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Mapping Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

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 ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

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 ...

Orange County Fire Authority

Fire Pilot

Irvine, CA

$122K - $164K/yr

... feet on map survey work, power line patrol or construction work, fire control work, rescue ... FIRE PILOT CHECK FLIGHT EXAMINATION Candidates who successfully complete the oral interview will be ...

Orange County Fire Authority, CA

Fire Pilot

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$122K - $164K/yr

... feet on map survey work, power line patrol or construction work, fire control work, rescue ... The Fire Pilot Check Flight is a pass/fail event. CHIEF'S INTERVIEW Candidates who successfully ...

FieldAI

Mapping Solution Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

We're looking for a Mapping Solution Engineer who can bring our 3D mapping solutions to life by ... Conduct technical demonstrations, pilots, and evaluations for prospective and existing customers.

FieldAI

Mapping Solution Engineer

Irvine, CA

$120K - $170K/yr

We're looking for a Mapping Solution Engineer who can bring our 3D mapping solutions to life by ... Conduct technical demonstrations, pilots, and evaluations for prospective and existing customers.

FieldAI

Mapping Solution Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

We're looking for a Mapping Solution Engineer who can bring our 3D mapping solutions to life by ... Conduct technical demonstrations, pilots, and evaluations for prospective and existing customers.

Seasats

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Typical working hours ... Familiarity with mapping tools, telemetry, or monitoring systems * Experience with video games ...

Seasats

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Typical working hours ... Familiarity with mapping tools, telemetry, or monitoring systems * Experience with video games ...

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Mapping Pilot information

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.

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.

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.

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

The most popular types of Mapping Pilot jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Mapping Pilot jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Mapping Pilot jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Mapping Pilot jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Mapping Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most Mapping Pilot job openings:

Mapping Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mapping Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Drone Pilot

TSMG

San Francisco, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and certified Drone Pilot to operate and manage drone operations for various projects. As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting skills, and the ability to analyze aerial data. 

Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping, inspection, and videography.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections.
  • Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition.
  • Follow all FAA regulations and safety guidelines during drone operations.
  • Plan flight paths and adjust them as necessary based on environmental conditions.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret aerial data for reporting and project needs.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure project goals are met.
  • Maintain detailed records of flights, including time, locations, and data collected.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drone equipment.
  • Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and regulations related to drone operations.
Qualifications:
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or equivalent).
  • Proven experience operating drones in various settings.
  • Strong technical knowledge of drone systems and software (e.g., mapping and modeling software).
  • Excellent spatial awareness and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to analyze data and present findings clearly.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with specific drone models (e.g., DJI, Parrot).
  • Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications.
  • Previous experience in (e.g., construction, agriculture, film).
We would be happy to get to know you and your skills better and see how we can support each other's growth.

Please apply and let's meet!
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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