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How much do surveillance pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 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 is a surveillance pilot?

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 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 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.

Do surveillance pilots make good money?

Surveillance pilots typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, employer, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced pilots with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher wages, often supplemented by benefits and overtime pay. Overall, the role can be financially rewarding for qualified professionals in the aviation industry.
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Surveillance Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surveillance Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,820 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Pilot - Deployed

Technology Service Corporation (TSC)

Sierra Vista, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 hours ago

Job description

Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, TSC is an employee-owned company that has been providing high-quality technical services and solutions for our customers for over 50 years. Our diverse portfolio includes providing full lifecycle support in Precision Strike and Area Effects; Area Protection; Airborne Sensors and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR); Vehicle Protection; Electronic Warfare Systems; Air and Missile Defense; Space Systems, and Intelligence and Information Systems. TSC offers a professional working environment, a competitive salary, and an excellent benefits package. Come and join our team!
Job Description:
TSC's Innovation and Rapid Development (IRD) and Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, (AISR) Division is actively recruiting an Air Vehicle Operator (AVO) with group 4 and above unmanned aircraft experience to join our team in a fast paced, dynamic environment. Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) AVOs with operationally deployed experience are encouraged to apply. Upon the candidate's selection, the individual is expected to adhere to, comply with, and ensure that others comply with contractual obligations, flight and ground procedures (FOPS/GOPS), and any operational requirements as directed by company and customer leadership. As an AVO, the individual will proficiently operate the unmanned aircraft as part of the team and at all times adhere to and enforce standardization procedures. As an integral member of the operational team, other duties may be assigned.
Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the unmanned aircraft system.
  • Serve as Pilot-In-Command, supporting daily flight operations.
  • Comply with flight procedures, training procedures, and standards and evaluation procedures.
  • Enforce flight and ground safety across the fleet.
  • Scheduled hours can fluctuate, must be available for shift work.
  • Supports Internal Audits and performance reviews, track data for operations managers and engineering.
  • Maintaining all readiness requirements for duties; certifications, proficiency, required skills or pre-requisites.

Required Knowledge:
  • Thorough understanding of aircraft components: powerplant, electrical systems, RF systems, as well as troubleshooting aircraft issues.
  • Familiarity with FAA/ICAO/DoD flight operational procedures.
  • Experience enforcing flight standards, airworthiness, and safety.
  • Understanding of DCMA procedures and reporting.
  • Accountability and Management of Government contract property procedures.

Required Skills:
  • Exceptional knowledge of Unmanned Aircraft procedures.
  • Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
  • Excellent organization and planning skills; excellent verbal and written communication.
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment and get along with others.
  • Ability to review, interpret, apply industry standards (FAA/ICAO), and ensure compliance to program requirements and publications.
  • Ability to quickly learn new Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Technical Manuals, and procedures.
  • Attention to detail and organization skills regarding aircraft logbooks and timeliness in completing required paperwork.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Must be a self-starter and be able to manage time efficiently.
  • Must be a critical thinker.

Required Qualifications:
  • 5+ years group 4 or larger UAS experience
  • At least 100+ PIC flight hours operating Unmanned Aircraft
  • Hold a FAA Private Pilot License and Instrument Rating
  • Possess and maintain current FAA Class 2 medical (annually)
  • Must meet requirements for CONUS or OCONUS duty
  • Must already hold an ACTIVE SECRET DoD clearance

Physical Work environment:
  • The position could require working in austere locations with limited access to selective food; shelter provided at worksite.
  • Ability to work outside for 12 hour shifts in >100 deg F weather.
  • Ability to lift overhead items.
  • While performing work duties, the employee is regularly required to walk, sit and stand and reach with hands and arms. Employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. This position requires close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
  • Ability to walk on flight lines and on ramps 1+ miles per day.

Safety Equipment used:
  • Ability to use PPE for mechanical, audible, and chemical hazards.
  • Additional equipment may be required for occupational hazards (situation dependent)

Medical requirements: A FAA class 2 flight physical is required annually. In addition to being found fit for the specific deployment by a medical and dental evaluation prior to deployment, there is also the requirement to comply with additional medical restrictions IAW US Government Standards as required. Final determination for approval resides with the Surgeon for the supported US Government Organization prior to deployment.
U.S. Citizenship Required: Yes
ACTIVE SECRET DoD Security Clearance Required for this Position: Yes
Drug screening: Required for employment, may be tested any time
Travel: Yes 50%, and up to 100%
Relocation Assistance Available: Yes
Position Contingent upon Award of Contract: No
TSC Benefits:
TSC offers a stable work environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package; including ESOP contributions, 401k Matching Program, Flexible Work Schedules, Tuition Reimbursement, Paid Leave and much more.
Applying to TSC:
Only those candidates invited for an interview will be contacted. Employment at TSC is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check, security investigation, and a drug screening.
This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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