2

Remote Pilot Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Remote Pilot Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$10.5K

$115.8K

$183.7K

How much do remote pilot operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote pilot operator in Indiana is $115,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $166,500.00 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 Indiana?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Remote Pilot Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,759 per year, or $55.7 per hour.

Program Director of VIA Journeys

Marion, IN • On-site, Remote


Indiana Wesleyan University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 625 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Program Director of VIA Journeys
Job no: 495190
Work type: Administrative (Full Time)
Location: Marion, IN, Hybrid (3-4 Office / 1-2 Remote)
Categories: Administrative/Professional
Job Title: Program Director of VIA Journeys
Reporting Relationship: Executive Director of Strategic Innovations
Unit: Wesley Seminary
Department: Wesley Seminary
Campus Location: NGM Building, Marion, IN
Summary of Position: The Program Director of VIA Journeys is responsible for launching, piloting, and operationalizing VIA Journeys as a flagship initiative within the Academic & Ministry Strategic Innovations (AMSI) unit.
This role exists to ensure that strategy becomes reality. The Program Director brings entrepreneurial leadership, technical fluency, and execution discipline to move VIA Journeys from concept to functioning pilots, platforms, and participant experiences.
The Program Director is empowered by the Executive Director of AMSI to focus fully on delivery, experimentation, and learning, while operating within clear strategic guardrails.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • VIA Journeys Launch & Execution
    • Lead the end-to-end launch of VIA Journeys, including pilots, operational workflows, and participant experiences
    • Translate strategic direction into executable plans, timelines, milestones, and deliverables
    • Ensure VIA Journeys progresses from idea to active implementation with momentum and clarity
  • Entrepreneurial & Pilot Leadership
    • Operate with an entrepreneurial mindset-testing assumptions, learning rapidly, and iterating responsibly
    • Design and manage pilots that validate participant value, operational feasibility, and program design
    • Build repeatable processes that support early scaling while preserving quality and trust
  • Technical Fluency & Platform Coordination
    • Serve as the primary program lead coordinating technical and platform-related work
    • Partner with internal and external technical teams to translate program needs into platform requirements
    • Support integration with Lantern and other Seminary systems, ensuring usability, reliability, and data integrity
  • Partner & Participant Engagement
    • Coordinate pilot partners, churches, advisors, and ministry leaders
    • Build feedback loops with pastors and participants to inform continuous improvement
    • Ensure participant experience reflects pastoral sensitivity and theological integrity
  • Learning, Metrics & Reporting
    • Define and track operational, learning, and pilot metrics
    • Provide clear updates, dashboards, and insights to the Executive Director and Seminary leadership
    • Ensure lessons learned inform future decisions and phases

Qualifications: According to Indiana Wesleyan University employment policy all employees must possess a strong Christian commitment and adhere to the standards outlined in the IWU Community Lifestyle Statement.
Education
  • Master's degree or other advanced degree strongly preferred

Experience
  • According to Indiana Wesleyan University's employment policy, all employees must possess a strong Christian commitment and adhere to the standards outlined in the IWU Community Lifestyle Statement
  • Ten or more (10+) years of demonstrated experience launching, scaling, and leading programs, products, platforms, or strategic initiatives from concept through execution
  • Experience managing and influencing diverse stakeholders, including approximately 30 external partners, while building strong, collaborative relationships
  • Experience working within ministry organizations, churches, or higher education environments is required; experience spanning both sectors is strongly preferred

Required Skills
  • Proven ability to operate effectively in ambiguity, build from zero to launch, and drive measurable outcomes
  • Exceptional project and program management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and complex cross-functional initiatives
  • Strong technical fluency, with the ability to work effectively alongside developers, digital platforms, data systems, and AI-enabled technologies
  • Familiarity with digital learning platforms, SaaS business models, AI integrations, or ecosystem-based initiatives is strongly preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate across executive leadership, external partners, and cross-functional teams to execute strategic priorities
  • Strong alignment with the organization's Christian mission, including agreement with the Statement of Faith and Community Life expectations
  • The ability to supervise any part-time or full-time personnel assigned to the VIA Journeys initiative

IWU Kingdom Diversity Statement
IWU, in covenant with God's reconciling work and in accordance with the Biblical principles of our historic Wesleyan tradition, commits to build a community that reflects Kingdom diversity. We will foster an intentional environment for living, teaching and learning, which exhibits honor, respect, and dignity. Acknowledging visible or invisible differences, our community authentically values each member's earthly and eternal worth. We refute ignorance and isolation and embrace deliberate and courageous engagement that exhibits Christ's commandment to love all humankind.
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER
As a religious educational institution operating under the auspices of The Wesleyan Church, Indiana Wesleyan University is permitted and reserves the right to prefer employees on the basis of religion (42 U.S.C., Sections 2000e-1 and 2000e-2).
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. Employees will be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.
Advertised: 12 Aug 2026 US Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 13 Sep 2026 US Eastern Daylight Time
Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App


What Indiana Wesleyan University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom