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Remote Pilot Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Senior Finance AI & Automation Developer

Ackworth, IA · On-site +1

$95K - $119K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Remote * Tuesday-Thursday: Onsite at our Reading, PA location Candidates outside the Reading, PA ... pilots. Responsibilities may also include other adhoc tasks such as Value Stream analysis and ...

Remote Pilot information

See Iowa salary details

$46.5K

$123K

$188.8K

How much do remote pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote pilot in Iowa is $122,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,900.00 and $145,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Pilot, you need strong spatial awareness, technical understanding of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and typically a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA (Part 107 in the U.S.). Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and drone-specific hardware is often required. Excellent situational awareness, communication, and problem-solving skills set outstanding remote pilots apart. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant drone operations across diverse environments.

What is the difference between Remote Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectRemote PilotDrone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot CertificateOften holds similar certifications, but may not be required to operate commercially
Work EnvironmentTypically responsible for flight planning, safety, and compliance; may oversee multiple dronesPrimarily focuses on operating drones during missions or shoots
Industry UsageUsed across industries like surveying, agriculture, filmmaking, and inspectionCommonly used in filming, photography, and recreational activities

The main difference is that a Remote Pilot holds specific certifications and oversees drone operations, ensuring safety and compliance, while a Drone Operator primarily focuses on flying drones during specific tasks. Both roles are integral in industries utilizing drone technology, but the Remote Pilot often has broader responsibilities and regulatory knowledge.

What are some common challenges remote pilots face when operating drones for commercial purposes?

Remote Pilots often encounter challenges such as maintaining strong situational awareness when flying drones beyond visual line of sight, navigating complex airspace regulations, and ensuring safe operations in changing weather conditions. Additionally, balancing real-time communication with team members, such as visual observers or project managers, is crucial for successful missions. Staying current with technology updates and regulatory changes is also essential for continued success in this fast-evolving field.

What is a remote pilot?

A remote pilot controls an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). As a remote pilot, your duties include flying and maintaining a drone and its systems, as well as remaining up-to-date on all FAA regulations regarding UAVs. To become a remote pilot, you must be at least 16 years old, be physically capable of handling a drone, and pass an FAA certification exam to demonstrate your knowledge and ability to manage the risks of flight. Career pilots must also be certified to handle unmanned aerial vehicles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Remote Pilot jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Remote Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Pilot job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,965 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Assistant Football Coach/Filmer

Iowa Western Community College

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site, Remote

Temporary

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Salary: $4,000.00 Annually
Location : Council Bluffs, IA
Job Type: Seasonal, Part-Time
Remote Employment: Remote Optional
Division: Athletics
Opening Date: 07/31/2026
Closing Date: 8/30/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
The filmer works closely with the head coach and athletic staff to capture practice sessions and games, maintain the necessary camera/drone equipment, and upload video files for team review
Job Duties
  • Filming & Operation: Assist the coaching staff by recording high-quality footage of athletic practices and games.

  • Drone Management: Fly, maintain, and safely operate drones during required sessions.

  • Equipment Upkeep: Ensure all video gear, batteries, and drones are charged, maintained, and ready for use.

  • File Management: Upload and organize practice and game videos into the team's digital network/system so coaches and athletes can review footage.

  • Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve any mechanical or software issues with cameras and drones in the field

Qualifications
  • Experience: Practical experience flying and operating drones.

  • Certifications: Drone pilot certification (e.g., FAA Part 107) is highly preferred.

  • Technical Skills: Knowledge of video capture and the ability to troubleshoot drone hardware/software issues.

  • Screening Requirements: Candidates must be able to pass a background check

Physical Demands
  • Heavy Lifting: Must be able to lift and carry heavy production equipment up to 50lbs

  • Mobility: Required to stand for long periods of time on the field or in the arena

  • Endurance: Must be able to stand, walk, and navigate stairs regularly to reach elevated filming and vantage points

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