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Mapping Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UAV Pilot / LiDAR Photogrammetrist Join GPD Group, where our purpose is to improve the well-being ... mapping. * Knowledge of ASPRS accuracy standards, state survey standards, QA/QC workflows, and ...

New

If you are passionate about mapping and a high growth business this role is for you. Description Vexcel Aerial Imagery is looking for a Check Airman/Training Pilot. This position assists in the ...

If you are passionate about mapping and a high growth business this role is for you. Description Vexcel Aerial Imagery is looking for a Check Airman/Training Pilot . This position assists in the ...

Sheriff's Helicopter Pilot

Ventura, CA

$95.70K - $119.10K/yr

Incumbents serve as Pilot in Command (PIC) during a full range of helicopter missions, are ... Assists in training crews to operate safely in and around helicopters; use maps; operates fire and ...

Sheriff's Helicopter Pilot

Ventura, CA · On-site

$125.95K - $176.57K/yr

Incumbents serve as Pilot in Command (PIC) during a full range of helicopter missions, are ... Assists in training crews to operate safely in and around helicopters; use maps; operates fire and ...

Strategic Sales - Remote

$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 ...

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Mapping Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do mapping pilot jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mapping Pilot, and why are they important?

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 are mapping pilots?

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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Chief Pilot

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Chief Pilot

Pae

Atlantic City, NJ

$80.78K - $107.13K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position Description:

Amentum is a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative solutions, supporting critical missions across defense, intelligence, energy, and civilian sectors. Our people are our competitive advantage, driven by purpose, collaboration, and a commitment to delivering excellence for our customers and communities. We are currently seeking a Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Chief Pilot to support our FAA project at the FAA Tech Center Job site in New Jersey, the Atlantic City Area.

Position Description:

This position is to provide small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Chief Pilot in charge services in support UAS photogrammetric mapping and other advanced sensor mapping systems in support of the Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS) and environmental, facilities geospatial information management systems services. Duties include flight operations and mission planning, coordination of air space approvals, data collection, storage, operational and mission quality assurance, operational safety, analysis of spatial data, spatial data creation, aircraft maintenance and sensor configurations. The position operates within the Amentum Geospatial Information Systems Program in a team environment.

Tasks:

  • Operate as the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC), and/or Visual Observer responsible for flight planning, flight execution and risk management, handling, processing and review.

  • Conduct pre-flight planning to include operational briefings, analyzing weather forecasts, Notice to Airmen (NOTAMs), and airspace requirements.

  • Plan and implement operational risk management review for each mission.

  • Validate mission specific UAS/sensor capabilities, functions, sensor integration, suitability.

  • Conduct pre-flight planning, safety briefings, checklists, FAA airspace and airport tower coordination, and ensure overall mission-readiness

  • Perform drone pre-flight inspections, evaluate the mission and environment for tall structures, power poles, towers, other obstructions, various payload operations, camera settings, lighting conditions, and RGB (red, green, blue) check for thermal and LiDAR sensors

  • Execute operational needs and mission requirements as required.

  • Document and complete pre/post UAS mission reports.

  • Perform equipment testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

  • Document inventory of UAS spares/components and maintenance actions.

  • Communicate and coordinate with internal and external entities for safe flight operations.

  • Collect, handle and process UAS and related data, photogrammetry, ground surveys and design documents.

  • Perform ground control survey using RTK/PPK GPS survey equipment.

  • Process and evaluate data accuracy and sufficiency, and ensure deliverables meet expectations and professional standards

  • Prepare and complete reports related to collected field data, post flight missions, and pilot and maintenance logbooks

Position Requirements:

  • Must have graduated from an accredited college with a Bachelor's degree in aeronautics, engineering, computer science, environmental science or related field. **NOTE: A Master's or Doctoral degree in one of the above disciplines including or supplemented by the additional credits as shown may be substituted if the applicant holds a Bachelor's degree in another field. Applicants who do not possess the required education may substitute experience as indicated on a year-for-year basis.

  • Minimum of 2 years of UAS piloting experience.

  • Possess a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.

  • Valid drivers license required.

  • This position requires travel as needed on and off property to transport drone equipment and conduct UAS missions.

  • Very strong technical capacity; ability to learn and master multiple software packages, pieces of hardware and different workflows.

  • Computers and Technology Experience.

The following qualifications are desired, but not required:

  • A current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.

  • Experience in using GPS and GPS RTK field collection equipment and processing software products. An applied knowledge of surveying references such as coordinates systems, projections, datums, geoids and state plane zones.

  • Knowledge - experience with geospatial mapping software and technologies such as ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Pix4D, Drone2Map, etc. GIS - Survey Experience (GPS, Total Station, Topographic Mapping).

Salary Range: $80,779 - $107,131

Compensation Details:

$80,779 - $107,131

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

05/14/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.