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Remote Pilot Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Remote - Eastern United States * Travel: Approximately 30-40% throughout the territory Territory ... Support pilot programs, field evaluations, and proof-of-concept deployments. * Work collaboratively ...

MuleSoft Developer

Adelphi, MD · Remote

$51.50 - $68.25/hr

Adelphi, MD - Oniste/ Hybrid /Remote Duration: 6+ months Local candidates preferred Need LinkedIn profile Must Have: MuleSoft- 5-8 years of Experience, DevAgent, Co-pilot Description: Client requires ...

Lead technical demonstrations and pilot programs, proving the ROI of "near-space" solutions ... You have experience in Commercial Imagery/Remote Sensing . If you've sold or integrated SAR, EO/IR ...

Senior .NET Developer

Washington, DC · Remote

$62.25 - $79.25/hr

Remote - candidates must live within the United States Description: Seeking a Senior Developer to ... Experience working with GitHub Co-pilot preferred * Strong problem-solving, analytical, and ...

... remote and high-dependency aviation environments. These efforts focus on delivering mission-critical, future-ready solutions that provide safety-critical flight services to the pilot community. As a ...

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Remote Pilot information

See Reston, VA salary details

$51.5K

$136.2K

$209.1K

How much do remote pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote pilot in Reston, VA is $136,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $161,300.00 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 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.

What can you do as a remote pilot?

A remote pilot operates unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones, often for purposes such as aerial photography, surveying, inspection, or delivery. They are responsible for controlling the drone, following safety regulations, and ensuring proper operation, often requiring certification and knowledge of airspace rules.

How much is Walmart paying drone pilots?

Walmart has hired drone pilots for delivery and inventory tasks, with reported pay rates typically ranging from $15 to $25 per hour. Compensation can vary based on experience, location, and the specific responsibilities of the role, often requiring FAA Part 107 certification and knowledge of drone operation.

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.

Are remote pilots in demand?

Remote pilots, also known as drone operators, are in increasing demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, photography, and inspection services. The growth of drone technology and the need for certified pilots with FAA Part 107 certification contribute to job opportunities in this 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. Salaries can vary based on whether they work for government agencies, private companies, or as freelancers, and often require specialized training and FAA certification.

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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Remote Pilot jobs in Reston, VA? For Remote Pilot jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Remote Pilot jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Remote Pilot job openings:
Government Relations Director

Government Relations Director

GT Independence

Washington, DC • Remote

$160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


GT Independence rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 228 rated social care providers


Job description

Location: Remote (with travel as needed). Our Head Quarters is in Sturgis, MI.
Department: Government Affairs / Public Policy
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer or Chief Operating Officer

About GT Independence:


GT Independence is a national, family founded Financial Management Services (FMS) organization supporting over 55,000+ people across 17–18 states and D.C. in self directing their long term services and supports. GT helps people with disabilities and long term care needs hire caregivers they choose while managing payroll, taxes, billing, and administrative support so individuals can live independently in their own homes and communities.
Built by a family, for families, GT Independence’s mission is to help people live a life of their choosing—regardless of age or ability—guided by core values such as self determination, integrity, professionalism, community, and respect.
As GT expands and strengthens its national presence, the Government Relations Director will play a central role in shaping state and federal policy environments that advance self determination and protect the future of self directed care programs nationwide.

Position Summary:


The Government Relations Director is responsible for developing and leading GT Independence’s government affairs strategy across the United States. This role strengthens relationships with policymakers, state agencies, Medicaid leaders, legislative staff, and advocacy coalitions to support the growth and sustainability of self directed long term care programs.
This is a highly strategic role requiring deep knowledge of public policy, Medicaid HCBS programs, long term services and supports (LTSS), government contracting, and regulatory environments affecting self direction and financial management services (FMS). The Director will proactively shape policies, monitor emerging legislation, influence regulatory outcomes, and ensure GT’s mission and business model are well understood by government partners.

Key Responsibilities:


Policy Strategy & Legislative Affairs

Develop and execute a comprehensive government relations strategy aligned with GT Independence’s mission and national growth plans.
• Monitor, track, and analyze legislation and regulatory activity related to Medicaid, HCBS, LTSS, workforce issues, and self-direction programs.
• Draft policy briefs, position papers, testimony, comment letters, and advocacy materials.
• Build and maintain strong bipartisan relationships with federal and state legislators, Medicaid officials, and regulatory leaders.
Government Partnership & Advocacy
• Represent GT Independence in legislative hearings, agency meetings, stakeholder workgroups, and policy roundtables.
• Advocate for policies that support self-direction, consumer choice, caregiver flexibility, and sustainable FMS operations.
• Collaborate with national associations, advocacy groups, and coalitions that influence LTSS, disability rights, and Medicaid policy.


State Agency & Program Engagement:


• Strengthen relationships with state program administrators, managed care organizations, and partners involved in self directed care.
• Support state RFP responses, program transitions, pilot initiatives, and expansions.
• Provide strategic guidance to internal teams during new state implementations to ensure regulatory alignment.
(GT has a track record of state program transitions and pilots.) [cga.ct.gov]
Internal Leadership & Cross Functional Partnership
• Advise GT’s executive leadership on government related risks, opportunities, and emerging policy trends.
• Partner with operations, compliance, legal, communications, and product teams to prepare for policy changes that impact services, technology, workforce management, and customer support.
• Support thought leadership, public speaking, and mission driven storytelling about the value of self direction.
Regulatory & Compliance Alignment
• Stay ahead of Medicaid, labor, tax, and FMS regulatory developments.
• Collaborate with legal and compliance teams to ensure GT’s policies and practices align with evolving rules.
• Translate regulatory changes into actionable guidance for internal departments.

Qualifications:


Required:
• Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration, Public Policy, Political Science, Government, Healthcare Administration, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in government affairs, Medicaid policy, public health, HCBS, or disability services.
• Proven experience working with state and/or federal government officials, legislators, and regulatory bodies.
• Strong understanding of Medicaid HCBS waivers, LTSS programs, and disability services.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to influence and advocate with diverse policy stakeholders.
• Ability to travel to state capitals, conferences, and government meetings as needed.
Preferred:
• Experience within self-direction/self-determination, financial management services (FMS), or home and community based services.
• Experience with government contracting, RFP engagement, and public procurement processes.
• Existing relationships with Medicaid agencies, disability rights organizations, or LTSS policymakers.
• Master’s degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, or related field.

Core Competencies:


• Political & Regulatory Acumen: Ability to navigate complex policy landscapes.
• Strategic Influence: Skilled at persuading diverse stakeholders and communicating mission driven narratives.
• Partnership Focus: Aligns government priorities with GT’s commitment to independence, dignity, and community.
• Mission Driven Leadership: Embodies GT values such as self determination, respect, and community.
• Operational Awareness: Understands how policy impacts service delivery, compliance, and customer experience.


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