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Remote Pilot Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

ZME Remote Pilot Operator

Memphis, TN · Remote

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller ... Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance ...

SAIC

JFK Remote Pilot Operator

Jamaica, NY · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller ... Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance ...

SAIC

ZMA Remote Pilot Operator

Miami, FL · Remote

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller ... Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance ...

SAIC

FAI Remote Pilot Operator

Fairbanks, AK · Remote

We are looking for Full time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller ... Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance ...

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All JobsRemote Pilot Engineer Jobs

Remote Pilot Engineer information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do remote pilot engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote pilot engineer 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Pilot Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Remote Pilot Engineer, you need expertise in aeronautics, remote piloting, and engineering principles, usually supported by a relevant degree and remote pilot certification. Familiarity with UAV control systems, flight planning software, and telemetry tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively are vital soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure safe, reliable UAV operations and successful mission outcomes in dynamic and regulated environments.

How do Remote Pilot Engineers typically collaborate with other departments to ensure successful drone operations?

Remote Pilot Engineers frequently work alongside teams such as software development, data analysis, and field operations to coordinate safe and efficient drone missions. They are often responsible for communicating technical requirements, troubleshooting issues in real-time, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. Close collaboration is crucial for mission planning, integrating new technologies, and responding to evolving project needs. This teamwork fosters a dynamic environment where engineers can both deepen their technical expertise and develop valuable cross-functional skills.

What is a Remote Pilot Engineer?

A Remote Pilot Engineer is a professional responsible for operating, maintaining, and sometimes designing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. They ensure safe and efficient flight operations, handle mission planning, and may analyze data collected by the UAVs. Remote Pilot Engineers often work in industries such as agriculture, surveying, construction, and defense, where drones are used for tasks like aerial imaging, mapping, or inspections. They must be familiar with aviation regulations, safety protocols, and the technical aspects of drone systems.

What is the difference between Remote Pilot Engineer vs Drone Operator?

AspectRemote Pilot EngineerDrone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107, Remote Pilot CertificateFAA Part 107, Remote Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentDesign, test, and oversee drone systems; often in engineering settingsOperate drones in the field for filming, inspections, or surveys
Industry UsageEngineering, aerospace, research, and developmentMedia, construction, agriculture, inspection services

Remote Pilot Engineers focus on designing and testing drone systems, requiring technical expertise and engineering skills. Drone Operators primarily handle the practical operation of drones in various industries. While both roles require FAA certification, their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

More about Remote Pilot Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Pilot Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Remote Pilot Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Pilot Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Pilot Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Pilot Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Remote Pilot Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Pilot Engineer jobs are:
Remote Pilot Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Pilot Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Flight Research Senior Remote Pilot

Flight Research Senior Remote Pilot

Joby Aviation

Yuma, AZ • Remote

$111K - $191K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.


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. Drawing on past experience operating medium to large UAS, the role will fulfill pilot command duties in support of flight test operations in the National Airspace System. Additionally, the applicant will be responsible for the continued development and implementation of standard operating procedures to support the evolving project. Joining a small, fast moving team this position will support additional responsibilities and tasks such as hands on work with the aircraft and ground support equipment, upholding strong safety culture, and support pre and post test activities with engineers.


  • Act as the senior 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 reports, internal and external
  • Lead other crewmembers in preparation, execution, and post test activities

  • Part 61 Private Pilot certificate with Instrument rating
  • Part 107 Remote Pilot certificate
  • Current Class 3 medical
  • Experience operating Group 3 + UAS
  • Experience with manual (non-GPS) and/or augmented flight modes using a traditional RC controller interface for conventional takeoff and landing aircraft
  • Fully automated remote flight
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience and training
  • At least 7 years of relevant experience
  • Significant UAS experience. Depending on platforms, >300 hrs >200 sorties
  • Demonstrated leadership skills
  • Development and administration of policy and procedures
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work extended hours and travel as required
  • Read and speak English proficiently

  • Part 61 Commercial pilot certificate
  • Support of new aircraft or systems development
  • Acceptance testing experience
  • Flight test engineering
  • UAS operations within the National Airspace System beyond Part 107
  • Standard operating procedures development
  • Basic CAD and manufacturing experience
  • Systems engineering
  • A&P or similar experience
  • Aircraft, ground station, and/or subsystem design and build

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $111,900 - $191,200/yr.

. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.


Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

This position must meet US export control compliance requirements, therefore a candidate must qualify as a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15. “US Person” includes US Citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees. 

Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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