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Isr Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Platform Aerospace

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Blackstone, VA · On-site

$30 - $70/hr

UAV PILOT/INSTRUCTOR I-III DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS REPORTS TO: FLIGHT OPERATIONS TRAINING ... Experience in deployed UAS ISR operations  * Vigilant Spirit experience   * Quattro FMS ...

ASEC, Inc.

Pilot, P-8A

Kent, WA · On-site

$65 - $68/hr

Join our expert team as a Part-Time P-8 Pilot, supporting the NAVAIR PMA-290 program office. In ... conduct ASW, AAS, and ISR missions. * Develop flight deck-related test plans and procedures.

Reliable Robotics

Lead Test Pilot

Mountain View, CA

$180K - $225K/yr

Experience performing a secondary skillset while piloting (e.g. tactical aircraft, firefighting, cropdusting, SAR, ISR, law enforcement, etc.) * Current Second Class FAA Medical Certificate or higher ...

Reliable Robotics

Lead Test Pilot

San Martin, CA · On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

Experience performing a secondary skillset while piloting (e.g. tactical aircraft, firefighting, cropdusting, SAR, ISR, law enforcement, etc.) * Current Second Class FAA Medical Certificate or higher ...

Reliable Robotics

Lead Test Pilot

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

Experience performing a secondary skillset while piloting (e.g. tactical aircraft, firefighting, cropdusting, SAR, ISR, law enforcement, etc.) * Current Second Class FAA Medical Certificate or higher ...

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Isr Pilot information

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How much do isr pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for isr pilot in the United States is $22.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

What are ISR Pilots?

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 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 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.

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Isr Pilot jobs near you
UAV Pilot/Instructor

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Platform Aerospace

Blackstone, VA • On-site

$30 - $70/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: UAV PILOT/INSTRUCTOR I-III

DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS

REPORTS TO: FLIGHT OPERATIONS TRAINING MANAGER

CLASSIFICATION: NON-EXEMPT
CLEARANCE: SECRET

LOCATION: BLACKSTONE, VA


This position may be filled at different levels depending on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience.


JOB SUMMARY:

The UAV Pilot/instructor will support the operation and training of Vanilla UAS. This role will oversee ground and flight operations during stateside training and overseas missions while providing technical support. The Senior UAV Pilot /Instructor will play a key role in mission success and program development through technical expertise and operational excellence.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Perform flight operation planning in support of customer-driven requirements
  • Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight safety checks
  • Remote pilot a UAS, following a specific flight plan or modifying flight plans to meet mission objectives
  • Deliver training programs to new UAV pilots, ensuring adherence to operational protocols and safety standards.
  • Support flight operations outside the continental United States for up to four (4) months at a time if needed
  • Conduct flight demonstrations for customers at remote locations
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues to maximize mission readiness
  • Ensure compliance with all FAA regulations as applicable

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL I:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 2-5 years of manned/UAS flight experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 years.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required)
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL II:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 5-7 years of manned/UAS flight experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 years.
  • 2+ Year of flight Instruction or customer facing technical training experience.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance.
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL III:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 7-10 years of relevant experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to 10 years.
  • 5+ Year of flight Instruction or customer facing technical training experience.
  • Minimum of 500 hours of flight experience as a Pilot in Command.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance.
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.


PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must have ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret level security clearance.

  • Completion of training or a degree in aviation, engineering, or a related field preferred
  • Experience in deployed UAS ISR operations 
  • Vigilant Spirit experience  
  • Quattro FMS experience  
  • Research and development experience  
  • Publication writing experience  
  • Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA  
  • Private Pilot License  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to obtain a DOT physical.
  • Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, including:
    • Prolonged standing, walking, bending, and kneeling
    • Perceiving differences in wire and indicator light colors
    • Operating hand and power tools
    • Lifting, carrying, and/or moving tools, equipment, and components weighing up to 50 pounds
    • Working in confined spaces and around aircraft
    • Ascending and descending ladders or stairs as required


The hourly range for this position is $30.00 to $70.00. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s relevant experience, education and training, job-related knowledge and skills, the scope and level of responsibility of the position, internal equity, and market/business considerations. The listed range is a general guideline and may vary based on the selected candidate’s qualifications and work location, where applicable.