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Mapping Pilot Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

UAS Drone Pilot

Houston, TX

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 ...

TSMG

UAS Drone Pilot

Houston, TX

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 ...

CenterPoint Energy

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX

Job Summary We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Drone Pilot to support our electric and gas utility operations through aerial inspections, data collection, and mapping. The ideal candidate ...

CenterPoint Energy

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Drone Pilot to support our electric and gas utility operations through aerial inspections, data collection, and mapping. The ideal candidate ...

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Wheelman

Houston, TX · On-site

Interpret, understand and use maps and charts. * Communicate with Dispatcher, crewmembers, other Master/ Relief Captain/ Pilots, Port Engineers, Coast Guard Inspectors and others. * Direct crew to ...

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Wheelman

Houston, TX · On-site

Interpret, understand and use maps and charts. * Communicate with Dispatcher, crewmembers, other Master/ Relief Captain/ Pilots, Port Engineers, Coast Guard Inspectors and others. * Direct crew to ...

MICROVAST INC

VP of OEM Management

Houston, TX · On-site

Understand each OEM's technology road map, sourcing cycle, vehicle programs, production footprint ... Ensure pilot and prototype programs define scope, price, customer acceptance criteria, development ...

RAVN Aerospace

Intern (Flight Ops AI)

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$14.50 - $19/hr

RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its ... Ability to map existing processes andidentifyopportunities to make them faster, simpler, and more ...

RAVN Aerospace

Intern (Flight Ops AI)

Houston, TX · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its ... Ability to map existing processes and identify opportunities to make them faster, simpler, and more ...

Bolo AI

Strategic Account Executive

Houston, TX · On-site

You will build custom demos on real customer data, manage pilots hands-on, and close. The work you ... leaders, mapping their biggest pain points to what our platform does * Building a targeted demo ...

Bolo AI

Strategic Account Executive

Houston, TX

You will build custom demos on real customer data, manage pilots hands-on, and close. The work you ... leaders, mapping their biggest pain points to what our platform does * Building a targeted demo ...

MICROVAST INC

VP of Global Sales

Houston, TX · On-site

RFQ, Proposal and Pilot Management * Own all formal RFI, RFP and RFQ responses, quotations ... Strong command of consultative and value-based selling, opportunity strategy, account mapping ...

Chord Energy

Geologist

Houston, TX

Applies geological interpretation to map or model reservoirs to efficiently and economically manage ... Applies knowledge of geosteering & geology to select pilot wells, steer horizontal wells, and ...

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All JobsMapping Pilot JobsMapping Pilot Jobs in Houston, TX

Mapping Pilot information

See Houston, TX salary details

$47.3K

$125K

$191.9K

How much do mapping pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for mapping pilot in Houston, TX is $125,021.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,500.00 and $148,000.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Mapping Pilot jobs in Houston, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Mapping Pilot jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Mapping Pilot jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Mapping Pilot jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Mapping Pilot job openings:

Mapping Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mapping Pilot job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,021 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

UAS Drone Pilot

TSMG

Houston, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled UAS Drone Pilot to join our team for operations across various sectors, including but not limited to surveying, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and emergency response. As a Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient execution of complex drone missions, managing the technical aspects of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and adhering to strict regulatory standards across the United States.

This position requires a deep technical understanding of drone technology, flight planning, regulatory compliance, and risk management, with a focus on precision operations in both urban and rural environments. 
Key Responsibilities:
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute complex drone missions in accordance with operational goals, ensuring optimal flight safety and data quality.
  • Perform manual and autonomous flight operations using a variety of drone systems (e.g., multirotors, fixed-wing, hybrid), including the latest models in surveying, inspection, and mapping.
  • Work with cross-functional teams to integrate drone capabilities with other technologies (e.g., LiDAR, thermal imaging, photogrammetry, GIS mapping tools).
  • Oversee the collection of high-resolution aerial data (e.g., images, video, 3D models, thermal imagery) during flight missions.
  • Ensure proper storage and security of data collected during flights, complying with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR).
  • Perform basic post-processing tasks (e.g., georeferencing, stitching, creating flight logs) and work with external software platforms (e.g., Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Agisoft).
  • Conduct pre-flight equipment checks, including batteries, sensors, camera systems, and communication links.
  • Provide comprehensive mission reports, including flight logs, data analysis, and actionable insights for clients.
Qualifications:
  • Valid Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) permission, including Part 107, Part 135 (if applicable), and any specific local or state requirements.
  • Minimum 3 years of professional drone piloting experience in complex operations.
  • Extensive experience with drone platforms such as DJI Matrice, Phantom, Inspire, or custom-built UAS.
  • Proven track record of flying drones for commercial applications in sectors like surveying, mapping, infrastructure inspection, or agriculture.
  • Experience in working within restricted airspace and coordinating with aviation authorities (ATC).
  • Strong knowledge of geospatial software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS, Pix4D, Agisoft) and drone flight management tools (e.g., DJI Terra, Litchi).
  • Expertise in flying drones in diverse environments (urban, rural, industrial, hazardous).
  • Strong knowledge of drone flight systems, payloads (e.g., LiDAR, RGB cameras, multispectral sensors), and sensor calibration.
  • Familiarity with international regulations regarding drone operations, especially in the United States.
  • Problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues in the field.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for mission planning, data management, and safety protocols.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • High proficiency in data post-processing techniques and software tools (e.g., photogrammetry, georeferencing).
  • A degree or diploma in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Aviation, Geomatics, Engineering, or a related field is highly preferred.
  • First Aid Certification
  • Willingness to travel frequently across US for client projects and site-specific operations.
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.