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$100

How much do local drone jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for local drone in the United States is $73.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.63 and $91.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get a job flying drones?

To get a job flying drones, you should obtain a drone pilot certification from the FAA or relevant authority, gain experience with drone operation and safety protocols, and develop skills in navigation, photography, or videography if applicable. Many employers also look for familiarity with specific drone models and software, as well as a clean driving record and the ability to work outdoors or in various environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drone Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Operator, you need strong piloting skills, knowledge of aviation regulations, and typically a remote pilot certification such as the FAA Part 107 license. Familiarity with drone flight control systems, mapping software, and camera equipment is essential for effective operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong communication help operators adapt to various environments and client needs. These skills ensure legal compliance, safety, and high-quality results in aerial photography, surveying, or inspection tasks.

What types of projects or tasks can a Local Drone Operator expect to handle on a regular basis?

As a Local Drone Operator, you can expect to work on a variety of projects including aerial photography for real estate, infrastructure inspections, agricultural monitoring, and event coverage. Your daily tasks often involve planning flight paths, conducting pre-flight equipment checks, capturing high-quality footage or data, and processing or delivering results to clients. Collaboration with team members such as data analysts, project managers, or marketing professionals is common, depending on the project's scope. Adapting to different environments and adhering to local regulations are key aspects of the role.

How much do people get paid to fly drones?

The pay for drone pilots varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $15 to $50 per hour. Commercial drone operators with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in sectors like filmmaking, surveying, or inspection services.

What is the difference between Local Drone vs Local Photographer?

AspectLocal DroneLocal Photographer
Required CredentialsDrone pilot certification, FAA Part 107 licensePhotography experience, portfolio, possibly certification
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, aerial filming, on-location shootsIndoor/outdoor, studio or on-site photography
Industry UsageReal estate, construction, events, inspectionsEvents, portraits, commercial, artistic projects
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve visual content creation, Local Drone operators focus on aerial footage using drones and require specific certifications. Local Photographers typically work with traditional cameras and may not need drone licenses. The work environments and industry applications differ, but both are essential for visual media services.

How much is Walmart paying drone pilots?

Walmart has hired drone pilots for delivery and inventory tasks, with reported pay rates typically ranging from $15 to $25 per hour. Compensation can vary based on experience, location, and the specific responsibilities of the role, often requiring certification and knowledge of drone operation and safety protocols.

What are local drones and what do they do?

Local drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operated within a specific geographical area, often for purposes like aerial photography, surveying, inspections, search and rescue, and delivery services. They are used by businesses, government agencies, and hobbyists to perform tasks that are difficult, dangerous, or time-consuming for humans. Local drone operators are typically responsible for piloting the drone, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance, and maintaining the equipment. The increasing accessibility and affordability of drones have expanded their use across various industries and communities.

What drone jobs are in demand?

In-demand drone jobs include aerial photography and videography for real estate, events, and media production, as well as inspection roles for infrastructure, agriculture, and construction. These positions often require knowledge of drone operation, relevant certifications, and the ability to interpret data collected by drones.
More about Local Drone jobs
What cities are hiring for Local Drone jobs? Cities with the most Local Drone job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone jobs? The most popular types of Drone jobs are:
What states have the most Local Drone jobs? States with the most job openings for Local Drone jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Local Drone jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Local Drone jobs are:
Local Drone jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local Drone job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Locum Tenens, 53% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,892 per year, or $73.5 per hour.
Lab Assistant - GIS and Drone Technology

Lab Assistant - GIS and Drone Technology

Harper College

Palatine, IL

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Harper College rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 560 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Performs routine preparation and setup of hardware and software required for instruction and student field experiences. Troubleshoots equipment and software to ensure that equipment is in safe operating condition for instruction. Organizes and manages the distribution, storage, and inventory of instructional supplies. Assists Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and drone program faculty and students in an instructional setting. 

We are Harper College...the college in your community.
The College was established by referendum in 1965 and opened September 1967. It is named for Dr. William Rainey Harper, a pioneer in the junior college movement in the United States and the first president of the University of Chicago.
Harper College is now one of the nation's premier community colleges and one of the largest, serving approximately 29,000 students annually in Chicago's northwest suburbs. The College's academic programs prepare students for rewarding careers and for transfer to four-year universities. Harper offers associate degree and certification programs, advanced career programs, workforce training, professional development, continuing education classes, accelerated degree options for adults and developmental education programs.

At Harper College, we are committed to fair and equitable compensation for all employees. In compliance with Illinois state law, we prioritize transparency in salary information. Our salary ranges reflect our dedication to attracting and retaining top talent while ensuring equitable pay practices.We encourage open discussions about compensation and invite you to reach out with any questions you may have regarding salary details. Harper College  typically offers compensation up to the median market rate for this position. We aim to ensure our pay is competitive while aligning with both the role's requirements and the candidate's experience. To review all benefit information visit us at: 

https://www.harpercollege.edu/about/directory/hr/index.php

The Business and Social Sciences Divisions provides transfer ready programs and courses in social science, such as anthropology, economics, geography, history, political science, psychology and sociology.

Education:     Associates degree or higher with college level certifications in GIS or Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). Valid Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. 

Experience:   1 or more years' experience as a UAS pilot. 1 or more years' experience using ArcGIS software or collegiate level GIS coursework. Must be fluent in English and have own transportation to reach local field learning sites.  Must have proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Ability to work independently and must have excellent customer service and communications skills (oral & written). Experience maintaining and repairing computers, UAS, or other technical equipment is a plus.

Note this campus is an on campus role and candidates will need to have the ability to come to campus during their scheduled work hours. 

Assists in setting up laboratories, workshops, and demonstrations as planned by faculty, including moving equipment to and from storage facilities to learning sites.

Ensures that all equipment is returned to secure storage after use. 

Identifies occurrences of equipment malfunction or breakage and needs for equipment replacement or addition.

Under the direction of the Program Coordinator, maintains inventory of program instructional supplies, equipment, and supplies. Unpacks, stores, and secures supplies and equipment.

Monitors students while they perform their drone flights and ensures they are following the proper safety procedures.

Monitors student use of the geospatial technology laboratory and drone flight areas.

Provides technical support to students while performing their laboratory assignments in a field or classroom setting.

Participates in program workshops, information sessions, recruitment and special events that require GIS or drone technology equipment.

Performs clerical assignments, such as, data entry using Microsoft Office or other software, making copies, filing documents, attaching labels etc.

Performs related duties as assigned.

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