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Mapping Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flagler County Sheriff's Office

FL · On-site

$74K - $92K/yr

Helicopter Pilot Responsibilities: * Operates agency helicopter during law enforcement, emergency ... Operates aviation navigation systems, airborne camera systems, moving map displays, mission ...

Northstar Energy Services

Drone Pilot

Midland, TX · On-site

The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate ... Experience with drone mapping, orthomosaic imagery, or photogrammetry softwar * Basic video editing ...

Kiewit

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX · On-site

... Drone Pilot to support aerial data collection and surveying efforts across transmission and ... Process and analyze data to produce accurate maps, models, and deliverables * Ensure strict ...

Air National Guard Units

AIRPLANE PILOT (TITLE 32)

IL · On-site +1

$131K - $171K/yr

Pilot advanced, single or multi-engine military airplane, high performance military fighter ... of maps and charts to determine routing, intermediate stops, alternate destination, fuel ...

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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All JobsMapping Pilot Jobs

Mapping Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do mapping pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 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.

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.

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:
What job categories do people searching Mapping Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mapping Pilot jobs are:
Mapping Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mapping Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Survey Pilot I

Survey Pilot I

Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd.

Chesterfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Short Description
Bowman has an opportunity for a Survey Pilot I to join our team in Chesterfield, MO.
At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That's why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.
Purpose
The Survey Pilot I plans, prepares, and executes aerial photography/data acquisition missions utilizing single-engine and multi-engine aircraft in a safe manner that ensures the highest product quality. May work as an Aerial Acquisition Technician (AAT) as scheduled or needed. Key responsibilities include attaining imagery and data to meet project specifications efficiently without the need for re-flight or additional production effort required due to quality or accuracy deficiencies.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Direction
  • Receives guidance from Chief Pilot, Assistant Chief Pilot, Aerial Acquisition Manager, Flight Instructors, and/or other survey pilots for aircraft performance, flight safety, and air traffic control issues.

At the Operational and Company Level
  • Contribute insights and suggestions for updates to the Flight Operations Manual and Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Engage in periodic training sessions to maintain and enhance piloting skills and knowledge.

Do the Work
  • Obtain project specifications and maps to fully understand mission requirements.
  • Conduct thorough pre-flight checks, alerting the Director of Maintenance to any irregularities.
  • Liaise with air traffic control (ATC), Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON), Military, and Special Use Airspace authorities to secure airspace access.
  • Confirm all mission-critical supplies and documents are onboard in collaboration with the Aerial Acquisition Administrator.
  • Actively participate in daily meetings to strategize and determine mission details, including aircraft relocation logistics.
  • Operate the aircraft adhering to Federal Aviation Regulations, Flight Operations Manual, STCs, SOPs, and company policies.
  • Continuously assess weather conditions and coordinate with Flight Operations to maximize data acquisition potential.
  • Ensure the aircraft is safely secured after the mission, conducting post-flight inspections and necessary equipment adjustments.
  • Manage fueling and loading, executing weight and balance calculations to ensure operational safety standards are met.
  • Utilize the Company's multi-service credit card responsibly for fuel, minor repairs, and hangar fees, ensuring all receipts are submitted.
  • Diligently maintain personal and aircraft flight logs, as well as approve flight reports to uphold company records.
  • Organize travel essentials including rental vehicles, hotels, and airline reservations, submitting detailed and accurate expense reports.

Confirm the availability and adequacy of maintenance facilities and hangar space at base airports.
Success Metrics and Competencies
  • High level of integrity in every aspect of the work being performed.
  • Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
  • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with all levels of the organization, external partners, clients, and sub-consultants.
  • Highly motivated and problem-solving attitude.
  • Strong sense of urgency in responding to clients and with internal teams.
  • High degree of discretion and ability to manage highly confidential information.
  • Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
  • Self-reliance and ability to operate independently with limited direction.
  • Commitment to promoting the reputation of the company through quality of work.
  • Aspirations to grow professionally and advance within the company.
  • Ability to effectively manage multiple time-sensitive tasks.
  • Data analysis and interpretation skills.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent required. Associate's degree in aviation or related field preferred.
  • Valid Pilot's certificate (Commercial, Instrument, Multi-Engine), High Performance endorsements.
  • Current First or Second-Class Medical certification required.
  • 250+ hours total flight time, 500+ flight hours, preferred.
  • Valid Driver's License (with safe driving record) and Passport (or ability to obtain one within three months of hire).
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) and experience using computers and managing files, including data uploads.
  • Cell phone with texting capabilities.
  • Personal Credit Card with $3,000 available credit to procure commercial flights, hotel, meals, and rental cars. Weekly reimbursement is made upon submission of expense report.

About Bowman
Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We're committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.
A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
  • Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.
Physical Demands and Working Environment
  • Ability to sit in a confined space in the plane for up to six (6) hours at a time.
  • Visual acuity to see close-up, distance, color, periphery, night, and depth.
  • Ability to input data using a computer keyboard and manipulate small equipment parts.
  • Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds of equipment and supplies.
  • Ability to adapt to changing temperatures, noise, light, and altitude.
  • Ability to pass DOT pre-employment, random and post-accident drug tests.
  • Ability to reach, climb, bend, and stretch.
  • Ability to speak and hear clearly to exchange accurate information with customers, employees, and related business professionals.
  • Within single-engine, twin-engine, or turboprop aircraft.
  • Aircraft hangar.
  • Mobility around an office environment.
  • Exposure to odors, sound, altitude changes and weather daily.

#LI-FS1
Job Description Disclaimer
Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.
Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.
Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.
If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.

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