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Internship Drone Pilot Jobs in Mesa, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Internship Drone Pilot information

See Mesa, AZ salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do internship drone pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of May 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship drone pilot in Mesa, AZ is $17.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Drone Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Drone Pilot, you need a basic understanding of drone operation, safety protocols, and relevant aviation regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma and, in some cases, a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107). Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and drone-specific hardware is commonly expected. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to follow instructions set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient flight operations and reliable data collection in diverse environments.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an Internship Drone Pilot?

As an Internship Drone Pilot, you will typically assist with a variety of field operations, such as conducting aerial surveys, capturing imagery for mapping or inspection purposes, and supporting data collection for research or commercial projects. You may also be involved in pre-flight planning, maintaining drone equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines. Collaboration with engineers, project managers, and data analysts is common, offering a hands-on introduction to the broader workflow of drone operations.

What does an Internship Drone Pilot do?

An Internship Drone Pilot assists with operating drones for various purposes, such as aerial photography, surveying, mapping, or inspections, while learning under the supervision of experienced pilots. Interns are typically responsible for pre-flight checks, supporting flight operations, maintaining equipment, and sometimes processing data collected by drones. This role provides hands-on experience with drone technology and helps interns gain knowledge about regulations, safety procedures, and industry best practices. It is an entry-level opportunity ideal for those interested in pursuing a career related to drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

What is the difference between Internship Drone Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectInternship Drone PilotDrone Operator
CredentialsBasic drone certifications, training programsAdvanced certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining settings, supervised projectsField operations, client sites
Employer & IndustryTraining companies, media, real estateConstruction, agriculture, surveying

The main difference is that an Internship Drone Pilot is in a learning phase, gaining experience under supervision, while a Drone Operator is a more experienced professional responsible for executing drone flights independently. Internships focus on training, whereas drone operators handle real-world projects with greater autonomy.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Pilot jobs in Mesa, AZ? The most popular types of Drone Pilot jobs in Mesa, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Internship Drone Pilot jobs in Mesa, AZ? For Internship Drone Pilot jobs in Mesa, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Internship Drone Pilot job openings in Mesa, AZ as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 19% Internship, 15% Full Time, 64% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,710 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
PSMA STEM DRONE PILOT INTERN

$15 - $19.75/hr

Other

Posted yesterday


Job description

Phoenix STEM Military Academy seeks to develop young people to become better citizens and leaders with extraordinary character and a clear vision for success in post-secondary education at major universities, colleges, and top service academies.
Job Summary: The STEM Drone Pilot Interns will offer their skills as licensed drone pilots, serve as an aviation mentor and dedicate time to their school community to help build interest and knowledge of aviation and aviation related activities to the PSMA constituency.  This Internship will help the interns build relationships, improve written and oral communication skills and help build the efficacy of the STEM curriculum at Phoenix STEM Military Academy. 
This position will report to SFC Christopher Narvaez..
This student employee position will be compensated for time worked on an hourly basis. The work schedule for this role will consist of an estimated 8-15 hours per week - 2 hours/day after school hours for 4 days per week - for an anticipated period of 17 months beginning 3/1/24 and ending 6/30/25.
The STEM Program Lead Intern will complete duties such as the following: Design and facilitate drone training Assist in developing the spring and summer STEM drone program activities Provide prospective student outreach support to the Assistant Principal .Mentor students interested in STEM and aviation-related careers .Maintain and repair PSMA drones. Capture of still images and video by a remotely operated or autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle (drone)Assist in developing, marketing, and recruiting STEM aviation events Lead the PSMA Drone Club Assist in administrative tasks assigned by supervisor  The following knowledge, skills, and abilities are preferred:
Strong verbal and written communication skills Ability to collaborate with school staff and peer students as an active member of a team Proficient in the use of digital technology (ex: basic computers skills)
In order to qualify for this student worker position, candidates must be actively enrolled as a CPS student attending their junior or senior of high school during the 2023-2024 school year, must be 16 years of age and must  have an FAA Part 107 Unmanned Aircraft (Drone) License.  

e - Only students who will be 16 years of age or older by should apply to this job posting. If you are interested in this opportunity,