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Remote Aircraft Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Overview NV5 is seeking an Assistant Chief Pilot to support the Director of Flight Operations by ... Pressurized turbine aircraft experience. * Remote flying experience in Alaska or similar. * Master ...

... remote and field environments * Troubleshoot aircraft systems and ground control equipment to ... Minimum of 1 year of flight instruction, instructor pilot, or customer-facing technical training ...

$131K - $171K/yr

Maintains requirements and performs function of technical inspector for aircraft assigned. Ensures ... for landing at remote locations. Locations may include a combination of confined areas with ...

Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate in good standing.500+ UAV flight hours, including heavy-lift aircraft and LiDAR payload operations. * Proven UAV LiDAR and photogrammetry experience on ...

$131K - $171K/yr

Flights are made to determine the airworthiness of the aircraft and to ensure all systems are ... for landing at remote locations. Locations may include a combination of confined areas with ...

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How much do remote aircraft pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote aircraft pilot in the United States is $87,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Remote Aircraft Pilots?

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.

How much do remotely piloted aircraft pilots make?

Remotely piloted aircraft pilots, also known as drone pilots, typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and certification level. Commercial drone pilots with specialized skills and FAA certifications tend to earn higher salaries, especially in sectors like aerial photography, surveying, and inspection services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Aircraft Pilot, and why are they important?

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.

What can you do as a remote pilot?

A remote aircraft pilot operates drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspection, or delivery. They are responsible for planning flights, ensuring compliance with regulations, and maintaining the equipment, often using remote controls and software. Certification from relevant authorities is typically required, and pilots must adhere to safety and privacy standards.

What are some 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 much is Walmart paying drone pilots?

Walmart has hired drone pilots for delivery and inventory tasks, with pay rates typically ranging from $15 to $25 per hour depending on experience and location. Compensation may also include benefits and opportunities for overtime, and pilots often need FAA Part 107 certification to operate commercial drones legally.

Are remote pilots in demand?

Remote aircraft pilots are experiencing increasing demand due to the growth of drone applications in industries such as agriculture, surveying, and logistics. The need for certified pilots skilled in operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and related technology is expected to continue rising as businesses adopt remote aerial solutions.

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.

More about Remote Aircraft Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Aircraft Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Remote Aircraft Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Remote Aircraft Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Aircraft Pilot jobs include:
Assistant Chief Pilot

Assistant Chief Pilot

NV5

Sheboygan Falls, WI • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
NV5 is seeking an Assistant Chief Pilot to support the Director of Flight Operations by reinforcing safe and standardized flight operations, supervising assigned direct reports, maintaining training compliance, and actively engaging in flight line operations. The position plays a key role in ensuring adherence to company policies, operational standards, and SMS requirements.
Work Environment:
  • Location: Remote within U.S.
  • Travel up to 75% of the time

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 a leader in our industry and expand our individual and collective potential.
Responsibilities
Flight Operations - 30%
  • Mentor pilots and provide instruction in support of the NV5 Flight Standards and Training Program.
  • Assist in development of the Flight Department budget, including creation and submission of Asset Requests and Purchase Orders.
  • Develop and maintain pilot processes and procedures, including the General Operations Manual (GOM), checklists, Safety Manual, and Safety Program event compliance.
  • Manage FAA record compliance.
  • Assist in developing and upholding the NV5 Geospatial Safety Policy.
  • Maintain qualifications and currency requirements for pilots, crew members, maintenance, and other mission-related personnel using company-provided compliance software.
  • Assist in the investigation of all incidents and accidents involving NV5 Geospatial aviation personnel, including development of conclusions and recommendations for preventive or disciplinary actions.
  • When investigations are conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), request that a flight department representative serve as a party to the investigation and provide assistance to the NTSB as needed.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with the local Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).
  • Investigate deviations from NV5 Geospatial policies and report findings to the Safety Manager and Director of Flight Operations.
  • Ensure Quality Assurance through scheduling and conducting required internal audits and inspections.

Flight Line Operations - 60%
  • Perform preflight and post-flight inspections of aircraft, including interior and exterior cleaning after each flight.
  • Conduct mission planning, including aircraft performance calculations, weather interpretation, ground support coordination, air traffic control coordination, and client coordination.
  • Work effectively with the Sensor Operator to safely and efficiently complete missions.
  • Supervise vendor compliance, including fueling services and outsourced maintenance.
  • Manage movement of aircraft in and out of hangars.
  • Report aircraft and project status.
  • Communicate with aircraft mechanics to track and schedule all maintenance for NV5 Geospatial aircraft, ensuring airworthiness and the highest level of safety.
  • Verify FAA record compliance.
  • Track airman qualifications, including currency and medical certifications, to ensure personnel are qualified for assigned missions.
  • Maintain current charts, publications, manuals, and avionics database downloads.
  • Understand and comply with all ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements applicable to the business.

Personnel Management - 10%
  • Establish minimum employment qualifications, hiring procedures, salary structure, performance appraisal processes, grade structure, and dismissal procedures in coordination with company personnel and salary administration officers.
  • Maintain high morale through awareness of company and department policies, employee development programs, and regular department meetings to communicate ideas, goals, and objectives.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • FAA Multi-engine Commercial pilot license.
  • 1+ years of experience as a pilot-in-command of an aircraft operated under CFR 14 Part 91, 135 or 121
  • Associate or bachelor's degree.
  • 1,000 hours total time.
  • 100 hours turbine.
  • 250 hours multi engine.
  • FAA Second Class Medical Certificate

Preferred Qualifications:
  • FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate
  • Certified Flight Instructor. CFI, CFII, and MEI.
  • Live within a 90-mile radius of the following bases of operations: Portland, Corvallis Anchorage, Lexington, or Sheboygan
  • Aerial survey experience.
  • Experience in King Air 200, Cessna Conquest II, or Cessna Caravan
  • Pressurized turbine aircraft experience.
  • Remote flying experience in Alaska or similar.
  • Master's degree (MBA or Aviation Management)

Required Skills:
  • Strong communications skills with the ability to work effectively with all associates and senior management
  • Ability to convey a positive and professional image to internal and external contacts
  • Ability to work under pressure while maintaining a positive and helpful attitude
  • Well organized with the ability to handle multiple and competing priorities

Physical Requirements:
  • Willing to travel 16 days on 12 Off on a consistent basis
  • Drive aircraft tug.
  • Some early mornings and late evenings.
  • Outside flight operations, exposure to the cold and heat, elements of the seasons.
  • Travel may be up to 75%

NV5 offers a 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.
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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