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Imaging Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do imaging pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for imaging 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 an Imaging Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Imaging Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong flight navigation skills, and experience in aerial imaging or survey missions. Familiarity with specialized imaging equipment, GPS mapping systems, and often certifications like Part 107 for drones are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for adapting to changing flight conditions and coordinating with ground teams. These competencies ensure safe operations, high-quality data capture, and successful mission outcomes in demanding aerial environments.

How does an Imaging Pilot typically collaborate with other team members during aerial survey missions?

Imaging Pilots often work closely with survey coordinators, camera operators, and data analysts to ensure the success of aerial imaging missions. Before each flight, they participate in mission planning meetings to review objectives, flight paths, and equipment requirements. During the mission, Imaging Pilots maintain constant communication with the crew to adjust flight patterns for optimal image capture and safety. After flights, they may assist in initial data checks and debriefings to quickly address any potential issues, making teamwork and clear communication essential parts of the role.

What is the difference between Imaging Pilot vs Radiologic Technologist?

AspectImaging PilotRadiologic Technologist
Required CredentialsCommercial Pilot License, specialized imaging trainingCertification in radiologic technology (ARRT), state licensing
Work EnvironmentAircraft, remote or mobile imaging sitesHospitals, clinics, imaging centers
Industry UsageMedical imaging via aircraft, emergency responseMedical imaging in healthcare facilities

Imaging Pilots operate aircraft equipped with imaging technology, often in remote locations, requiring pilot licenses and specialized imaging training. Radiologic Technologists work in healthcare settings, performing diagnostic imaging procedures, and need certification in radiologic technology. While both roles involve imaging, Imaging Pilots focus on aerial imaging missions, whereas Radiologic Technologists work within medical facilities.

What is an Imaging Pilot?

An Imaging Pilot is a professional responsible for operating aircraft or drones equipped with cameras or other imaging technology to capture aerial photographs, videos, or data for various purposes. These pilots often work in industries such as agriculture, real estate, surveying, environmental monitoring, or filmmaking. Their duties include planning flight paths, ensuring the safety and legality of operations, and processing the captured images or data. Strong technical knowledge of both aviation and imaging systems is essential for this role, as well as attention to detail and adherence to regulatory requirements.
More about Imaging Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Imaging Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Imaging Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Imaging Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Imaging Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Imaging Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Imaging Pilot jobs are:
Imaging Pilot jobs near you

Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Pilot

Trident Industries

Saint Charles, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
At Trident Industries, we combine boots-on-the-ground expertise with advanced aerial technology to support infrastructure and energy projects across the Midwest. As demand increases for high resolution data capture including photogrammetry and LiDAR mapping, thermal inspections, video and photo documentation of transmission corridors, we are seeking a highly skilled and reliable UAS Pilot to join our field operations team.
This position is not limited to flying drones. It requires a professional who can manage the full data acquisition lifecycle. From planning and conducting safe and compliant UAS missions to post-processing raw data into meaningful geospatial and visual products, this role is central to helping our teams and clients make informed decisions.
If you are a certified remote pilot with a passion for geospatial data and commitment to accuracy, this is your opportunity to contribute to high-impact projects across the utility and construction sectors.
Why Trident Industries?
Purpose-Driven Work
Your aerial missions directly support engineering, inspection, and construction teams by delivering aerial and vehicle mounted data capture.
Technical Growth
Whether you're experienced with photogrammetry or looking to deepen your LiDAR post-processing skills, we provide training, collaboration, and growth opportunities.
Professional Culture
We prioritize safety, quality, and communication at every step, from flight planning to final data delivery.
Collaborative Environment
You will work closely with our GIS team, project managers, and inspection crews to ensure accurate, timely, and useful deliverables.
Comprehensive Benefits
We offer health insurance, a 401(k) match, paid time off, and ongoing training to support your professional success.
Responsibilities:
  • Review project scope and flight parameters for upcoming jobs.
  • Conduct pre-flight planning, including weather analysis, airspace checks, and site review.
  • Execute safe and compliant UAS missions for use cases including mapping, aerial photogrammetry, LiDAR collection, thermal inspections, and video capture.
  • Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections of drones and payload equipment.
  • Process photogrammetry data into accurate orthomosaics, digital elevation and surface models.
  • Convert LiDAR point cloud data into classified surfaces, elevation models, and vegetation analysis using software like PC Master Pro or similar.
  • Generate thermal maps and temperature overlays by calibrating radiometric data for detecting hotspots, equipment performance, or structural deficiencies.
  • Edit and compile high-resolution aerial video footage for client documentation and internal presentations.
  • Ensure deliverables meet quality and accuracy standards through control point verification, coordinate system checks, and precision measurements.
  • Collaborate with GIS specialists to integrate processed data into dashboards, mapping platforms, or asset management systems.
  • Label, structure, and upload all processed data, maps, and media to internal databases or client platforms.
  • Communicate deliverable status with project managers and field teams, providing any necessary supporting documentation.
  • Follow naming conventions and metadata requirements for seamless downstream use.
  • Perform firmware updates, calibrations, and preventive maintenance on drones, payloads, and accessories.
  • Maintain inventory of batteries, SD cards, and backup equipment to ensure deployment readiness.
  • Report any technical issues and coordinate repairs when necessary.
  • Submit accurate daily timesheets and mission notes.
  • Participate in team briefings, safety meetings, and project reviews.
  • Maintain a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Stay adaptable to shifting weather conditions, last-minute site changes, and dynamic field environments.
  • Operate company trucks and utility task vehicles (UTVs) in support of field and flight operations.
  • Demonstrate familiarity with aerial surveying systems, mapping technologies, LiDAR platforms, and geospatial data collection equipment.
  • Perform field setup and verification of ground control points (GCPs) to improve mapping accuracy and survey consistency.
  • Operate RTK-enabled drone systems and maintain supporting field hardware during active project operations.

Requirements
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required
  • 1 or more years of experience in UAS data acquisition and post-processing for construction, energy, environmental, or utility projects
  • Strong experience with photogrammetry, LiDAR processing, and thermal image interpretation
  • Proficiency with software such as ArcGIS Site Scan, Adobe Premiere, UGCS, Google Earth Pro or similar.
  • Ability to process raw flight data into client-ready deliverables including orthomosaics, 3D models, point clouds, DEMs, thermal overlays, and video compilations
  • Strong attention to detail, data organization, and file management
  • Willingness to travel and work in various field conditions

Ready to Deliver Insight from Above?
At Trident Industries, we are looking for UAS professionals who know how to fly, process, and produce actionable results. Your ability to transform aerial data into meaningful geospatial and visual products will help drive smarter infrastructure decisions and elevate project performance.
Apply today and become a vital part of our high-performance field operations team.

Apply