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Remote Contractor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

DSM Remote Pilot Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

We are looking for Casual, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller ... The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.

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Remote Contractor information

What is the difference between Remote Contractor vs Remote Freelancer?

AspectRemote ContractorRemote Freelancer
CredentialsOften requires specific certifications or industry experienceMay have varied credentials, often self-taught or with informal skills
Work EnvironmentTypically works for a single employer or client on a contractual basisWorks independently on multiple projects for different clients
Employer UsageCommonly hired through agencies or direct contracts for ongoing workHired directly by clients for short-term or one-off projects
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for long-term project work or contractual rolesCompared for flexible, project-based work opportunities

Remote Contractors usually work for a single employer under a formal contract, often requiring specific credentials. Freelancers work independently across multiple clients, offering flexibility but less long-term stability. Both roles are popular in remote work, but they differ in work structure and employer relationships.

How to make $70,000 a year from home?

A remote contractor can reach a $70,000 annual income by developing specialized skills such as programming, digital marketing, or graphic design, and building a strong portfolio. Consistently applying for high-paying freelance projects, maintaining a professional online presence, and managing multiple clients can help achieve this income level.

Can contractors work remotely?

Remote contractors can work from any location with internet access, depending on the employer’s policies and the nature of the work. Many remote contracting roles require skills in communication tools and project management software, and some may have specific location or time zone requirements.

What are remote contractors?

Remote contractors are independent professionals or freelancers who work for companies or clients from a location outside of the traditional office setting, often from their own home or a co-working space. They are typically hired for specific projects or tasks and are not considered employees, which means they manage their own taxes, benefits, and work schedule. Remote contractors use digital communication tools to collaborate with teams and deliver results across a variety of industries, such as IT, marketing, writing, and design. This arrangement provides flexibility for both the contractor and the hiring company.

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

To thrive as a Remote Contractor, strong time management, self-motivation, and relevant domain expertise are essential, often supported by proven experience or industry-specific credentials. Familiarity with collaboration tools like Slack, Zoom, and project management platforms such as Asana or Trello is typically required. Excellent written communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills help remote contractors stand out in virtual environments. These skills and qualities ensure productivity, reliability, and effective collaboration when working independently from various locations.

How does communication typically work for remote contractors collaborating with distributed teams?

Remote contractors usually communicate with their teams via digital platforms such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom. It is common to participate in regular virtual meetings, submit progress updates, and coordinate tasks through project management tools. Since contractors often work across time zones, clear and timely communication is essential to stay aligned with team goals and project deadlines. Being proactive in sharing your availability and progress helps ensure smooth collaboration and fosters trust within the team.

How to make $1000 a week remotely?

A remote contractor can earn $1000 a week by taking on multiple freelance or contract projects that pay well, such as in writing, programming, design, or digital marketing. Building a strong skill set, maintaining a professional portfolio, and using platforms like Upwork or Freelancer can help secure higher-paying assignments and increase weekly income.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Remote contractors in fields like software development, digital marketing, or consulting can earn $4,000 or more weekly without a degree, often based on experience, skills, and project scope. High-paying freelance roles typically require strong expertise, a solid portfolio, and proficiency with relevant tools or platforms. Such positions may involve project-based work, client management, and self-motivation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Contractor jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Contractor jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Contractor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Contractor jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Remote Contractor jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Remote Contractor job openings:
Remote Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Contractor job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.
DSM Remote Pilot Operator

DSM Remote Pilot Operator

Science Applications International Corporation

Des Moines, IA • Remote

Other

Posted 9 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 207 rated it services

Job description

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

We are looking for Casual, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Des Moines Intl ATCT/TRACON (DSM) in Des Moines, IA, 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.

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.

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

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