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Remote Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Science Applications International Corporation

Zan Remote Pilot Operator We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidate to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Anchorage ARTCC (ZAN) in Anchorage, AK ...

Science Applications International Corporation

$40K - $80K/yr

ZOA Remote Pilot Operator We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidate to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Oakland ARTCC (ZOA) in Fremont, CA ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Remote Pilot

Yuma, AZ · Remote

$91.10K - $125.30K/yr

Act as the remote pilot in command for various R&D aircraft platforms * Conduct preflight planning and inspections of the system * Support test planning and take part in test rehearsals * Post flight ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Remote Pilot

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$91.10K - $125.30K/yr

OverviewJoby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for an experienced remote pilot to operate research and development UAS platforms. Drawing on past experience operating medium to large UAS ...

Science Applications International Corporation

FAI Remote Pilot Operator We are looking for full time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Fairbanks ATCT / TRACON (FAI), located ...

PenBay Media LLC

Remote Pilot Operator

Nashua, NH · On-site +1

The Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) operates a combination of Cathode Ray Tube (CRT)/keyboard/Voice Communication System (VCS) to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC ...

Joby Aviation

$91.10K - $125.30K/yr

Act as the remote pilot in command for various R&D aircraft platforms * Conduct preflight planning and inspections of the system * Support test planning and take part in test rehearsals * Post flight ...

PenBay Media LLC

Remote Pilot Operator

Boston, MA · On-site +1

The Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) operates a combination of Cathode Ray Tube (CRT)/keyboard/Voice Communication System (VCS) to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC ...

PenBay Media LLC

Remote Pilot Operator

Syracuse, NY · On-site +1

The Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) operates a combination of Cathode Ray Tube (CRT)/keyboard/Voice Communication System (VCS) to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC ...

PenBay Media

Remote Pilot Operator

North Syracuse, NY · Remote

The Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) operates a combination of Cathode Ray Tube (CRT)/keyboard/Voice Communication System (VCS) to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Remote Pilot

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$91.10K - $125.30K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for an experienced remote pilot to operate research and development UAS platforms. Drawing on past experience operating medium to large UAS ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Remote Pilot

Yuma, AZ · Remote

$91.10K - $125.30K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for an experienced remote pilot to operate research and development UAS platforms. Drawing on past experience operating medium to large UAS ...

Joby Aviation

$111.90K - $191.20K/yr

Joby Aviation Remote Pilot Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for an experienced remote pilot to operate research and development UAS platforms and lead the daily flight operation onsite.

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Remote Pilot

Yuma, AZ · Remote

$91.10K - $125.30K/yr

Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for an experienced remote pilot to operate research and development UAS platforms. Drawing on past experience operating medium to large UAS, the role ...

SAIC

FAI Remote Pilot Operator

Fairbanks, AK · Remote

We are looking for Full time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Fairbanks ATCT / TRACON(FAI), located in Fairbanks, AK ...

SAIC

ZOA Remote Pilot Operator

Fremont, CA · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidate to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Oakland ARTCC (ZOA) in Fremont, CA, supporting air traffic ...

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Remote Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do remote pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Remote Pilot?

A remote pilot controls an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). As a remote pilot, your duties include flying and maintaining a drone and its systems, as well as remaining up-to-date on all FAA regulations regarding UAVs. To become a remote pilot, you must be at least 16 years old, be physically capable of handling a drone, and pass an FAA certification exam to demonstrate your knowledge and ability to manage the risks of flight. Career pilots must also be certified to handle unmanned aerial vehicles.

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

To thrive as a Remote Pilot, you need strong spatial awareness, technical understanding of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and typically a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA (Part 107 in the U.S.). Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and drone-specific hardware is often required. Excellent situational awareness, communication, and problem-solving skills set outstanding remote pilots apart. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant drone operations across diverse environments.

What are some common challenges Remote Pilots face when operating drones for commercial purposes?

Remote Pilots often encounter challenges such as maintaining strong situational awareness when flying drones beyond visual line of sight, navigating complex airspace regulations, and ensuring safe operations in changing weather conditions. Additionally, balancing real-time communication with team members, such as visual observers or project managers, is crucial for successful missions. Staying current with technology updates and regulatory changes is also essential for continued success in this fast-evolving field.

What are Remote Pilots?

Remote Pilots, often known as drone pilots, are professionals trained to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from a distance. They are responsible for controlling drones for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspections, and delivery services. Remote Pilots must understand flight regulations, safety procedures, and the technical aspects of their equipment. In many countries, they need to obtain specific certifications or licenses to operate drones commercially. This role is increasingly important in industries like agriculture, construction, and emergency response.

What is the difference between Remote Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectRemote PilotDrone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot CertificateOften holds similar certifications, but may not be required to operate commercially
Work EnvironmentTypically responsible for flight planning, safety, and compliance; may oversee multiple dronesPrimarily focuses on operating drones during missions or shoots
Industry UsageUsed across industries like surveying, agriculture, filmmaking, and inspectionCommonly used in filming, photography, and recreational activities

The main difference is that a Remote Pilot holds specific certifications and oversees drone operations, ensuring safety and compliance, while a Drone Operator primarily focuses on flying drones during specific tasks. Both roles are integral in industries utilizing drone technology, but the Remote Pilot often has broader responsibilities and regulatory knowledge.

More about Remote Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Remote Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Remote Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Pilot jobs are:
Remote Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
ZAN Remote Pilot Operator

ZAN Remote Pilot Operator

Science Applications International Corporation

Remote

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Zan Remote Pilot Operator

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidate to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Anchorage ARTCC (ZAN) in Anchorage, AK, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

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).

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

Apply