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Part Time Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seventh Dimension

Drone Operator

Fort Liberty, NC · On-site

Drone Operator Type: Part-Time/ Contract Location: Fort Bragg, NC Position Summary : We are seeking ... Must possess and maintain a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate with a Small UAS Rating.

Flytrex

Runner (Delivery Driver) - Wylie, TX

Dallas, TX · On-site

$17/hr

Following successful pilots in the US, we're aiming to expand our operation nationwide and are ... Looking for part-time (36 hours or less a week) including Weekends * Required use of own vehicle

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Part Time Drone Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do part time drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time drone 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.

Can I fly a drone as a side hustle?

Part time drone pilots can often use their skills for side gigs such as aerial photography, videography, or inspections. These opportunities typically require a drone license or certification, and flexible scheduling allows pilots to work outside of full-time jobs. Building a portfolio and understanding local regulations are important for success in side hustles involving drone flying.

Are drone pilots in demand?

Drone pilots are in increasing demand across industries such as photography, surveying, agriculture, and construction. The growth of drone technology and the need for licensed operators with FAA certification contribute to job opportunities, especially for part-time pilots with skills in operating various drone models and understanding safety regulations.

What are part time drone pilots?

Part time drone pilots are professionals who operate drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on a part-time basis, often for specific projects or clients. They may capture aerial photos and videos, conduct inspections, survey land, or assist in search and rescue operations, depending on their area of expertise. These pilots typically work on a flexible schedule and may be employed by companies, work as contractors, or run their own small businesses. To work legally, they usually need to obtain proper licensing, such as the FAA Part 107 certification in the United States. Part time drone pilots are in demand across industries like real estate, agriculture, construction, and media.

What is the 1 1 rule for drones?

The 1-1 rule for drones states that pilots should keep their drone within visual line of sight at all times and maintain a safe distance from people and property. For part-time drone pilots, understanding and following these safety guidelines is essential to ensure legal operation and avoid accidents, especially when flying in different environments or for commercial purposes. Compliance with FAA regulations and proper training are also important for responsible drone operation.

What is the difference between Part Time Drone Pilot vs Part Time Aerial Photographer?

AspectPart Time Drone PilotPart Time Aerial Photographer
CredentialsFAA drone license, basic photography skillsPhotography experience, possibly FAA license for drone use
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, varied locations, technical drone operationOutdoor or studio, artistic photography focus
Employer & IndustryConstruction, real estate, media, inspectionsMedia, tourism, real estate marketing

Part Time Drone Pilots primarily operate drones for commercial purposes, requiring FAA certification and technical skills. In contrast, Part Time Aerial Photographers focus on capturing images from the air, often emphasizing artistic or marketing photography. While both roles may involve outdoor work and some overlapping skills, drone pilots are more technical, whereas aerial photographers focus on visual composition. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit based on skills and industry interests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part Time Drone Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Drone Pilot, you need strong piloting skills, knowledge of aviation regulations, and typically a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) from the FAA. Familiarity with drone flight control apps, GPS mapping tools, and image/video editing software is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication help ensure safe operations and client satisfaction. These skills are crucial for adhering to legal requirements, delivering high-quality results, and maintaining safety during drone missions.

How much does a drone pilot make per hour?

A part-time drone pilot typically earns between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks. Rates can vary based on the industry, such as photography, surveying, or inspection, and may include additional compensation for certifications or specialized skills.

What are some common challenges faced by part-time drone pilots, and how can they be managed?

Part-time drone pilots often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing regulations, maintaining proficiency despite less frequent flight time, and managing weather-related scheduling. Staying updated with FAA requirements and regularly participating in training or practice flights can help maintain skills and compliance. Additionally, effective communication with clients and team members is crucial for coordinating flight missions and ensuring safety standards are met.
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Part Time Drone Pilot jobs near you
S46 Remote Pilot Operator

S46 Remote Pilot Operator

Science Applications International Corporation

Burien, WA • On-site, Remote

Part-time

Posted yesterday

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 206 rated it services

Job description


  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position.

We are looking for Part-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Seattle TRACON (LS46) in Burien, WA, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Job Description:
The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator. The RPO operates a combination of a simulated radar display and voice communication system to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.
The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications: Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.
To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
  • Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood

Desired Skills and Experience:
  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
  • Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective oral and written communications skills
  • Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective team building skills
  • MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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