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Surveillance Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... PILOT, Position Description Number D2929000 and is part of the NM Army Aviation Support Facility ... surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or supervising the training of crew ...

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 ...

$131K/yr

... instructor pilots, and aeroscout observers in flying techniques and methods of instruction ... surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or supervising the training of crew ...

$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 ...

$131K/yr

... Test Pilot. This position requires performance of general or limited maintenance test flights ... surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or supervising the training of crew ...

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Surveillance Pilot information

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How much do surveillance pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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.

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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:
What job categories do people searching Surveillance Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surveillance Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Surveillance Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,820 per year, or $23.5 per hour.
HELICOPTER PILOT

$110K/yr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


United States Army rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 468 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
NEW MEXICO ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

*You must be a member of the New Mexico Army National Guard to be eligible for this position
This National Guard position is for a HELICOPTER PILOT, Position Description Number D2929000 and is part of the NM Army Aviation Support Facility, National Guard.

Qualifications:

Military Grades: Officer (O-3 and below), Warrant Officer (CW2 and above)
Compatible Military Assignments: OBR: 15A
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:

GS-12 Army National Guard Warrant Officer Position: Must demonstrate the following specialized experience competencies (skills, knowledge, and abilities) to qualify for entry appointments to GS-2181-12 Army National Guard Dual Status Warrant Officer positions. Must have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, in military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facilities; or, in Air National Guard Wing/ Operations Groups. To qualify, the applicant must have at least two years specialized competencies in operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation. Experienced in reviewing and analyzing mission tasking, intelligence, and weather information. Experienced in filing flight plans and conducting crew briefings. Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, and equipment assessments. Experienced in performing or supervising work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling, search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or supervising the training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks. Experienced in developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders. Knowledge is required in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, mission tactics, and operating procedures. Experienced in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of Defense, Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and/or Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, regulations, and directives.

GS-12 Army National Guard Officer Positions: Must demonstrate the following specialized experience competencies (skills, knowledge, and abilities) to qualify for appointments to GS-2181-12 Army National Guard Dual Status Officer positions. Must have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facilities; or, in the Air National Guard Operations Groups. Qualification competencies are determined by three factors in combination: The aircraft operated; the nature and purpose of assignments; and, the degree of hazard. Experienced in piloting and instructing pilot skills in one or more of the following main-frame/military aircraft: Fixed-wing, rotary, or remotely piloted aircraft (RPA). Although a variety of piloting administrative tasks are performed in support of an Army National Guard aviation program, experiences include the abilities to train and instruct others in the piloting of a main-frame military aircraft. Experienced in mission tasking, intelligence reporting, and applying weather information. Experienced in supervising and/or filing of flight plans and conducting crew briefings. Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, equipment assessments, and mission manning. Experienced in operating aircraft controls and equipment. Experienced in performing or supervising the work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling; search and rescue operations; or surveillance and reconnaissance. Ability to conduct or supervise the training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks. Experienced in developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders. Experienced in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, aircraft operating procedures, and mission tactics. Must have at least two years experiences in instructing others in a specific air-frame/military aircraft. Competent to complete various piloting administrative tasks performed in support of Army National Guard aviation programs. Skilled to instruct others to pilot military aircraft on a regular and recurring basis. Experienced in the aviation unit quality control management programs; plus, skilled in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration directives. Experienced in following directives, regulations, accident reports, safety data, and local operating conditions to determine unit safety program requirements. Experienced in coordinating with appropriate agencies to ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and programs. Experienced in one or more missions such as, air-to-air; air-to- ground; mortar-to-arm escort; surveillance; reconnaissance; surface attack; killer-scout; target illumination; or laser targeting. Experienced in piloting manned or unmanned aircraft. Experiences may include the traditional "stick and rudder" type controls for piloting aircraft direction, altitude, and speed. Experienced in on-board aircraft instrumentation and aircraft mounted video cameras. Experienced in visual flight-rule type flying and aircraft instrument flying. Experienced in flying simulated "real world" combat and non-combat missions and terrain. Experienced in planning, scheduling, and conducting flights through Federal Aviation Administration controlled national airspace. Experienced in applying operational directives, training directives, instructions, standard operating procedures, and special instructions of National Guard Bureau, United States Army, and gaining commands. Experienced in working independently to plan and perform work assignments. Experienced in completing safe and efficient missions through the use of Operational Risk Management. Experienced in cancelling flying activities, diverting aircraft, dictating mission requirements, approving specific activities, coordinating for airport or airspace utilization with FAA, and/or, directing emergency actions involving unit support agencies. Experienced in using applicable Army aviation regulations, policies, requirements and standards, skills and practices; and, the applying instructional techniques to the training of other pilots in the Army National Guard flying facilities. Experienced in conducting particular combat tactics, missions, or specific main-frame aircraft; or, flying in mountainous terrain, performing tactical remote site evaluation, performing landings on remote sites, providing ground and flight training, and conducting night-vision operations and instruction. Experienced in standardization and evaluation programs, written ground examinations, emergency procedures, and aircrew performance standards in accordance with applicable directives and Federal Aviation Administration certification requirements. Experienced in reviewing and complying with applicable service flight publications and directives for accuracy and currency; and knowledgeable of weapons and tactics for applicable military aircraft. Experienced in maintaining detailed wartime and peacetime contingency plans and supplements for unit mobility, deployment, strange field operations/ employment, and redeployment.

Education:

Army National Guard Warrant Officer Positions- Must have a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. An undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university is optimum. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
Army National Guard Officer Positions- For Army National Guard Second and First Lieutenants must be actively pursuing an under- graduate degree with at least 90 validated credit hours in a specified program. For Captains and above, must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university. A Graduate Degree from an accredited civilian academic college or from an equivalent professional military education school is optimum. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs OR must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.


You must provide transcripts or other documentation to support your Educational claims. To receive credit for Education, you must provide documentation of proof that you meet the Education requirements for this position.

Employment Type: OTHER

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National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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