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Remote Pilot Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

PHL ATCT Remote Pilot Operator

Philadelphia, PA · On-site +1

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 ...

Aerotek

Drone Pilot

Austin, TX · Remote

The position combines hands-on remote piloting, aviation safety practices, and technical problem-solving while working closely with cross-functional engineering and operations teams. The role ...

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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 Jul 17, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
FAA Academy - Remote Pilot Operator

FAA Academy - Remote Pilot Operator

Science Applications International Corporation

Oklahoma City, OK • Remote

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 210 rated it services

Job description

  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or 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 FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, OK, 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. 

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.

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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