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Professional Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PhotoDrone.com®

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FAA-107 Drone Pilot with equipment

Fort Lauderdale, FL · Remote

$90/hr

FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot - Independent Contractor Join the Founding Team at PhotoDrone.com ® ... Own professional drone equipment capable of producing high-quality photo and video content. * Have ...

New

Veteran-friendly

TSMG

UAS Drone Pilot

Houston, TX

Minimum 3 years of professional drone piloting experience in complex operations. * Extensive experience with drone platforms such as DJI Matrice, Phantom, Inspire, or custom-built UAS. * Proven track ...

TSMG

UAS Drone Pilot

Houston, TX

Minimum 3 years of professional drone piloting experience in complex operations. * Extensive experience with drone platforms such as DJI Matrice, Phantom, Inspire, or custom-built UAS. * Proven track ...

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Pilot

Brentwood, TN · On-site

Drone Pilot Location: Middle TN Travel: ~10 percent Compensation: Based on experience Hiring ... This role is ideal for an experienced UAS professional who thrives in complex environments where ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Topeka, KS

$60/day

You will travel to wind farms across the United States, utilizing professional-grade drone ... As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

$60/day

You will travel to wind farms across the United States, utilizing professional-grade drone ... As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Denton, TX · On-site

$60/day

You will travel to wind farms across the United States, utilizing professional-grade drone ... As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$60/day

You will travel to wind farms across the United States, utilizing professional-grade drone ... As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$60/day

You will travel to wind farms across the United States, utilizing professional-grade drone ... As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Denton, TX · On-site

$60/day

You will travel to wind farms across the United States, utilizing professional-grade drone ... As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX

$60/day

You will travel to wind farms across the United States, utilizing professional-grade drone ... As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Topeka, KS · On-site

$60/day

You will travel to wind farms across the United States, utilizing professional-grade drone ... As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Denton, TX · On-site

$60/day

You will travel to wind farms across the United States, utilizing professional-grade drone ... As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ...

Kiewit Corporation

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX

... Drone Pilot to support aerial data collection and surveying efforts across transmission and ... Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others ...

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Pilot - 3rd Shift

Nashville, TN · On-site

Drone Pilot - 3rd Shift Location: Brentwood, TN Shift: Monday-Friday, 12a-8a Travel: ~10 percent ... This is a hands‑on, technology‑driven role ideal for professionals who excel in mission ...

Tex-Air Drone

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Drone Pilot & Data Specialist

Amarillo, TX · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

Drone Pilot & Data Specialist Travel: Regular travel across TX, OK, and NM Position Overview This ... Safely deploy professional mapping, inspection, and agricultural drones in line with FAA ...

New

Fulcrum Air

Drone Pilot & Robot Operator

Wellington, CO · On-site

We also provide opportunities for professional development and career advancement. If you are a drone pilot and robotic operator who is ready to hit the road and take on exciting new challenges, we ...

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All JobsProfessional Drone Pilot Jobs

Professional Drone Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do professional drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional 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.

How much do professional drone pilots earn?

Professional drone pilots typically earn between $25,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Freelance pilots or those working in specialized industries like cinematography or surveying can earn higher rates, especially with certifications and advanced skills.

Can you make good money as a professional drone pilot?

Professional drone pilots can earn varying incomes depending on their experience, specialization, and client base. Freelance pilots often charge hourly or project-based rates, with some earning a substantial income through aerial photography, videography, inspections, or surveying. Income potential increases with certifications, advanced skills, and a strong portfolio, but earnings can range from moderate to high based on workload and market demand.

What are some common challenges professional drone pilots face when working on-site, and how can they prepare for them?

Professional Drone Pilots often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, navigating complex airspace regulations, and ensuring equipment reliability in the field. To prepare, it’s essential to stay updated on local regulations, conduct thorough pre-flight checks, and have contingency plans for weather changes or technical issues. Additionally, strong communication with clients and team members helps ensure smooth operations and mitigates unexpected on-site problems.

Is there a demand for professional drone pilots?

The demand for professional drone pilots is growing across industries such as filmmaking, agriculture, construction, and inspection services. Employers seek pilots with FAA certifications, technical skills, and experience operating various drone models, leading to increasing job opportunities in this field.

What is a professional drone pilot?

Professional drone pilots are individuals trained and certified to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones for commercial purposes. They use drones for tasks such as aerial photography, surveying, inspections, mapping, agriculture, and cinematography. These pilots must follow regulations set by aviation authorities, such as the FAA in the United States, which often require obtaining a remote pilot certificate. Their expertise ensures the safe and effective use of drones across various industries.

What is the difference between Professional Drone Pilot vs Commercial Drone Operator?

AspectProfessional Drone PilotCommercial Drone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 CertificationFAA Part 107 Certification
Work EnvironmentVarious industries including photography, surveying, inspectionBusiness or client-based projects in similar industries
Employer & Industry UsageEmployers, freelance work, government agenciesCompanies, clients, service providers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, certifications, job scopeSimilar roles, certifications, job functions

Both Professional Drone Pilots and Commercial Drone Operators typically hold FAA Part 107 certification and work in industries like photography, surveying, and inspection. The main difference lies in terminology: 'Professional Drone Pilot' emphasizes individual expertise and professionalism, while 'Commercial Drone Operator' often refers to the business or service provider. Both roles involve operating drones for commercial purposes, with overlapping skills and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional drone pilot?

To thrive as a Professional Drone Pilot, you need expertise in drone operation, a strong understanding of aviation regulations, and an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Proficiency with flight planning software, GPS systems, and various drone platforms is crucial for efficient and safe operations. Excellent spatial awareness, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you manage complex tasks and coordinate with clients or teams. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure safety, legal compliance, and the delivery of high-quality aerial services.
More about Professional Drone Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Drone Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Professional Drone Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Drone Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Drone Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Drone Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Professional Drone Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Drone Pilot jobs are:
Professional Drone Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Drone Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Locum Tenens, 52% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

FAA-107 Drone Pilot with equipment

PhotoDrone.com®

Fort Lauderdale, FL • Remote

Veteran-friendly

$90/hr

Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

New

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Job description

FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot – Independent Contractor

Join the Founding Team at PhotoDrone.com®

Location: South Florida (Broward, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, and surrounding areas)

Are you an experienced FAA Part 107-certified drone pilot looking to grow your business while working with an exciting new company?

PhotoDrone.com® is launching in South Florida with the vision of becoming one of America's premier providers of professional drone photography services. We are building a network of highly qualified independent drone pilots who share our commitment to professionalism, safety, and outstanding customer service.

This is an opportunity to become one of our founding pilots as we launch locally and expand throughout Florida and eventually nationwide.

What We Do

PhotoDrone.com® connects residential, commercial, and government clients with skilled FAA-certified drone pilots for a wide range of aerial imaging services, including:

  • Real estate photography
  • Commercial properties
  • Construction progress documentation
  • Roofing and insurance inspections
  • Marketing and promotional photography
  • Accident scene documentation
  • Special events
  • Additional commercial aerial imaging services

Pilot Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Hold a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Own professional drone equipment capable of producing high-quality photo and video content.
  • Have reliable transportation.
  • Maintain current drone liability insurance.
  • Be legally authorized to work as an independent contractor.
  • Demonstrate excellent customer service and communication skills.
  • Deliver high-quality work on schedule.
  • Be dependable, professional, and safety-oriented.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with DJI or equivalent commercial drone platforms.
  • Professional photography and editing experience.
  • FAA LAANC knowledge and airspace experience.
  • Ability to travel within South Florida as assignments require.

Why Join PhotoDrone.com®?

  • Receive qualified customer leads.
  • Focus on flying while we handle marketing, scheduling, customer service, and business support.
  • Flexible schedule—you choose the assignments you accept.
  • Become part of a company with a vision for national expansion.
  • Opportunity to grow with the company from its earliest stages.

If you're a motivated FAA-certified drone pilot who wants to help build the next nationally recognized drone photography brand, we'd like to hear from you.

Apply today and become one of the founding pilots of PhotoDrone.com® in South Florida.

Company Description

About PhotoDrone.com®

PhotoDrone.com® is an innovative South Florida startup building a nationwide marketplace for professional drone photography. Using automation, artificial intelligence, and a network of FAA Part 107-certified drone pilots, we're making aerial imaging faster, more accessible, and more affordable for businesses and consumers. We serve industries including real estate, construction, insurance, legal, hospitality, and commercial marketing. As an early team member, you'll help shape our operations, technology, and culture while working directly with experienced business leaders. If you're entrepreneurial, enjoy solving problems, and want to help build a national brand from the ground up, we'd love to meet you.