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Mapping Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT US Founded in 1866, The Sanborn Map Company (Sanborn) is one of the oldest continuously ... The Senior Pilot operates aircraft to fly aerial photo missions in support of mapping and LiDAR ...

ABOUT US Founded in 1866, The Sanborn Map Company (Sanborn) is one of the oldest continuously ... The Senior Pilot operates aircraft to fly aerial photo missions in support of mapping and LiDAR ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

Strategic Sales - Remote

OR · On-site +1

$250K - $350K/yr

Build CFO-ready business cases and run structured evaluations: discovery, workflow mapping, pilot scoping, and ROI modeling that convert to Pallet. * Document deal patterns, repeatable use cases, and ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient execution of complex drone ... Proven track record of flying drones for commercial applications in sectors like surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient execution of complex drone ... Proven track record of flying drones for commercial applications in sectors like surveying, mapping ...

The pilot also will document environmental conditions and known hazards, and coordinate with the ... Knowledge of 3D mapping/modeling Working Environment and Physical Efforts Work is typically ...

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Mapping Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do mapping pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for mapping pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mapping pilot?

Mapping pilots are specialized professionals who operate aircraft or drones to collect geospatial data for mapping and surveying purposes. They use advanced technology such as aerial cameras, LiDAR, or sensors to capture detailed images and measurements of land, infrastructure, or natural features. The data collected by mapping pilots is used in various industries, including construction, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and urban planning. Mapping pilots often work closely with surveyors, GIS specialists, and engineers to ensure accurate and precise data collection. Their work is critical in creating up-to-date maps and 3D models for analysis and decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mapping pilot?

To thrive as a Mapping Pilot, you need a solid understanding of aeronautical principles, geospatial data collection, and flight regulations, often supported by a commercial pilot’s license and relevant mapping experience. Familiarity with GIS software, aerial photography equipment, and drone or manned survey systems is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help ensure mission accuracy and effective coordination with ground teams. These skills are crucial for producing reliable mapping data and maintaining operational safety in diverse and dynamic field environments.

How do mapping pilots typically collaborate with ground teams and data analysts during a mapping mission?

Mapping Pilots work closely with ground teams to coordinate flight plans, ensure compliance with regulations, and address any on-site challenges such as weather or airspace restrictions. They also partner with data analysts to ensure that the imagery or sensor data collected meets the project's technical requirements. Effective communication is key, as pilots must relay real-time updates and adjust flight paths as needed based on feedback from both the ground crew and data processing teams. This collaborative process helps ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the mapping mission.

What is the difference between Mapping Pilot vs GIS Technician?

AspectMapping PilotGIS Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, pilot certification, GIS knowledgeAssociate's or Bachelor's in GIS, cartography, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, aerial mapping, aircraft operationOffice-based, GIS software, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageSurveying firms, mapping companies, government agenciesUrban planning, environmental agencies, utilities

Mapping Pilots primarily operate aircraft to capture aerial data, requiring pilot certifications and fieldwork experience. GIS Technicians focus on data management, analysis, and map creation using GIS software. While both roles support mapping projects, Mapping Pilots are more field and aircraft-oriented, whereas GIS Technicians work mainly in office settings with digital data. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Mapping Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Mapping Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Mapping Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Mapping Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Mapping Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Mapping Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mapping Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Mapping Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 75% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Senior Pilot

Sanborn Map

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

ABOUT US

Founded in 1866, The Sanborn Map Company (Sanborn) is one of the oldest continuously operating mapping and geospatial information technology companies in the US. Our work is highly visual, and our mapped data and applications are an essential part of todays information economy. We serve many industries and government departments and need to communicate effectively with them about our wide range of products and services. We remain at the forefront of the GIS and photogrammetry industry by offering high quality, technologically superior products and services backed by the industrys most experienced staff. We are looking for a talented individual to fill this role working in a collaborative environment ready to innovate workflow.

SUMMARY:

The Senior Pilot operates aircraft to fly aerial photo missions in support of mapping and LiDAR projects. As Pilot in Command of the aircraft, the pilot directs onboard crew to ensure safe and efficient acquisition missions. Responsibilities include performing flight operations within schedule and budget; coordinating with authorities to obtain flight permission/clearance within restricted or Class B airspace; maintaining flight records; and advising supervisors of any equipment maintenance requirements or safety concerns.

The Senior Pilot is responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of Sanborns fleet of turbine-powered aircraft, including Aero Commander, Navajo and King Air 300 series (if type rated). The pilot will lead flight operations for airborne data acquisition, primarily under FAA Part 91 regulations. This position requires extensive travel and overnight deployments, with absences from home base potentially exceeding 200 days per year. The pilot is expected to maintain the highest professional and safety standards in accordance with FAA regulations and company policies.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITES:

  • Adhere to FAA regulations and meet the requirements for a Pilot in Command (PIC) per FAA part 91.
  • Coordinate logistics and daily flight scheduling to ensure a smooth continuation of work.
  • Adhere to standard operating procedures, insuring compliance.
  • Participate in pilot training programs.
  • Attend periodic safety meetings and other safety training as needed.
  • Adhere to the company Flight Operations Manual (FOM).
  • Perform to project budgets.
  • Stay current with requirements of reporting mechanisms such as pilot logs, dailies, ACLs.
  • Provide weekly reports and other reports as necessary to executive management.
  • Review the weather forecasts and make recommendations for the relocation of aircraft and crew to maximize the acquisition of data.
  • Provide reports in reference to the progression of the photo acquisition.
  • Ensure that procedures with Air Traffic control centers and they are being followed.
  • Coordinate in obtaining airspace clearance for restricted airspace areas.
  • Coordinate with flight planning staff to insure efficient collection scenarios are devised for the type of aircraft to be used.
  • Collaborate with all flight operations staff as needed to ensure the maintenance and the operational status of the aircraft.
  • Present and demonstrate aircraft capabilities to clients as requested.
  • Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Not applicable.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION:

  • High school Diploma. Associates degree in aviation or equivalent experience preferred.
  • ATP required

EXPERIENCE:

  • Required minimum of 3,000 hours total flying time. 1,500 as pilot in command.
  • Preferred minimum of 1,500 hours MEL to be considered to operate multi-engine aircraft.
  • 1000 hours turbine minimum
  • Recent flight experience per FAA Part 61 & 61.57.
  • Proficiency with computers and software.
  • Geospatial industry aerial acquisition experience preferred.
  • Aero Commander and King Air 300 series type rating highly preferred.
  • Annual ground and flight training required in King Air 300 series aircraft.
  • Operate King Air 300 series aircraft for data acquisition primarily in night operations.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

  • Active commercial pilots license.
  • FAA IFR Rating.
  • 1st class medical certification from FAA.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

  • Approval from chief pilot and acceptance/insurability by Sanborns aviation carrier.
  • Successful completion of initial drug screen and subsequent drug screens.
  • Successful completion of a background check, including driving record.
  • Ground and flight training required in make and model of designated aircraft.
  • Ability to provide flight training in designated make and model to staff pilots.
  • Valid passport and ability to travel anywhere in North America.

Position Location: Nationwide

Salary Range - $35-45/Hour

Additional Requirements:

Applicant must live in the U.S. and be authorized to work in the U.S.

Sanborn offers a comprehensive health and wellness program which includes medical, dental, vision, 401k, holiday, PTO, EAP, disability and life insurance benefits.

TO APPLY: Visit our website: www.Sanborn.com under the Careers menu option to apply. We are accepting applications for this position until August 15, 2026. Sanborn is a Veteran/Disability Equal Opportunity Employer.