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Remote Drone Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turner Mining Group

Entry Level Drone Operator Pilot

$20 - $21/hr

Drone Operator Pilots have a very heavy schedule. There is a great deal of nationwide travel ... Must have a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License. * Preference will be given to candidates ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Saint Louis, MO · Remote

... oversee commercial drone operations in accordance with applicable regulations and operating ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Orlando, FL · Remote

... oversee commercial drone operations in accordance with applicable regulations and operating ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

New Orleans, LA · Remote

... oversee commercial drone operations in accordance with applicable regulations and operating ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

New Orleans, LA · Remote

... oversee commercial drone operations in accordance with applicable regulations and operating ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Memphis, TN · Remote

... oversee commercial drone operations in accordance with applicable regulations and operating ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

San Francisco, CA · Remote

... oversee commercial drone operations in accordance with applicable regulations and operating ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Philadelphia, PA · Remote

... oversee commercial drone operations in accordance with applicable regulations and operating ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

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Remote Drone Operator information

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$10

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$37

How much do remote drone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote drone operator in the United States is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What disqualifies you from becoming a drone pilot?

To become a remote drone operator, disqualifications typically include having a felony conviction, failing a background check, or not meeting age requirements usually set at 16 or older. Additionally, candidates must pass a knowledge test and obtain a remote pilot certificate, and certain health issues or inability to pass background screening can also disqualify applicants.

Is there a demand for drone operators?

The demand for remote drone operators is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, filmmaking, and inspection services. As drone technology advances and regulations evolve, skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of flight safety are increasingly sought after.

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

To thrive as a Remote Drone Operator, you need strong piloting skills, spatial awareness, and typically a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA or relevant local authority. Familiarity with drone flight software, GPS navigation systems, and video or imaging tools is essential for safe and effective operation. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication help operators adapt to changing environments and collaborate with team members or clients. These competencies ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and high-quality data collection or imagery for diverse applications.

How much do Amazon drone operators make?

Amazon drone operators, often called delivery drone pilots or remote operators, typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience and location. Salaries can vary based on the employer, certifications, and whether the role is full-time or part-time, with some positions offering additional benefits for operating specialized equipment or working in remote environments.

What is a Remote Drone Operator?

A Remote Drone Operator is a professional who pilots unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, from a distance using remote control equipment. They are responsible for navigating the drone, capturing aerial images or video, gathering data, and ensuring the safe operation of the aircraft. Remote Drone Operators work in various industries such as agriculture, real estate, filmmaking, surveying, and emergency services. Their tasks often include pre-flight planning, equipment maintenance, and adhering to aviation regulations. Strong technical skills and knowledge of airspace laws are essential for this role.

How much do independent drone operators make?

Independent drone operators typically earn between $25 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks. Many charge project-based rates for services such as aerial photography, surveying, or inspections, with annual earnings varying widely based on workload and client base.

What are some common challenges faced by remote drone operators, and how can they be addressed?

Remote drone operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining reliable connectivity for real-time control, navigating complex airspace regulations, and adapting to varying weather conditions. To address these, operators should stay updated on local and federal drone laws, invest in reliable communication equipment, and receive proper training in troubleshooting and emergency procedures. Collaborating closely with team members such as data analysts and project managers also helps ensure smooth operations and quick problem-solving.

What is the difference between Remote Drone Operator vs Remote Camera Operator?

AspectRemote Drone OperatorRemote Camera Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 license, drone operation certificationsCamera operation certifications, media or broadcast licenses
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, aerial environments using dronesIndoor or outdoor, filming or broadcasting remotely
Industry UsageAerial photography, surveying, inspectionsFilm, television, live streaming
Common Search IntentRemote drone operation jobs, drone pilot rolesRemote camera work, filming jobs

Remote Drone Operators focus on flying drones for aerial tasks, requiring specific certifications like FAA Part 107. Remote Camera Operators handle filming or broadcasting remotely, often with media licenses. While both roles involve remote operation, they serve different industries and require distinct skills and certifications.

More about Remote Drone Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Drone Operator jobs? Cities with the most Remote Drone Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Operator jobs? The most popular types of Drone Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Drone Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Drone Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Remote Drone Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Drone Operator jobs are:
Remote Drone Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Drone Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,930 per year, or $23 per hour.
Entry Level Drone Operator Pilot

Entry Level Drone Operator Pilot

Turner Mining Group

Remote

$20 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Our client, Firmatek is seeking self-motivated, innovative people with a passion for drone flight to travel nationwide and manually fly a drone to inspect utility infrastructure. Firmatek utilizes a variety of platforms to capture high-resolution cameras to capture detailed visual data of the power lines and associated infrastructure. The ideal candidate will be willing to travel long distances from their base of operations, sometimes for weeks at a time, and able to work both independently with no direct supervision and on a team. Adaptability, attention to detail, and willingness to learn are essential to success in this position.
IMPORTANT: Drone Operator Pilots have a very heavy schedule. There is a great deal of nationwide travel associated with this job, often requiring extended periods away from home including weekends and/or holidays. Almost every week Pilots are scheduled for jobs more than a few hours from their home location. Many jobs are a day's drive away or greater at times. Additionally, storm and disaster response work can be scheduled at a moment's notice when requested.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform image data collection using high resolution cameras and thermal imagery using a combination of LiDAR, drone photogrammetry, and FLIR equipment.
  • Conduct pre-flight and post-flight operations, including but not limited to airspace coordination, equipment assembly and tear-down, and hazard mitigation.
  • Develop a flight plan that outlines the inspection route, waypoints, and areas of focus to ensure comprehensive coverage.
  • Employ thermal imaging capabilities to detect anomalies, hotspots, or potential issues that may not be visible to the naked eye.
  • Employ proper flight techniques, including smooth maneuvers, maintaining appropriate distances from power lines, and capturing images from multiple angles for accurate analysis.
  • Be prepared to troubleshoot technical challenges that may arise during the inspection, such as signal interference, battery life, or camera calibration.
  • Ensure data integrity by regularly checking for image quality, sensor accuracy, and proper data storage to minimize errors or inaccuracies.
  • Perform quality checks on collected data to ensure accuracy and that the client's needs will be met.
  • Serve as a point of contact with clients regarding project scope, scheduling needs, deliverables and follow-up.
  • Interact with members of the public to explain the nature of the work being conducted.
  • Manual flights for inspection of power lines and poles.
  • Strong ability to learn and master multiple software packages, data collection platforms, and associated workflows.
  • High attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Must have a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License.
  • Preference will be given to candidates with an applied knowledge of Utility infrastructure, GIS mapping, & proficiency in manual flight maneuvers in narrow right of ways.
  • Be responsible for the operation and maintenance of supporting equipment including a 4x4 truck, computer workstation, on-board inverters, and batteries.
  • Must be able to use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including hardhats, protective eyewear, boots, safety vests, and 2-way radios.
  • Perform physically demanding work involving frequent standing, sitting, kneeling, bending, stooping, climbing up ladders, walking on uneven surfaces, and lifting and carrying equipment up to 60 lbs.
  • Willingness to travel away from home for extended periods, many times longer than two weeks.
  • Exposure to extreme weather conditions.
  • Ability to drive for extended periods.
  • Working around industrial hazards

Qualifications and Skills
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License - Required
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $47,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Provided by Company:
  • Company Truck
  • Company Phone
  • Company Laptop
  • Company Drones
  • Hotels covered by company
  • Daily meal per-diem for days you wake up in a hotel

Work Location: On the road.

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