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Remote Pilot Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mote, Inc.

Process Controls Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$100K - $140K/yr

Hybrid (Los Angeles-based; ~1 day/week remote) Travel: 0-25% per month About Mote Mote is ... Identify and pilot data-driven optimization, machine learning, and AI opportunities, such as fault ...

Oklo

Mechanical Design Engineer - Fuel Recycling

Santa Clara, CA · On-site +1

$89K - $121K/yr

... operated electrochemical molten salt process equipment used in nuclear fuel recycling. This work ... Incorporate design-for-automation principles to enable remote handling, inspection, and maintenance ...

Simbe Robotics

VP, Client Strategy

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$250K - $280K/yr

US-based, Remote/Hybrid | Travel: ~25-30% domestic The VP, Client Strategy will serve as a senior ... operating with the depth and presence of a consulting engagement partner * Convert existing pilots ...

Simbe Robotics

VP, Client Strategy

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$250K - $280K/yr

US-based, Remote/Hybrid | Travel: ~25-30% domestic The VP, Client Strategy will serve as a senior ... operating with the depth and presence of a consulting engagement partner * Convert existing pilots ...

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All JobsRemote Pilot Operator JobsRemote Pilot Operator Jobs in California

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 Jun 12, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Remote Pilot Operator position, and why are they important?

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.

What do remote pilot operators do?

Remote pilot operators are responsible for flying and managing unmanned aircraft systems (drones) for various purposes such as surveillance, mapping, or inspection. They operate drones using remote controls or software, ensure compliance with regulations, and often hold certifications like Part 107 in the United States. Their work typically involves pre-flight planning, monitoring during flights, and post-flight data analysis.

What jobs make 10000 a month without a degree?

Remote Pilot Operators can potentially earn $10,000 or more per month with experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as Part 107. High earnings are often associated with freelance or contract work in drone surveying, cinematography, or industrial inspections, which require technical expertise and equipment but not necessarily a college degree.

What is a Remote Pilot Operator job?

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.

How much does a SAIC remote pilot operator make?

A SAIC remote pilot operator's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and specific job responsibilities. These roles often require FAA Part 107 certification and involve operating unmanned aircraft systems in various industries such as defense, surveillance, or infrastructure inspection.

How much do remotely piloted aircraft pilots make?

Remotely piloted aircraft pilots, also known as drone pilots, typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and certification level. Commercial drone operators with specialized skills and FAA certifications tend to earn higher salaries, especially in sectors like aerial photography, surveying, and inspection services.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,058 per year, or $57.7 per hour.
Flight Research Senior Remote Pilot

Flight Research Senior Remote Pilot

Joby Aviation

Concord, CA • Remote

$121K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Joby Flight Research designs, develops, and flight-tests novel aircraft using a software-first autonomy approach. We build and deploy autonomy, perception, planning, and radar systems across conventional, electric, and hydrogen-electric aircraft in both CTOL and VTOL configurations.


Joby Aviation’s Flight Research team is looking for a remote pilot to operate our research and development aircraft with the Flight Test team. This role will primarily be a remote pilot of our Superpilot equipped Cessna Caravans. Drawing on past experience operating aircraft manned aircraft or Group 5 UAS in the national airspace, 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.


  • Serve as the remote pilot in command (RPIC) for various R&D aircraft platforms, both in solo operational roles and as part of a multi-person crew during test operations.
  • Execute comprehensive preflight planning and system inspections.
  • Contribute to test planning and participate in mission rehearsals.
  • Generate detailed post-flight reports for internal stakeholders and external partners.
  • Lead crew members through all phases of test preparation, execution, and post-test analysis.

  • Current Class 2 medical
  • STEM bachelor’s degree or a nontechnical bachelor’s with experience in engineering flight tests of air vehicles larger than 1000 lb
  • For candidates with more than 100 hr piloting Group 3+ UAS
    • Must hold a Part 61 pilot certificate (Private or better) Airplane SE or ME Land, and an instrument rating, and
    • Logged at least 300 hr of flight time, and an a combined UAS Pilot+ logged flight time greater than 500 hr
  • For candidates with less than 100 hr piloting Group 3+ UAS
    • Must hold a Part 61 Commercial pilot certificate and instrument rating, or ATP, and logged more than 700 hrs
  • Be able to articulate why you are uniquely qualified to make the transition large UAS with highly complex systems in a dynamic environment
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work extended hours and travel as required, which is expected between 10-25% of time
    Read and speak English proficiently

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.


  • Previous support of new aircraft or systems development, ideally in an operations capacity
  • Acceptance testing experience
  • Experience with flight test engineering
  • Development standard operating procedures
  • Experience with systems engineering
  • A&P or similar experience
  • Experience in 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 $121,500 - $206,100/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.


Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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