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Remote Aircraft Pilot Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Overview The Remote Sensing Technician (RST) acquires airborne and Geodetic ground survey data. The ... Work closely with pilots/survey crews in small aircraft/helicopters/vehicles while acquiring ...

Staff Systems Engineer, Integration

OR · On-site +1

$180K - $240K/yr

Merlin is a venture backed aerospace startup building a non-human pilot to enable both reduced crew ... Demonstrated familiarity with general aviation aircraft and integration. Nice to Have: * Specific ...

Staff Systems Engineer, Integration

OR · On-site +1

$180K - $240K/yr

Merlin is a venture backed aerospace startup building a non-human pilot to enable both reduced crew ... Demonstrated familiarity with general aviation aircraft and integration. Nice to Have: * Specific ...

Remote Aircraft Pilot information

See Oregon salary details

$50.8K

$92.1K

$140.6K

How much do remote aircraft pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote aircraft pilot in Oregon is $92,137.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $107,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote aircraft pilot?

Remote Aircraft Pilots, also known as drone pilots or UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) operators, are professionals who control aircraft remotely without being onboard. They use specialized equipment and software to fly drones for various purposes, such as aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, delivery, or inspection. Remote Aircraft Pilots must understand aviation regulations, safety protocols, and the technical aspects of the drones they operate. Their work can support industries like filmmaking, construction, law enforcement, and environmental monitoring.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a remote aircraft pilot?

To thrive as a Remote Aircraft Pilot, you need strong piloting skills, familiarity with aviation regulations, and typically a remote pilot certificate such as the FAA Part 107. Proficiency with drone flight software, GPS navigation systems, and camera or sensor integration is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, compliant, and efficient remote aircraft operations in various environments.

How much do remote aircraft pilots make?

Remote aircraft pilots, often called drone pilots or UAV operators, typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the operations. Salaries can vary based on industry, such as filmmaking, surveying, or agriculture, and may include freelance or contract work with flexible schedules.

What are common challenges faced by remote aircraft pilots, and how can they be addressed?

Remote Aircraft Pilots often encounter challenges such as communication delays with ground teams, adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, and managing long periods of focused attention during flight operations. To address these issues, pilots should develop strong situational awareness, maintain regular communication protocols, and participate in ongoing training to stay current with technology and regulations. Building good teamwork with support staff and staying up to date with best practices can help ensure safe and efficient operations in this dynamic field.

How do you become a remote aircraft pilot?

To become a remote aircraft pilot, you typically need to obtain a remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by passing a knowledge test and undergoing background checks. You must also be at least 16 years old, be vetted for compliance with regulations, and operate drones within the guidelines set for commercial or recreational use, often using specific remote control equipment and safety procedures.

What is the difference between Remote Aircraft Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectRemote Aircraft PilotDrone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot CertificateFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (often required)
Work EnvironmentCommercial, industrial, or government settings, often involving larger aircraft or specialized operationsMedia, photography, surveying, or recreational use, often with smaller drones
Employer & IndustryAirlines, government agencies, private companiesMedia companies, survey firms, hobbyists

Remote Aircraft Pilots and Drone Operators both require FAA Part 107 certification and operate remotely, but Remote Aircraft Pilots typically handle larger, more complex aircraft in commercial or industrial settings, while Drone Operators often focus on smaller drones for media, surveying, or recreational purposes. The roles overlap in certification and remote work environment but differ in aircraft size and industry application.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Aircraft Pilot jobs in Oregon? For Remote Aircraft Pilot jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Aircraft Pilot jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Aircraft Pilot jobs in Oregon are:
Infographic showing various Remote Aircraft Pilot job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,137 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Remote Sensing Technician

NV5

Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 443 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

The Remote Sensing Technician (RST) acquires airborne and Geodetic ground survey data.  The RST is a field based position that collects aerial survey data with topo and bathymetric LIDAR as well as thermal, hyperspectral, and multispectral imagery sensor systems throughout North America.  Alternatively, the RST will be collecting ground data using GNSS survey tools, water monitoring tools, thermal loggers, spherical camera, and mobile LIDAR mapping systems. In the aerial application the RST's work closely in a collaborative team environment with a captain in small aircraft/helicopters while flying acquisition missions.  When collecting control on the ground, the RST will work in a solo environment in remote locations.  Examples of collection areas would be urban roads, deep forest, mountainous, agriculture, and riverine environments. RST's configure and monitor sensor systems, track acquisition progress, download/process/ship geospatial datasets to production offices.   

Work Environment:

  • This position reports to the Acquisition Aanagement Team with primary hangar and survey locations in Oregon, Wisconsin, and Virginia. This position will function as a remote position but the employee is responsible for transportation to a medium or large hub primary commercial airport at which point company provides onward travel to and from work locations throughout North America.
  • This position is included in the company's hearing conservation program.

NV5 is a global technology solutions and consulting services company with a workforce of over 4,500 professionals in more than 100 offices worldwide.  NV5's continued growth has been spurred through strategic investments in firms with unique capabilities to help current and future customers solve the world's toughest problems.  The NV5 family brings together talent across a wide range of markets and fields, including Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, Architects, Photogrammetrists, GIS Professionals, Software Developers, IT, Project Management Professionals, and more.

At NV5 Geospatial, we are a collaboration of intelligent, innovative thinkers who care for each other, our communities, and the environment.  We value both heart and head, the diversity of our people, and their experiences because that is how we continue to grow as leaders in our industry and expand our individual and collective potential.

Responsibilities
  • Acquire airborne data using LiDAR and imagery sensor systems.
  • Work closely with pilots/survey crews in small aircraft/helicopters/vehicles while acquiring geospatial data.
  • Collect, download, and ship gathered geospatial data daily after acquisition.
  • Complete extensive field documentation.
  • Extensive travel by automobile and aircraft.
  • Work rotations targeting 16 days on, followed by 12 days off.
  • Ensure safe and secure use of company vehicles, equipment, and instrumentation.
  • Troubleshoot and install sensor systems with support.
  • Comply with all policies and procedures developed for safety and operations in dynamic environment. 
Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

  • Interest in GIS and remote sensing
  • Understanding of geospatial and aerial survey concepts
  • Understanding of GNSS survey methods
  • Effective technical writing and communication
  • Proficient and experienced in utilization of cloud-based technology
  • Capable of independent decision making and problem-solving
  • Comfortable flying in small aircraft for extensive periods of time across North America 

Minimum Qualifications 

  • A valid driver's license
  • Field experience
  • Experience with GNSS survey practices and instrumentation
  • Experience with databases and spreadsheets
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • 4-year degree from a physical/ biological/environmental science, engineering program or related field
  • Aviation Background
  • Ground Survey Background
  • Current CPR and basic First Aid 

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

NV5 offers competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

#LI-Remote

Employment Type: OTHER

What NV5 employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US