ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Remote Pilot Operator Jobs in Huntsville, AL (NOW HIRING)

All JobsPilot Operator JobsRemote Pilot Operator JobsRemote Pilot Operator Jobs in Huntsville, AL

Remote Pilot Operator information

See Huntsville, AL salary details

$10.9K

$120.6K

$191.4K

How much do remote pilot operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote pilot operator in Huntsville, AL is $120,615.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $173,500.00 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 Huntsville, AL?

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

What job categories do people searching Remote Pilot Operator jobs in Huntsville, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Pilot Operator jobs in Huntsville, AL are:

What cities near Huntsville, AL are hiring for Remote Pilot Operator jobs?

Cities near Huntsville, AL with the most Remote Pilot Operator job openings:

Remote Pilot Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Pilot Operator job openings in Huntsville, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,615 per year, or $58 per hour.

UAS Operator - Flight Operations Team

Blackrock Strategy, Inc.

Huntsville, AL • Remote

$52K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

UAS Operator (Group 1–3 | Field Operations)

Blackrock Strategy, Inc. | Huntsville, AL • Indianapolis Metro • Clarksville/Fort Campbell Area

Travel: Approximately 75% travel is expected in support of government test events, operational missions, field exercises, demonstrations, and deployment activities.

Clearance: Active Secret Security Clearance Required (Top Secret eligibility preferred)


About Blackrock Strategy

Blackrock Strategy, Inc. (BrS) provides engineering, operational, and technical services supporting the Department of War, Intelligence Community, and commercial customers. Our teams support test and evaluation, experimentation, systems integration, operational planning, and technology transition across a broad range of national security programs.


Position Overview

Blackrock Strategy is seeking an experienced UAS Operator to support operational testing, field operations, deployment activities, and evaluation of Group 1–3 unmanned aircraft systems across mission-focused environments.

Working alongside engineers, operators, and government stakeholders, this position supports operational test events, demonstrations, training activities, and field deployments involving emerging unmanned aircraft technologies.

The ideal candidate is adaptable, technically proficient, operationally minded, and comfortable operating in dynamic field environments where sound judgment, communication, and troubleshooting are critical to mission success.

Candidates with military or commercial UAS experience and the ability to rapidly learn new platforms, software, and mission requirements are encouraged to apply.


Key Responsibilities
  • Operate Group 1–3 unmanned aircraft systems supporting testing, training, and operational missions.
  • Execute missions using Mission Planner, including waypoint management, diagnostics, telemetry monitoring, and mission execution.
  • Configure and support ArduPilot-based systems, including calibration, operational setup, and system verification.
  • Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections, checklists, and operational documentation.
  • Troubleshoot aircraft systems, RF communications, payloads, ground control stations, and supporting equipment.
  • Coordinate with engineers, Flight Team leadership, range personnel, and government stakeholders during testing activities.
  • Support operational testing, deployment activities, demonstrations, and evaluation of emerging technologies.
  • Assist with operational reporting, mission documentation, observations, and after-action reporting.
  • Support field operations across multiple operational environments throughout the United States and, when required, overseas.


Required Qualifications
  • U.S. Citizenship required
  • Active DoD Secret clearance or higher (TS eligible preferred)
  • Minimum 2 years of operational UAS experience (military or commercial)
  • Experience operating Group 1–3 UAS platforms
  • Strong troubleshooting, communication, and operational coordination skills
  • Ability to operate effectively in dynamic field environments
  • Willingness and ability to support travel requirements associated with operational testing, deployment support, and mission activities
  • Ability to support field operations, testing events, and deployment activities


Preferred Qualifications
  • Military UAS background (15W, 7314, or similar MOS/AFSC)
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
  • Experience with ArduPilot ecosystems, Mission Planner, or similar flight control platforms
  • Experience supporting DoD testing, R&D, or operational evaluations
  • Experience with RF systems, EO/IR payloads, or restricted airspace operations
  • Familiarity with ground control systems and mobile integration environments
  • Experience supporting operational deployments or field-testing activities


Work Environment
  • Field-based operational role supporting testing and deployment activities
  • Frequent CONUS travel with periodic OCONUS support activities
  • Operations conducted across field, range, test, and mission environments
  • Regular coordination with engineers, operational teams, and government stakeholders
  • Dynamic operational environment supporting testing, evaluation, and mission execution activities
  • Travel requirements may vary based on operational activities and deployment schedules, with periods of increased travel support up to approximately 75% as mission needs evolve.


Benefits
  • Competitive compensation
  • 401(k) with company matching
  • Employer-paid employee medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Employer-paid life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) option with employer contributions
  • Paid time off and parental leave
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Referral bonus program


Equal Opportunity Employer

Blackrock Strategy, Inc. is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a workplace free from discrimination. We recruit, hire, and advance qualified individuals based on merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

We also take affirmative action to employ and advance veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Human Resources department at 256-429-3608.