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Remote Pilot Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

San Diego, CA · Remote

... and operating procedures * Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight activities * Assess ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

... and operating procedures * Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight activities * Assess ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

San Diego, CA · Remote

... and operating procedures * Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight activities * Assess ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

San Francisco, CA · Remote

... and operating procedures * Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight activities * Assess ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

San Francisco, CA · Remote

... and operating procedures * Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight activities * Assess ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

TSMG

Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

... and operating procedures * Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight activities * Assess ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong ...

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Remote Pilot Operator information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$120.1K

$190.5K

How much do remote pilot operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote pilot operator in California is $120,058.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $172,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote pilot operator?

A Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) assists air traffic controllers by simulating real-world flight scenarios in training environments. They operate radar and communication tools to mimic aircraft movements, providing realistic practice for trainees. RPOs play a crucial role in helping controllers develop decision-making and communication skills. This position typically requires familiarity with aviation systems and strong attention to detail. It is commonly found in FAA training facilities and aviation training programs.

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

As a Remote Pilot Operator, your day usually involves simulating aircraft movements to support air traffic controller training or operational scenarios. You’ll use specialized radar and communication systems to mimic real pilot responses and adjust flight paths based on evolving instructions. Collaboration with instructors, other simulation operators, and trainees is an essential part of the workflow, allowing you to help create realistic and challenging scenarios. The role often requires periods of focused attention, adaptability to changing situations, and clear communication within a team-focused environment.

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

To thrive as a Remote Pilot Operator, you need strong situational awareness, attention to detail, and a background in aviation or air traffic operations, often supported by specialized training. Familiarity with radar simulation systems, voice communications equipment, and air traffic control simulation tools is typically required, and FAA certifications may be preferred. Excellent communication, teamwork, and quick decision-making are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure safety, accuracy, and effective simulation during high-stakes training and operational exercises.

Are remote pilot operators paid well?

Remote pilot operators, who operate unmanned aerial vehicles remotely, typically earn salaries that vary based on experience, certifications, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000 annually, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn over $100,000 per year. Compensation often depends on the complexity of the drone operations and the employer’s industry sector.

How much do remote pilot operators make?

Remote pilot operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry they work in. Many roles require FAA Part 107 certification and involve operating drones for surveying, filming, or inspection tasks, often on a freelance or contract basis.

What can I do with a remote pilot license?

A remote pilot license allows you to operate unmanned aircraft systems (drones) commercially, such as for aerial photography, surveying, inspection, or delivery services. It certifies you to fly drones within legal guidelines and often requires knowledge of airspace rules and safety procedures.

What do remote pilot operators do?

Remote pilot operators are responsible for flying and managing unmanned aircraft systems (drones) for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, or inspection. They operate drones using remote controls or software, ensure compliance with regulations, and often hold certifications like Part 107. Their work involves planning flight paths, monitoring drone performance, and maintaining safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Pilot Operator jobs in California?

For Remote Pilot Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Pilot Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Pilot Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Remote Pilot Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Remote Pilot Operator job openings:

Remote Pilot Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Pilot Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,058 per year, or $57.7 per hour.

ZOA Remote Pilot Operator

Science Applications International Corporation

Fremont, CA • Remote

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services

Job description

  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position.

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 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:

  • 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

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