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Licensed Drone Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rumple

Videographer & Drone Operator

Saint George, UT · On-site

Videographer & Drone Operator Full-time Salary DOE Description: St. George News is seeking a ... FAA Part 107 drone license and practical drone experience * Ability to set up and operate lighting ...

Rumple

Videographer & Drone Operator

Saint George, UT · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Videographer & Drone Operator Full-time Salary DOE Description: St. George News is seeking a ... FAA Part 107 drone license and practical drone experience * Ability to set up and operate lighting ...

Rumple

Videographer & Drone Operator

Saint George, UT · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

George News is seeking a full-time Videographer & Drone Operator to join our video production team ... Experience shooting on Sony mirrorless cameras (A7III preferred)FAA Part 107 drone license and ...

Turner Mining Group

Entry Level Drone Operator Pilot

$20 - $21/hr

Drone Operator Pilots have a very heavy schedule. There is a great deal of nationwide travel ... Must have a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License. * Preference will be given to candidates ...

Windrose Staffing

SURVEYOR

Raleigh, NC

Licensed Drone operator, Preferred but not required * Excellent ability to read and comprehend construction plans * Ability to build TIN / BIM maps * Knowledge or Certificate to Operate Drones

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Licensed Drone Operator information

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How much do licensed drone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for licensed drone operator in the United States is $19.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a licensed drone operator?

Licensed Drone Operators are professionals who have obtained the necessary certifications to legally operate unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) for commercial purposes. They are trained to handle drones safely and must comply with federal and local aviation regulations. Their work can include aerial photography, surveying, inspection, and mapping services for industries like real estate, agriculture, and construction. To become licensed, operators usually need to pass an exam and adhere to ongoing safety and operational standards.

What are common challenges faced by licensed drone operators during field operations?

Licensed Drone Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, strict airspace regulations, and potential equipment malfunctions during field operations. Navigating these challenges requires strong situational awareness, thorough pre-flight planning, and up-to-date knowledge of local aviation laws. Additionally, operators must coordinate closely with team members and clients to ensure data accuracy and safety throughout the mission. Developing problem-solving skills and maintaining communication are key to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Licensed Drone Operator vs Commercial Drone Pilot?

AspectLicensed Drone OperatorCommercial Drone Pilot
CertificationsRequires FAA Part 107 certificationRequires FAA Part 107 certification
Work EnvironmentVarious industries including photography, surveying, inspectionPrimarily commercial projects like real estate, construction, agriculture
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across multiple sectors for aerial tasksFocused on commercial applications for clients
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched together due to certification overlapRelated but more specific to commercial use cases

The main difference is that a Licensed Drone Operator is a general term for anyone certified to operate drones commercially, while a Commercial Drone Pilot emphasizes the professional application in specific industries. Both roles require FAA Part 107 certification and involve similar skills, but the term 'Commercial Drone Pilot' often refers to those working directly on client projects for commercial purposes.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a licensed drone operator?

To thrive as a Licensed Drone Operator, you need a solid understanding of aviation regulations, piloting skills, and often a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Familiarity with drone control software, mapping tools, and GPS navigation systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication skills help ensure safety and efficiency during operations. These competencies are crucial for adhering to legal requirements, maintaining operational safety, and delivering quality results in various drone applications.
More about Licensed Drone Operator jobs
What states have the most Licensed Drone Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Licensed Drone Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Licensed Drone Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Licensed Drone Operator jobs are:
Licensed Drone Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Licensed Drone Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,970 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Videographer & Drone Operator

Rumple

Saint George, UT • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Videographer & Drone Operator

Full-time
Salary DOE

Description:

St. George News is seeking a full-time Videographer & Drone Operator to join our video production team. This position supports the creation of commercials, local news features, branded content, and original shows produced for St. George News. You'll work alongside other videographers and our editing team to capture high-quality footage using Sony mirrorless cameras, operate drones, and assist with video, lighting, and audio setup on location and in studio. The role also includes light editing in Adobe Premiere.

The ideal candidate is collaborative, creative, and takes pride in contributing strong visuals that support the success of the entire production team. Some training will be provided.

Skills:
  • Experience shooting on Sony mirrorless cameras (A7III preferred)
  • FAA Part 107 drone license and practical drone experience
  • Ability to set up and operate lighting and audio equipment
  • Strong understanding of composition and camera movement
  • Light editing experience in Adobe Premiere (After Effects a plus)
  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs and assist with equipment setup and teardown
  • Professional, dependable, and comfortable working in a team environment
  • Basic understanding of green screens / chroma key
Details:

Creative, team-oriented, detail-focused, organized, flexible, and motivated in a fast-paced production environment.

Immediate Opening.

Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply