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Pilot Uav Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The UAV Field Specialist is a certified FAA Part 107 pilot responsible for executing all aspects of UAV missions including flying, GPS ground control point capture, and other field tasks as needed.

Military background in aviation (e.g., UAV operator, pilot, or aircrew) * Instructor pilot or evaluator experience * Familiarity with FAA Part 107 and/or COA operations * Experience in test ...

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

Pilot drones in flight testing, gain deep familiarity with the system and aircraft performance ... Technical knowledge of UAV components * Betaflight and ESC software * Mechanical and electrical ...

Test Pilot

East Garrison, CA · On-site

$187.40 - $250/hr

Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

Pilot drones in flight testing, gain deep familiarity with the system and aircraft performance ... Technical knowledge of UAV components * Betaflight and ESC software * Mechanical and electrical ...

This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV Pilot / Operator position This is a Full-time position Requirements Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent and at least one (1) year of experience in a ...

Showing results 21-40

Pilot Uav information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do pilot uav jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot uav 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 is a pilot UAV?

A Pilot UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) operates drones or remotely piloted aircraft for various missions, including aerial surveillance, mapping, military operations, and commercial applications. They are responsible for flight planning, navigation, monitoring aircraft performance, and complying with safety regulations. UAV pilots often work in defense, agriculture, law enforcement, or disaster response fields.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a pilot UAV?

UAV Pilots are responsible for pre-flight planning, conducting thorough equipment checks, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements before missions. Their daily work includes operating the UAV during aerial surveys, inspections, or data collection, and monitoring live feeds to ensure precise execution. After each mission, UAV Pilots must log flight data, maintain equipment, and often collaborate with project managers or engineers to interpret results. Many roles also require adapting to changing weather or mission priorities and working as part of a multidisciplinary team, making flexibility and communication important.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the pilot UAV position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pilot UAV, you need strong skills in remote piloting, situational awareness, and an understanding of aeronautical regulations, usually supported by a relevant license or certification such as a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Familiarity with ground control stations, navigation software, and mission planning tools is essential. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and clear communication are valuable soft skills in this position. These abilities ensure safe, accurate, and efficient UAV operations in compliance with industry standards and mission goals.

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What cities are hiring for Pilot Uav jobs?

Cities with the most Pilot Uav job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot Uav jobs?

The most popular types of Pilot Uav jobs are:

What states have the most Pilot Uav jobs?

States with the most job openings for Pilot Uav jobs include:

Infographic showing various Pilot Uav job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

UAV Instructor/Operator III

General Atomics

Fort Carson, CO • On-site

$95K - $146K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Systems Integration, LLC (GA-SI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a provider of military and commercial engineering services. GA-SI is a leading-edge expert in systems integration technologies, reliability improvements, and controls system design.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Under general supervision, this position is responsible for coordinating ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution and briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and ground and flight safety. Serves as Instructor/Operator of assigned Unmanned Air Vehicle(s) (UAV).
  • Coordinates and actively participates in ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and safety.
  • May be called upon to remotely pilot vehicle to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability during engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support through specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers.
  • Defines, plans, organizes and executes flight programs and flight test events. ensures compliance with service guidance, company policy and procedures and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
  • May conduct demonstrations and tests of assigned UAV(s).
  • May represent the organization with military and commercial customers.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices. familiarity with Army forms, records and publications as well as Contractor Flight and Ground Operations procedures and records (DCMA 8210).

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires education training equivalent to the completion of a four-year technical degree or trade school equivalency and five or more years in UAV operation or aviation. Equivalent professional or military experience in UAV or aviation may be substituted in lieu of education.
  • Must demonstrate a basic understanding of UAV and FAA principles, theories and concepts.
  • Must possess at least six hundred (600) hours in a OSGCS/UGCS of which two hundred (200) hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
  • Graduate of DA or DES IO course.
  • Ability to travel on CONUS and OCONUS.
  • Ability to maintain a FAA Class II flight physical.
  • Good analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to accurately interface with all levels of employees and military and civilian customers, contractors and aircrew.
  • Basic knowledge of computer operations and applications.
  • The ability to work both independently and in a team environment is essential as is the ability to work extended hours and travel as required.

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955