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Remote Pilot Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

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 Columbia, SC salary details

$40.4K

$106.9K

$164.1K

How much do remote pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote pilot in Columbia, SC is $106,899.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,700.00 and $126,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Remote Pilot jobs in Columbia, SC?

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

What job categories do people searching Remote Pilot jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Pilot jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Remote Pilot jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Remote Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Pilot job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 67% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,899 per year, or $51.4 per hour.

F16 Instructor Pilot - Ground Advisor

Top Aces Corp

Shaw Air Force Base, SC โ€ข Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description


The Ground Advisor Pilot (“Advisor”) provides F-16 subject matter expertise and instruction to foreign F-16 pilots, specifically on the operations and employment of the aircraft. The Advisor will provide instructional support through complex procedures, reinforce standardization, and ensure learning objectives are achieved. Furthermore, the Advisor’s role is critical to flight safety, pilot proficiency, and operational readiness. The information below is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Instruct foreign pilots in the safe and effective employment of the F-16.
  • Work with the host nation and other partners to ensure effective and efficient instructional content and adherence to the program schedule.
  • Provide updates to leadership on the progress of instruction.
  • Collect and disseminate lessons learned.
  • Deploy as required to support mission requirements.
  • Adhere to direction provided by the Chief Pilot and Pilot Site Lead.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALFICIATIONS 

  • Previously qualified F-16 Instructor Pilot, current within the past 5 Years.
  • 1,500 hours Pilot-In-Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DoD (or Allied) fighter aircraft.
  • Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines while fostering a positive attitude.
  • Must have strong problem-solving abilities.
  • Proficient in the English language with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Must be proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Must be able to travel within the US and internationally.
  • Must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of a Ground Advisor Pilot in daily work performance.
  • Must be able to work in various weather environments and conditions.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Previous F-16 FTU Instructor Pilot.
  • 1,000 hours PIC in F-16.
  • 500 hours Instructor Pilot in multiple blocks of the F-16.
  • Previous Instructor Pilot for foreign partner F-16 training.
  • Previous Foreign Military Sales (FMS) experience or Air Advisor training.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and/or WORK CONDITIONS

  • This is a rotational assignment requiring overseas deployment for periods from two to six months, during which the Advisor must reside and perform duties at the Company’s international location.
  • Must demonstrate the ability to operate effectively and self-sufficiently in a foreign environment, including communication, local navigation, and personal sustainability.

SPECIAL WORK CONDITIONS:

  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
  • Must be able obtain and maintain a US Secret or NATO Secret clearance. Ongoing eligibility is subject to periodic review. Strict adherence to all security protocols, procedures, and training is required.
  • Must possess a valid U.S. passport with no travel restrictions, limitations, or disqualifications, with a validity extending a minimum 6 months beyond the projected assignment completion date.
  • Must be able to secure all required work authorizations, including a valid work visa for the host country. Any prior immigration violations, criminal offenses, or adverse travel history that may prevent entry or work authorization will not be considered.
  • Adherence to the legal, regulatory, safety, and operational requirements of the host nation is mandatory throughout the duration of assignment.

Disclaimer: This role may be performed around loud noises and hazardous chemicals with exposure to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals. The extension of any offer and the commencement of employment for this position are contingent upon contract award.