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Suas Flight Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wing is looking for a sUAS Flight Operator to join our Flight Operations team for a 36-month fixed term contract. This role is based O nsite in Durham, NC. In this role,you'll help us operate ...

UAS Associate Pilot

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

They will be required to learn and adhere to specific flight SOPs for aerial inspections and for operating within specified weather conditions to ensure safety. In addition, the position of sUAS ...

sUAS Pilot

Huntsville, AL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Make sound go/no-go and in-flight risk decisions to protect personnel, equipment, test assets, and company interests. Requirements * 3+ years of experience in operating and maintaining sUAS systems

... flight plan or obtaining useful footage At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and ... operating within a DoD environment · Familiarity with mechanical systems and parts compliance ...

... flight plan or obtaining useful footage At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and ... operating within a DoD environment • Familiarity with mechanical systems and parts compliance ...

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Suas Flight Operator information

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$14

$28

$47

How much do suas flight operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for suas flight operator in the United States is $28.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sUAS flight operator?

SUAS Flight Operators are professionals responsible for piloting small unmanned aerial systems (SUAS), commonly known as drones, for various purposes such as surveillance, mapping, photography, or inspection. They plan and execute flight missions, ensure compliance with aviation regulations, and maintain the operational readiness of the drone equipment. These operators may work in sectors like agriculture, construction, public safety, or the military. Their role often includes pre-flight checks, risk assessments, and post-flight data analysis. Proper certification and training are typically required to operate SUAS commercially or in regulated environments.

What are some common challenges sUAS flight operators face when coordinating unmanned aerial system (UAS) missions with other teams?

Suas Flight Operators often encounter challenges related to communication and coordination with other departments, such as air traffic control, ground crews, and data analysis teams. Ensuring flight schedules do not conflict with manned aircraft operations and adhering to rapidly changing regulations can be complex. Additionally, operators must be proactive in troubleshooting technical issues and adapting to unexpected weather or environmental changes. Developing strong collaborative skills and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of regulations are key to overcoming these challenges effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sUAS flight operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a sUAS Flight Operator, you need proficiency in drone piloting, knowledge of airspace regulations, and FAA Part 107 certification. Familiarity with mission planning software, GPS navigation systems, and data collection tools is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving, and effective communication skills help operators manage flight safety, adapt to changing environments, and collaborate with teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring compliance, mission success, and the safe, efficient operation of unmanned aerial systems.

What is the difference between Suas Flight Operator vs Paragliding Instructor?

AspectSuas Flight OperatorParagliding Instructor
Required CertificationsSuas Flight Operator License, pilot certificationParagliding Instructor Certification, pilot license
Work EnvironmentAircraft operation, aerial tours, commercial flightsGround and air instruction, training sessions
Employer & IndustryAviation companies, tour operatorsFlying schools, adventure sports companies

Suas Flight Operators and Paragliding Instructors both require pilot certifications and work in aerial environments. However, Suas Flight Operators focus on aircraft operation for commercial purposes, while Paragliding Instructors primarily teach and supervise recreational flying. Both roles involve safety oversight and certification compliance, but their work settings and responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Suas Flight Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Suas Flight Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Suas Flight Operator job openings:

What states have the most Suas Flight Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Suas Flight Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Suas Flight Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,871 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

sUAS Flight Operator (FTC), Durham

Wing

Charlotte, NC

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

About the Role: 

Wing is looking for a sUAS Flight Operator to join our Flight Operations team for a 36-month fixed term contract. This role is based Onsite in Durham, NC. In this role, you'll help us operate multiple highly autonomous small uncrewed aircraft systems. You will be a line sUAS Flight Operator for Wing's Part 135 commercial drone delivery service in the US operating out of our area operations center. Working with a team of technicians and field operators, you'll operate the system while monitoring flight and system conditions. You will be expected to meet and maintain the qualification requirements to act as a sUAS Flight Operator for our commercial drone delivery service. The ideal candidate has a passion for aviation and the ongoing development of this new industry and has three or more years of experience in a safety critical industry/role such as aviation, energy, transportation, etc.


This position is subject to Wing's Drug and Alcohol testing policy in accordance with Wing's procedures and DOT/ FAA regulatory requirements. Wing is a Zero Tolerance Drug Free Workplace. All prospective employees in FAA/DOT-regulated roles are subject to pre-employment drug testing. Any applicant applying to a FAA/DOT regulated role who has previously tested positive on any required drug or alcohol test at a former employer will be considered ineligible for employment with Wing.

What You'll Do:

  • Report to the Chief Pilot or Assistant Chief Pilot
  • Qualify and function as a Part 135 sUAS Flight Operator for Wing's highly autonomous drone delivery service on a regular basis
  • Work with the Flight Operations Manager to ensure daily operations are safely conducted
  • Communicate with other crewmembers to safely and effectively operate the system
  • Ensure daily Remote Operations Center's technical and operational readiness
  • Maintain the high professional standards required for a drone Part 135 pilot-in-command

What You'll Need: 

  • Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot certificate
  • Current driver's license and clean driving record within the last 36-months
  • 3+ years experience with commercial or public UAS operations or university level education and training in civil aviation operations
  • Experience working with web-based monitoring and control systems
  • Experience with technical or engineering record keeping methods and tools
  • Ability to communicate clearly in spoken and written English
  • Ability to work a rotating 7-day schedule within crew duty time limits, including weekends and holidays
  • Willingness to travel to complete initial and recurrent training
  • Ability to work independently and in teams while still maintaining rigorous attention to detail
  • Able to maintain attention to detail for extended periods in a monitoring role  
  • Must possess FAA First, Second or Third Class Medical Certificate or obtain prior to start date
  • Willing to meet Pilot Records Database (PRD) consent requirements