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Isr Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Metrea Management LLC

Lead Training Captain

Temecula, CA · On-site

$195K - $215K/yr

... including airborne ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refueling, special ... Mentor and supervise instructor pilots. * Manage simulator and flight training resources.

Metrea LLC

Head of Crew Training KC135

Temecula, CA · On-site

$215 - $230/hr

... including airborne ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refueling, special ... Design and implement comprehensive training programs for pilots, navigators, and Air Refueling ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

... reconnaissance (ISR) missions. You will be responsible for the evaluation of the software and ... Certification Pilots, Flight Instructors, and Ground Instructors (ground test complete is the ONLY ...

System Dynamics Intl

MQ-9 Sensor Operator

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$78.94 - $83.73/hr

... Assist pilot through all phases of employment to include test planning, flight operations ... Provide academic instruction to include basic sensor operation, basic ISR and Launch & Recovery ...

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All JobsIsr Pilot JobsIsr Pilot Jobs in California

Isr Pilot information

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$9

$22

$30

How much do isr pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for isr pilot in California is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ISR pilot?

ISR Pilots are specialized pilots responsible for operating aircraft equipped with Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems. Their main role involves flying missions to collect real-time data and imagery to support military operations, security efforts, or intelligence gathering. ISR Pilots must be skilled in both piloting and operating complex surveillance equipment, and they often work with a team to analyze and share critical information gathered during flights. These pilots play a vital role in national security and situational awareness for various organizations.

What does an ISR pilot do?

As an ISR pilot, you are typically active in the military and work for private companies who contract with the military. Each mission is unique and often top secret. You are responsible for safely operating an aircraft, maintaining a diligent lookout, and using ground control station equipment. Your responsibilities and duties vary with each mission, but you must follow air traffic control clearances, assist with flight mission planning and briefings, use checklists and manuals, and follow all emergency and standard operating procedures. As an ISR pilot, operations may occur in the U.S., but it often takes place in foreign countries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ISR pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an ISR Pilot, you need expertise in aviation, mission planning, and surveillance operations, typically backed by a commercial or military pilot license and specialized ISR training. Familiarity with advanced surveillance systems, sensor integration, and secure communication platforms is essential. Strong situational awareness, decision-making ability, and teamwork are critical soft skills for handling dynamic environments and collaborating with ground and air crews. These competencies ensure effective intelligence collection, mission success, and the safety of both personnel and assets.

What are some common challenges ISR pilots face when operating in dynamic environments?

ISR Pilots often encounter rapidly changing mission requirements, unpredictable weather, and evolving threats in the field. They must be adept at quickly interpreting intelligence data, adjusting flight plans on the fly, and maintaining clear communication with ground teams and command centers. Adaptability and strong situational awareness are crucial in ensuring mission success and safety. Additionally, ISR Pilots frequently work as part of multidisciplinary teams, requiring effective collaboration and the ability to manage high-pressure situations.

What is the difference between Isr Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectIsr PilotDrone Operator
CredentialsCommercial pilot license, military or civilian aviation certificationsRemote pilot certificate, drone-specific training
Work EnvironmentAircraft cockpit, military or civilian airspaceGround control stations, various outdoor locations
Industry UsageMilitary surveillance, reconnaissance missionsAerial photography, surveying, security

While both roles involve aerial operations, Isr Pilots operate manned aircraft with extensive certifications and military or civilian aviation environments. Drone Operators control unmanned aerial vehicles remotely, often with different certification requirements. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in aerial surveillance and reconnaissance fields.

More about Isr Pilot jobs

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For Isr Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Isr Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Isr Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $45,785 per year, or $22 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer/Test Director, Emerging RPA and ISR Technology

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

Edwards, CA • On-site

$115K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) is seeking a Flight Test Engineer/Test Director, Emerging RPA and ISR Technology to join our growing team at Edwards Air Force Base, CA
This individual will possess the ability to understand air vehicle system architecture, design and subsystems integration and mission systems avionics. They will understand and track system operation limitations and ensure test execution is accomplished within the constraints of vehicle system limitations. This individual will conduct and direct flight test missions for emerging Remotely Piloted Aircraft platforms.
The selected candidate will:
• Work with emerging Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance systems.
• Possess an understanding of mechanical/electrical aircraft systems, sub-systems, and components to support proper test plans and data collection in flight test.
• Support test program for design reviews, scheduling, liaison with test ranges, etc.
• Support flight test of avionics systems, weapons, live fires, and sensor testing.
• Possess maturity and professionalism to develop as a Flight Test Engineer with the long-term objective to lead the execution of a flight test missions, briefings and oversee team of discipline engineers in Mission Control Room as a Test Director.
• Work well in a team environment as well as independently.
• Support generation of post flight mission reports and other detailed formal reports.
Required Experience:
Minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience
This individual will have a thorough understanding of aviation principles. They will be a team player and have a passion for flight test. This position requires strong organization skills, flexibility and the ability to adapt to responsibilities that may change and evolve, as to support the customers' requirements and needs. This position requires maturity, professionalism, and the ability to interact with all levels. This individual will possess and use excellent written and oral communication skills, and possess a reputation of being a team player.
Desired Experience:
• Ten (10) years of relevant experience.
• Experience in a mission control room as a flight Test Conductor or Test Director.
• Experience with USAF test and safety planning processes.
• Experience in Electronic Warfare and RF/IR CM.
• Experience with Air to Air and Air to Ground weapons
• Experience as aircrew member (Pilot, EWO, NAV, etc.)
• Experience in Mission Systems and/or Aero Performance/Flight Envelope Expansion and Vehicle Subsystems performance is a plus.
• Private Pilot license is a plus but not required.
Education Requirements:
Bachelor of Science in a technical field or equivalent, with number of years of experience determining level of position filled.
Clearance Requirements:
Top Secret Clearance required.
U.S. Citizenship required.
The pay range for this position in California is $115,000/year to $170,000/ year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract ranges, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via MTSI's internal or external careers site.
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