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Remote Helicopter Pilot Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Memphis ARTCC (ZME), located in Memphis, TN, supporting air ...

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Memphis ARTCC (ZME), located in Memphis, TN, supporting air ...

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong understanding of airspace, safety, and operational procedures * Experience in BVLOS, logistics, delivery ...

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong understanding of airspace, safety, and operational procedures * Experience in BVLOS, logistics, delivery ...

Remote Helicopter Pilot information

See Tennessee salary details

$64.9K

$91K

$112.1K

How much do remote helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote helicopter pilot in Tennessee is $90,988.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,700.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical workday look like for a remote helicopter pilot?

A typical day for a Remote Helicopter Pilot involves pre-flight planning, conducting safety checks, operating the helicopter remotely for various missions such as surveying, inspections, or aerial photography, and maintaining regular communication with ground support teams. You may also be required to log flight data, monitor weather and airspace conditions, and troubleshoot technical issues with the control systems. Remote Helicopter Pilots often collaborate with engineers, project managers, or emergency response teams, depending on the mission. The role requires a balanced mix of technical focus and teamwork, with flexibility to adapt to changing mission objectives and environments.

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

To thrive as a Remote Helicopter Pilot, you need proficiency in aviation protocols, strong hand-eye coordination, and typically must hold a commercial pilot's license with helicopter rating. Familiarity with remote-control systems, flight simulation software, GPS navigation, and real-time communication technology is important for safe and effective operations. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and the ability to make quick decisions help you excel in a remote piloting environment. These skills are vital to ensure mission success, operational safety, and effective coordination with ground teams or clients.

What is a remote helicopter pilot?

A Remote Helicopter Pilot operates unmanned helicopters, often for tasks like aerial surveying, inspections, or deliveries. These pilots use remote controls or automated systems to guide aircraft safely and efficiently. Industries such as agriculture, infrastructure, and defense frequently employ remote helicopter pilots. Strong technical skills, knowledge of aviation regulations, and proficiency in remote piloting are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Helicopter Pilot jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Helicopter Pilot jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Remote Helicopter Pilot jobs in Tennessee?

For Remote Helicopter Pilot jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Helicopter Pilot jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Helicopter Pilot jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Remote Helicopter Pilot jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Remote Helicopter Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Helicopter Pilot job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,988 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

ZME Remote Pilot Operator

SAIC

Memphis, TN • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 223 rated it services


Job description

Job Description
Description
  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position.
We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Memphis ARTCC (ZME), located in Memphis, TN, 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

Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
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.

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