ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Remote Pilot Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Amivero

GenAI Developer

Ashburn, VA · On-site +1

Design, develop, and implement custom software solutions for a variety of AI/ML-related pilot ... Experience working in a geographically dispersed, remote team. * Understanding of Data Science ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPilot JobsRemote Pilot JobsRemote Pilot Jobs in Virginia

Remote Pilot information

See Virginia salary details

$49.1K

$129.8K

$199.3K

How much do remote pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote pilot in Virginia is $129,793.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,100.00 and $153,700.00 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.

How do you become a remote pilot?

To become a remote pilot, you need to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the appropriate aviation authority by passing a knowledge test covering regulations, airspace, and safety procedures. You must also be at least 16 years old, pass a background check, and operate drones within the guidelines set for commercial or recreational flying, often using specific remote control equipment and adhering to safety protocols.

What are Remote Pilots?

Remote Pilots, often known as drone pilots, are professionals trained to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from a distance. They are responsible for controlling drones for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspections, and delivery services. Remote Pilots must understand flight regulations, safety procedures, and the technical aspects of their equipment. In many countries, they need to obtain specific certifications or licenses to operate drones commercially. This role is increasingly important in industries like agriculture, construction, and emergency response.

How much is Walmart paying drone pilots?

Walmart drone pilots typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the delivery or surveillance tasks. The role often requires a commercial drone license and familiarity with operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in a retail or logistics environment.

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.

How much do remotely piloted aircraft pilots make?

Remotely piloted aircraft pilots, or drone pilots, typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and certification level. Experienced pilots working in sectors like film, agriculture, or security may earn higher salaries, especially with specialized skills and FAA certifications.

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 does a remote pilot do?

A remote pilot operates unmanned aircraft systems (drones) for various purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, or inspection. They are responsible for controlling the drone, following safety regulations, and ensuring proper operation, often requiring certification and knowledge of airspace rules.
More about Remote Pilot jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Remote Pilot jobs in Virginia? For Remote Pilot jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Pilot jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Pilot jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Remote Pilot jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Remote Pilot job openings:
Remote Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Pilot job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,793 per year, or $62.4 per hour.
Call for Pro Bono AI Strategy Experts

Call for Pro Bono AI Strategy Experts

TechnoServe

Arlington, VA • On-site, Remote

$56K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

TechnoServe Fellow - Amplify AI Strategy
Location: Remote, with possibility of 2-3 week travel to one of our TechnoServe country offices in Africa
Timing: July 2026 for 3-6 months, 10-20 hours per week (unpaid)
Languages: English (written and spoken)
Fellowship: This is a fellowship and is pro bono. Travel-related expenses will be covered such as flights, housing, and per diem.
About TechnoServe
At TechnoServe, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to build a better life. For over 50 years, we have given smallholder farmers and entrepreneurs the skills, connections, and confidence to lift themselves out of poverty. We leverage the power of markets and the private sector to create sustainable economic growth to benefit people and the planet. Our unique mix of business solutions, deep knowledge of local contexts, and data-driven insights is helping to fight poverty across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Project and Purpose
TechnoServe is seeking a Fellow to join our Amplify Initiative. This is a high-impact pro bono opportunity for an innovative thinker to dedicate 10-20 hours per week to help us redefine the scale of international development through Artificial Intelligence.
We are looking for visionaries to work with TechnoServe's Senior Executive Leadership, Global Operational Teams, and Technical Experts to design fundamental shifts in how we deliver value to the world's most hardworking entrepreneurs and farmers.
Fellow's Role
As a Fellow, you will work with TechnoServe staff to spearhead a breakthrough AI initiative focused on Field Impact Innovation, designing AI systems that help dramatically scale our work with farmers and small business owners.
Additional details on the specific scope of work will be shared once the full team is in place.
Skills and Requirements
  • AI Fluency: You are a regular user of AI tools and understand the intersection of technical possibility and operational reality.
  • Operational Architect: You can navigate diverse stakeholder environments and turn a bold concept into a functional pilot.
  • Commitment: You can dedicate 10-20 hours per week for 3-6 months starting July 2026, to a high-priority, pro bono (i.e. unpaid) global initiative.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year program

Help us build the future of impact. Help us Amplify.
IMPORTANT NOTE: To apply, you will complete the general TechnoServe Fellows Program application. If we determine that your experience and availability match this particular project, we will alert you of that. If not, you may be placed in the general pool of Fellow candidates and considered for other projects. Please see below for details on the general TechnoServe Fellows Program application.
TechnoServe Fellows Program
The TechnoServe Fellows Program is a highly competitive fellowship where business professionals have the unique opportunity to contribute their skills to help change the lives of those living in poverty. They experience the field of international development firsthand while building new skills and challenging themselves in a cross-cultural and entrepreneurial environment.
TechnoServe Fellows form a global alumni community representing top-tier consulting, industry, and nonprofit organizations and graduate schools.
Review our detailed sample project descriptions to understand the skills and capabilities often required for other types of TechnoServe fellowship projects. View our Fellows FAQ page for more information.
This application is designed to give you the opportunity to tell us about your experience, skills, interests, and motivation to become a Fellow. We will use the information you provide to determine if a potential project match exists. Please complete the questions as accurately as possible to give yourself the best chance for consideration.
To be eligible for the Fellows Program, you must:
  • Have successfully completed your undergraduate studies at an accredited four-year program.
  • Have at least two to three years of professional, full-time work experience.
  • Be available to volunteer for a minimum of ten weeks on the ground.

When completing the application, please keep in mind:
  • You cannot change your responses once your application has been submitted. Please send an email to fellows@tns.org if your dates of availability or other required information changes.
  • You must attach a PDF document containing the responses to two essay questions before submitting your application. The essay questions will be provided within the application.

Please send questions about the Fellows Program or the application form to fellows@tns.org.

Apply