1

Surveillance Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Washington, DC · On-site

$106K - $137K/yr

... surveillance, search and rescue operations, traffic monitoring and reporting as well as the timely ... The incumbent pilots an Airbus AS350B3 helicopter in support of law enforcement duties, including ...

Helicopter Pilot

Bunnell, FL · On-site

$74K - $92K/yr

Helicopter Pilot The Flagler County Sheriff's Office is seeking a highly motivated, professional ... Conducts aerial surveillance, thermal imaging operations, search missions, perimeter containment ...

We are a dynamic Airborne ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) company specializing ... The Chief Pilot will play a key role in ensuring the safe and effective operation of our fleet ...

FL · On-site

$74K - $92K/yr

Helicopter Pilot Responsibilities: * Operates agency helicopter during law enforcement, emergency ... Conducts aerial surveillance, thermal imaging operations, search missions, perimeter containment ...

$131K/yr

... surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or supervising the training of crew ... Experienced in piloting and instructing pilot skills in one or more of the following main-frame ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Surveillance Pilot information

See salary details

$15

$23

$29

How much do surveillance pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for surveillance pilot in the United States is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Surveillance Pilots in their day-to-day work?

Surveillance Pilots often face challenges such as operating in varying weather conditions, flying long and sometimes monotonous missions, and maintaining concentration for extended periods. This role may involve working unusual hours, including nights or weekends, to support real-time surveillance requirements. Additionally, pilots must remain highly vigilant to ensure both flight safety and the integrity of the data collected, often coordinating closely with ground teams and analysts. Adaptability and the ability to quickly interpret unexpected situations are key to successfully overcoming these challenges.

What is a Surveillance Pilot job?

A Surveillance Pilot operates aircraft to conduct aerial monitoring, reconnaissance, and data collection for law enforcement, military, or private organizations. They utilize specialized equipment such as cameras and sensors to observe and report on targets, terrain, or activities. The role requires strong piloting skills, situational awareness, and the ability to follow mission protocols. Surveillance Pilots often work in varying conditions and may need security clearances depending on the employer.

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

To thrive as a Surveillance Pilot, you need strong piloting skills, aerial navigation expertise, and a valid commercial pilot’s license with appropriate ratings or endorsements. Familiarity with surveillance technologies such as advanced cameras, sensors, and mission management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and clear communication are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure safe and effective operation of surveillance missions and the accurate gathering and reporting of critical data.

More about Surveillance Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Surveillance Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Surveillance Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Surveillance Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Surveillance Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Surveillance Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Surveillance Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Surveillance 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 $48,820 per year, or $23.5 per hour.
Technical Pilot - Flight Test Captain

Technical Pilot - Flight Test Captain

United Airlines, Inc.

Denver, CO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


United Airlines rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 334 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 26 rated airlines


Job description

Description
Technical and Test Pilot: Primary role is to provide expertise and program management for all aircraft communications and surveillance projects. This is not an ALPA-represented role or a seniority list position.
• Develop and support needs and requirements of United Airlines with regards to onboard communication and surveillance avionics/computer systems for all fleets.
• Have knowledge of the various communication and surveillance initiatives worldwide and how they affect United's fleet and Pilot training requirements.
• Participate in ICAO, FAA and Industry workgroups and meetings. Develop, coordinate and communicate United's position on regulatory requirements.
• Responsible for coordinating with UAL NOC Air Traffic Strategy, Tech Ops Avionics Engineering and Flight Standards the future aircraft hardware needs reference CNS/ATM initiatives.
• Responsible for evaluating current operations to improve operational metrics by enhancing the application of current aircraft capabilities.
• Coordinate Operation Specification changes to gain approval to use new aircraft technology.
• Respond to aircraft technology questions collected via the various Flight Operations media.
• Ensure existing Communications and Surveillance systems like SATCOM, ACARS, FANS, WX Radar, TCAS, and ADS-B Out maintain operational readiness and respond to reports of failures that can jeopardize efficient aircraft routing.
• Be able to step into Technical Pilot - Navigation, Technical Pilot - Communications, and Technical Pilot - Surveillance roles as necessary to cover workload.
• Responsible to determine technology items needed in the both the capital plan and yearly budget.
• Determine areas to increase automation, increasing flight operations' productivity and efficiency while reducing company costs and pilot workload.
• Maintains qualification and currency in one or more aircraft in both seats as a test pilot
• Flies test profiles in assigned aircraft
• Flies Non-Routine Flight Operations (NRFO) Group II missions requiring other than normal procedures.
• Flies other flights as directed such as Group I NRFO, STC, Operational Confirmation, or position flights.
• Flies project work such as New Aircraft Acceptance/Delivery, new technology and supplemental type certificate flights as assigned
• Maintains all qualifications current such as medical, passport, visas and badging
Qualifications
What's needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
• Bachelor's Degree
• Airline Captain or Military Flight Test leadership/management experience
• Flight test or functional test flight experience
• Current Airline Transport Pilot certification
• Current First-Class FAA Medical certification
• Current and valid Passport
• Excellent critical thinking, communication, interpersonal, and leadership skill
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
• Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
• Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position
What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):
• BS Engineering
• Test Pilot School graduate
• Broad range of domestic and international flight experience in multiple fleets.
• Recent Airline/Flight Test experience (4+ years out of the past 10)
• Type ratings in United fleet aircraft
• Knowledge of systems engineering

What United Airlines employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


United Airlines logo

About United Airlines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

United Airlines is embarking on an exciting journey to become the best airline in aviation history. Our purpose, "Connecting People, Uniting the World," extends beyond transportation, emphasizing our commitment to uplift and create opportunities in the places we serve. With a global presence and diverse workforce, we value inclusivity and are dedicated to hiring tens of thousands of individuals across various roles. Our comprehensive benefits package, including perks like space available travel, parental leave, and 401k, aims to support your well-being and growth.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1926

Social media