Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance to access secure facilities, including military bases is preferred.
  • Experience with drone piloting and FAA Part 107 drone pilot's license or equivalent certification is preferred but not required.

Benefits
We are dedicated to our employees' well-being and believe that every one of our employees has the right to work in an environment that is safe, welcoming, and inclusive. Because of this, we offer a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package that includes:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401k with a Discretionary Company Match & 100% Immediate Vesting
  • Company Paid Life and AD&D policy. (Voluntary Buy-up options)
  • Short & Long-Term Disability
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • AND MORE!

EEO Statement
AIS Infrastructure Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, gender, color, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, national origin, religion, marital status, ancestry, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, or any other factor prohibited by applicable law.

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