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Suas Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

UAS Drone Pilot II

Hamilton, OH · On-site

Operate small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) to inspect electrical infrastructure in accordance ... Valid FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) or equivalent regulatory certification for commercial ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Austin, TX

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Houston, TX

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Kansas City, MO

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Overland Park, KS

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Chicago, IL

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Schaumburg, IL

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Atlanta, GA

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Saint Louis, MO

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Wichita, KS

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

GFT.

Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot

Dallas, TX

$38 - $55/hr

GFT is seeking an Advanced LiDAR UAS Pilot to join our Reality Capture Team. This hybrid role is ... Collect data from the air by utilizing state-of-the-art sUAS/Drones equipped with high-definition ...

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Suas Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do suas pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for suas pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a UAS pilot make?

UAS pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Certified pilots with specialized skills in drone operation and safety protocols tend to earn higher salaries, especially in commercial sectors like surveying, inspection, or filmmaking.

What is a SUAS Pilot job?

A SUAS (Small Unmanned Aerial System) Pilot operates drones for various applications, such as aerial photography, surveying, inspections, or security. They ensure safe and legal drone flights by following FAA regulations and company protocols. SUAS pilots may work in industries like construction, agriculture, public safety, or film production. Responsibilities often include mission planning, equipment maintenance, and data collection.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Pilots such as airline captains, especially those flying international or long-haul routes for major carriers, can earn $500,000 or more annually with experience, seniority, and additional pay incentives. Corporate and private jet pilots with extensive experience and specialized certifications may also reach this level of income, often supplemented by bonuses and benefits.

How much is Walmart paying drone pilots?

Walmart has hired drone pilots for delivery and inventory tasks, with reported pay rates ranging from approximately $15 to $25 per hour. Compensation can vary based on location, experience, and specific job responsibilities, and pilots often need relevant certifications and training to operate drones commercially.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Suas Pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a SUAS (Small Unmanned Aerial Systems) Pilot, you need a comprehensive understanding of drone operation, strong spatial awareness, and typically a relevant FAA Part 107 certification or other required licensure. Experience with flight planning software, GPS navigation, and familiarity with maintenance and troubleshooting of SUAS hardware is often essential. Attention to detail, effective communication, and quick decision-making set outstanding SUAS Pilots apart. These abilities ensure legal compliance and safety while delivering accurate data collection or aerial services across various industries.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a SUAS Pilot?

As a SUAS Pilot, your daily responsibilities often include pre-flight planning and equipment inspection, operating drones for specific missions such as aerial surveying or inspections, and post-flight data management. You may work closely with teams in fields like construction, agriculture, or public safety to ensure mission objectives are clearly understood and achieved. Maintaining flight logs and adhering to aviation regulations are also ongoing tasks. The role can involve both independent fieldwork and close collaboration with project managers and analysts, offering a dynamic and varied work environment.

How to be a UAS pilot?

To become a UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) pilot, you typically need to obtain a remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by passing an aeronautical knowledge test. You must be at least 16 years old, pass a background check, and follow regulations related to drone operation, including maintaining visual line of sight and flying below 400 feet. Practical skills, understanding of airspace rules, and familiarity with drone controls are essential for safe and compliant operation.
More about Suas Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Suas Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Suas Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Suas Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Suas Pilot jobs are:
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Suas Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Suas Pilot job openings in the United States 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 $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
UAS Drone Pilot II

UAS Drone Pilot II

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Hamilton, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Acuren rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 105 rated laboratories

Job description

Position Summary
Acuren is seeking Drone Pilot II to support operations in Cincinnati, OH. LOCAL APPLICANTS ONLY
THIS WILL BE A CALLOUT/TRAVEL POSITION.
As a highly skilled UAS (Drone) Pilot II, you will operate UAS to support aerial inspection programs for electrical transmission and distribution assets. The role involves executing flight missions to capture high-quality imagery and video data of poles, towers, conductors, and related components to support asset condition assessments. You will support data collection, preliminary analysis, and contribute to safe and efficient inspection operations under minimal supervision.
The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of GO 95 and GO 165 requirements, FAA Part 107 operations, and utility inspection procedures. This position is critical in supporting system reliability, safety, and regulatory compliance through aerial data collection.
Responsibilities
  • Operate small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) to inspect electrical infrastructure in accordance with FAA Part 107, company safety procedures, and project work plans.
  • Plan, execute, and document aerial missions across varied terrain, including rural, mountainous, and urban environments.
  • Capture high-resolution imagery for inspection and analysis of electrical transmission and distribution components.
  • Ensure data quality and consistency following standard flight parameters and detailed capture requirements.
  • Maintain detailed flight logs, mission reports, and equipment maintenance records.
  • Manage data upload, storage, and transfer processes for timely integration with inspection workflows
  • Coordinate with field inspectors, management, and safety personnel to optimize field efficiency and ensure compliant operations.
  • Collaborate with inspection team (engineers, technicians, site managers) to schedule missions, coordinate ground support, access site permissions, and ensure safe launch/recovery zones.
  • Follow continuous improvement: stay current with UAS technologies, sensor payloads (e.g., LiDAR, thermal imaging), inspection best practices and regulatory changes.
  • Comply with airspace authorizations, waiver requirements, and local jurisdiction flight restrictions.

Other work duties as assigned.
Requirements
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
  • Must be able to perform physically demanding tasks under supervision and respond promptly to field direction.
  • Expected to handle field gear and equipment transport to/from site setup areas independently.
  • Demonstrable experience flying UAS in challenging field conditions (remote terrain, near energized lines/towers, variable weather).
  • Proficiency with UAS flight planning software (waypoints, automated missions), and data capture workflows.
  • Basic knowledge of electrical infrastructure (transmission towers, poles, substations) and associated hazards (electrical safety, fall zones, climbing operations) is strongly preferred.
  • Strong situational awareness, spatial/hand-eye coordination, attention to detail in flight operations and data capture.
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills: able to work with field teams, site managers, and engineers; present findings clearly.

EDUCATION:
  • 3- 5 years of work experience operating UAS commercially, preferably in infrastructure inspection, utilities or similar environment.
  • Valid FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) or equivalent regulatory certification for commercial UAS operations.

Working Conditions
  • Outdoor work in varying and sometimes extreme weather (heat, cold, wind, rain, snow) while maintaining flight and safety standards.
  • Exposure to electrical hazards, electromagnetic fields, and high-voltage environments-must maintain required safety clearances and PPE use.
  • Frequent travel to inspection sites, including remote or rural locations; may require overnight stays or extended assignments.
  • Occasional work at heights, near energized infrastructure, or within confined/controlled areas (e.g., substations).
  • Extended concentration and situational awareness needed during flight operations to monitor aircraft position, airspace, and obstacles.
  • Ability to wear and operate while using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, high-visibility vests, gloves, and hearing protection as required by site safety rules.

PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS & DEMANDS:
  • Ability to stand, walk, and operate equipment for extended periods (up to 8-10 hours per day) in outdoor environments.
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to safely control drones, operate handheld controllers, tablets, and sensor payloads.
  • Visual acuity (with or without corrective lenses) sufficient to maintain visual line of sight (VLOS) with UAS, assess airspace conditions, and evaluate imagery for quality and accuracy.
  • Auditory ability to hear and respond to commands, communications, and environmental sounds (e.g., approaching vehicles, equipment, or other hazards).

Company Overview
Acuren is a trusted, single source provider of technology-enabled asset protection solutions used to evaluate the structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructures. Committed to delivering a Higher Level of Reliability, Acuren provides an unrivaled spectrum of capabilities including inspection, traditional and advanced NDE/NDT, failure analysis, rope access, materials engineering, field engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring services.
Our work is critical to the integrity and safety of industrial firms, including petroleum refinery, pipeline, power generation, pulp & paper, mining, pharmaceutical, aerospace and automotive industries. Acuren employs over 4,000 dedicated professionals supporting the mechanical integrity and inspection programs of the world's largest industrial segments.
Acuren is a market leader. Our formula for success is straightforward: be capable locally, with certified and well-equipped personnel supported by trained, experienced leaders. Continuing to build on a strong heritage of safety, quality and professionalism, Acuren strives to maintain incident free work environments, pursues advanced technical developments, and supports reliability programs that are valued by clients and employees. #LI-BE1

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