2

Remote Drone Pilot Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 Potomac ...

New

Remote Drone Pilot information

See Virginia salary details

$49.1K

$129.8K

$199.3K

How much do remote drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote drone pilot in Virginia is $129,793.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,100.00 and $153,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote drone pilot?

A Remote Drone Pilot operates drones to capture aerial images, videos, or data for various industries, such as filmmaking, agriculture, construction, and inspections. They follow flight plans, adhere to safety regulations, and may analyze collected data. Some pilots work freelance, while others are employed by companies needing aerial surveillance or imagery. Certification and licensing requirements vary by country.

What does a remote drone pilot do?

A typical day as a Remote Drone Pilot involves preparing and checking drone equipment, reviewing flight plans and weather conditions, conducting missions to gather aerial footage or data, and performing post-flight checks and data processing. You'll often work independently but may collaborate with teams such as surveyors, photographers, or project managers to meet specific client objectives. Communication with clients to understand their requirements and provide updates is an important aspect of the role. Time management and adaptability are key, as project needs and flight schedules can change on short notice. Depending on the employer, you may also contribute to equipment maintenance, regulatory compliance documentation, or training new pilots.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote drone pilot?

To thrive as a Remote Drone Pilot, you need strong piloting skills, a solid understanding of aviation regulations, and typically a Part 107 (or relevant) drone operator certification. Familiarity with drone flight software, GPS systems, mapping applications, and camera equipment is essential. Attention to detail, excellent problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help a pilot effectively manage operations and coordinate with team members or clients remotely. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and efficient aerial data collection or imagery for commercial projects.

Is there a high demand for remote drone pilots?

Remote drone pilots are in increasing demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, and media, driven by the need for aerial data collection and inspections. The job often requires certifications and proficiency with drone operation software, and demand is expected to grow as drone technology becomes more integrated into various sectors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Pilot jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Drone Pilot jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Remote Drone Pilot jobs in Virginia?

For Remote Drone Pilot jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Drone Pilot jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Drone Pilot jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Remote Drone Pilot jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Remote Drone Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Drone Pilot job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,793 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

PCT Remote Pilot Operator

SAIC

Warrenton, VA • Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Operate a simulated radar display and voice communication system to mimic pilot actions and communications during training exercises.

  • Input proper entries into the automated system based on voice commands from students and respond via voice communication system using proper phraseology.

  • Complete certifications including classroom tests on airspace and procedures, and perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions.


SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 226 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2616327

Location: Warrenton, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-08-31

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 / 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 Potomac TRACON (PCT) in Warrenton, VA, 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:

  • 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
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

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

Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom