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Remote Drone Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

ZID Remote Pilot Operator

Indianapolis, IN · Remote

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the ...

SAIC

DSM Remote Pilot Operator

Des Moines, IA · Remote

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 ...

SAIC

ZMP Remote Pilot Operator

Farmington, MN · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Minneapolis ...

SAIC

EWR Remote Pilot Operator

Newark, NJ · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Part-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Newark ATCT ...

SAIC

PHL ATCT Remote Pilot Operator

Philadelphia, PA · Remote

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the ...

SAIC

DCA Remote Pilot Operator

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Washington ...

SAIC

MSY Remote Pilot Operator

New Orleans, LA · On-site +1

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Louis ...

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Remote Drone Operator information

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How much do remote drone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 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.

How much does Amazon pay drone pilots?

Amazon's drone delivery program employs remote drone operators who typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience and location. Compensation may also include benefits and opportunities for overtime, with some roles requiring certification in drone operation and adherence to safety regulations.

How much do remote drone operators make?

Remote drone operators typically earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the tasks. Salaries can range from around $30,000 to over $100,000 annually for full-time positions, especially in industries like surveying, filmmaking, or inspection services.

What is the 120m rule for drones?

The 120-meter rule for drones states that remote drone operators must keep their drones within visual line of sight and not fly higher than 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level unless they have special authorization. This regulation helps ensure safe operation and prevent collisions with manned aircraft. Adhering to altitude limits is a key part of drone safety and compliance for remote pilots.

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.

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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,930 per year, or $23 per hour.
ZID Remote Pilot Operator

ZID Remote Pilot Operator

SAIC

Indianapolis, IN • Remote

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 204 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2612916

Location: Indianapolis, IN, US

Date Posted: 2026-05-26

Category: Information Technology

Subcategory: Computer Operator

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

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

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Indianapolis ARTCC (ZID) in Indianapolis, IN, 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.

Qualifications

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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