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Military Drone Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used ... Military service strongly preferred, particularly experience in aviation, unmanned systems ...

In Colombia, over 100 military and police officers have been killed by cartel operated drones ... Group 2 drone threats. We have shot down dozens of drones in live fire testing, have active ...

Equipment Specialist

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$87K - $128K/yr

... drone operator license, as drone-based evidence collection is the primary method used at EHV ... Coordinate bidding contracts and monitor performance of contractors. * Investigate failures or ...

Equipment Specialist

San Angelo, TX · On-site

$87K - $128K/yr

... drone operator license, as drone-based evidence collection is the primary method used at EHV ... Coordinate bidding contracts and monitor performance of contractors. * Investigate failures or ...

... drone operator license, as drone-based evidence collection is the primary method used at EHV ... Coordinate bidding contracts and monitor performance of contractors. * Investigate failures or ...

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Military Drone Contractor information

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$68K

$93.8K

$121K

How much do military drone contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for military drone contractor in the United States is $93,810.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who builds drones for the US military?

Military drone contractors are companies that design, manufacture, and supply drones for the US military. Major defense contractors such as General Atomics, Northrop Grumman, and Lockheed Martin develop military drones like the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper, often requiring specialized engineering skills and security clearances. These contractors work closely with the military to meet specific operational needs.

What is the difference between Military Drone Contractor vs Military Drone Pilot?

AspectMilitary Drone ContractorMilitary Drone Pilot
CredentialsSecurity clearance, technical certificationsMilitary training, pilot certifications
Work EnvironmentContractor sites, military bases, remote locationsMilitary bases, operational theaters
Employer & IndustryDefense contractors, private firmsMilitary branches, armed forces

Military Drone Contractors focus on providing technical services, maintenance, and support for drone systems, often working for defense contractors. Military Drone Pilots operate the drones directly in military operations, requiring military training and certifications. While both roles involve working with drones, contractors are more technical and support-oriented, whereas pilots are operational personnel within the military.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Military Drone Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Military Drone Contractor, you need a solid background in aeronautics, electronics, and unmanned aerial systems, often supported by relevant degrees and security clearances. Proficiency with drone piloting software, GIS mapping tools, and compliance with military and FAA regulations is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, accurate, and secure drone operations critical to military success and national security.

What are some common challenges faced by Military Drone Contractors in the field?

Military Drone Contractors often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technology, ensuring compliance with strict security protocols, and working in high-pressure environments that may require quick decision-making. Collaborating effectively with military personnel and other contractors is crucial, as projects typically involve interdisciplinary teams. Additionally, contractors must stay updated on regulatory changes and maintain strong attention to detail to ensure operational safety and mission success.

Are military drones in demand?

Military drone contractors are in demand due to increasing reliance on unmanned aerial systems for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat missions. The industry requires expertise in drone technology, systems integration, and compliance with defense regulations, making skilled professionals valuable in this field.

How to become a drone operator for the US military?

To become a military drone operator, candidates typically need to join the armed forces and complete basic training, then attend specialized training programs for unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Requirements often include a high school diploma or equivalent, security clearance, and technical skills in operating and maintaining drone systems. Prior experience in aviation, electronics, or computer systems can be advantageous.

How much do military drone operators make?

Military drone operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and location. Contractors working in this field may also receive additional benefits such as hazard pay or overtime, especially when deployed in active environments.

What are Military Drone Contractors?

Military drone contractors are private companies or individuals hired by governments or defense agencies to develop, manufacture, maintain, or operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for military purposes. These contractors provide expertise in areas such as drone design, surveillance, intelligence gathering, and sometimes even drone piloting in conflict zones. Their work is crucial for modern military operations, as drones are increasingly used for reconnaissance, targeted strikes, and logistical support. Military drone contractors must adhere to strict security protocols and often work closely with government agencies to ensure compliance with national and international regulations.
More about Military Drone Contractor jobs
What cities are hiring for Military Drone Contractor jobs? Cities with the most Military Drone Contractor job openings:
What states have the most Military Drone Contractor jobs? States with the most job openings for Military Drone Contractor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Military Drone Contractor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,810 per year, or $45.1 per hour.
Drone Piloting Teaching Opportunities

Drone Piloting Teaching Opportunities

Concorde Education

Visalia, CA

$50/hr

Contractor

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

POTENTIAL INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR INSTRUCTIONAL ASSIGNMENTS

Program: Drone Piloting Instructor Opportunities

Location: On-site at partner schools; varies by assignment

Teaching Mode: In Person

Grade Levels: Middle and High School; varies by assignment

Schedule: Typically 1–4 instructional service hours per week after school

Program Length: Commonly approximately 10 weeks per assignment

Start Dates: Opportunities become available throughout the school year

Compensation: Typical compensation of $50+ per completed instructional service hour, depending on assignment scope, experience, location, schedule, and agreed compensation

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

Concorde Education is seeking independent instructional contractors to provide drone piloting and aviation enrichment services for students.

This is a potential independent contractor assignment, not an employee position. Contractors may choose whether to apply for, accept, decline, or ignore available opportunities.

Assignments vary by school, grade level, schedule, curriculum, available drones, classroom resources, flight space, and program objectives.

Concorde may provide curriculum guidance, lesson-plan suggestions, instructional resources, project ideas, or program objectives. Contractors may use their professional judgment to adapt instruction within the assignment scope and applicable site requirements.

Some assignments may introduce students to concepts related to the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Programs are educational in nature and are not intended to guarantee certification or examination outcomes.

ASSIGNMENT SCOPE

Depending on the accepted assignment, contractors may:

• Plan and facilitate engaging, age-appropriate drone piloting and aviation sessions;

• Introduce students to drone flight fundamentals, aviation concepts, safety procedures, and responsible drone operation through hands-on learning activities;

• Adapt instruction based on student experience levels, site requirements, available equipment, and program objectives;

• Guide students through flight exercises, mission planning, problem-solving activities, and introductory FAA Part 107 concepts, where applicable;

• Maintain a safe, respectful, inclusive, and age-appropriate learning environment;

• Communicate assignment-related needs or significant concerns with Concorde and school staff, as appropriate;

• Complete a brief session completion form after each scheduled session; and

• Follow applicable site safety, visitor, technology, emergency, student-protection, and drone operation procedures.

EXAMPLE PROGRAM TOPICS

Assignments may include topics such as:

• Drone components, controls, and pre-flight inspections;

• Safe and responsible drone operation;

• Basic flight maneuvers, navigation, and control techniques;

• Flight planning, airspace awareness, and weather considerations;

• FAA regulations and introductory Part 107 concepts, where appropriate;

• Drone applications in photography, mapping, inspections, agriculture, emergency response, engineering, and other industries;

• Mission-based challenges, teamwork, and problem-solving activities; and

• Careers in aviation, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), and related STEM fields.

Specific curriculum, drone platforms, flight activities, available equipment, and instructional requirements vary by assignment.

QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred qualifications include:

• At least 60 college credits, where required by the applicable assignment or site;

• Experience operating drones and knowledge of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS);

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate preferred for many assignments; some assignments may specifically require current certification;

• Experience teaching, tutoring, coaching, mentoring, or leading activities with school-age students;

• Strong communication, organization, and classroom facilitation skills;

• Availability to provide services for the accepted assignment schedule and communicate schedule issues as soon as reasonably practicable; and

• Ability to demonstrate safe drone operation while fostering critical thinking, responsible decision-making, and student engagement.

Preferred backgrounds may include FAA-certified remote pilots, drone instructors, aviation educators, commercial drone operators, engineers, STEM educators, photographers, surveyors, public safety professionals, military veterans with UAS experience, and others with relevant instructional or technical experience.

MATERIALS AND RESOURCES

Assignments may utilize school-provided drones, batteries, controllers, flight simulators, Chromebooks, tablets, curriculum resources, lesson plans, FAA educational materials, and other instructional resources, where available.

Contractors may use their own instructional methods and materials when appropriate, safe, age-appropriate, lawful, and consistent with the assignment scope and site requirements.

Purchases requiring reimbursement must be approved in writing by Concorde before they are incurred.

COMPENSATION

Compensation varies by assignment and agreed contractor terms. Many opportunities pay $50+ per completed instructional service hour with students.

Contractors may propose their desired compensation rate when applying. When proposing a rate, contractors should consider the overall assignment scope, including anticipated preparation, planning, commute, materials, schedule, and other business considerations.

Concorde may accept the proposed rate, decline the application, or provide a counteroffer based on the budget for the specific assignment.

Unless otherwise approved in writing, compensation is based on completed instructional service hours with students.

Payment for completed services is generally made by direct deposit on the fifteenth day of the month following the month in which services were completed, unless otherwise stated in the accepted assignment terms or required by applicable law.

APPLICATION AND ONBOARDING

Applicants selected to move forward may be invited to create a contractor profile and complete any required onboarding steps.

Applying, interviewing, receiving an invitation to create a profile, creating a profile, or completing onboarding does not guarantee selection, placement, or future assignment opportunities.

Potential assignments are subject to assignment fit, agreed compensation, completion of required onboarding, applicable background-check review, Fair Chance or pre-adverse action procedures where required, site-specific clearance requirements, and final written confirmation from Concorde Education.

Some assignments may require background-check authorization, fingerprinting, agency clearance, site-specific documentation, identification badges, proof of FAA certification (where applicable), or other compliance steps before services may begin.

Applicants should not provide criminal-history information unless and until requested through the appropriate legally compliant process.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Concorde Education considers contractor applicants without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law and is committed to respectful, inclusive, and student-centered programming.