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Survey Pilot Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting ...

Survey Pilot information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$11

$24

$38

How much do survey pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for survey pilot in Baton Rouge, LA is $24.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $28.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a survey pilot?

Survey Pilots are professional aviators who operate aircraft specifically for aerial surveying and data collection purposes. Their primary role involves flying over designated areas to capture photographs, collect lidar or multispectral data, or conduct other types of airborne surveys. They work closely with surveyors, engineers, or scientists to ensure precise flight paths and accurate data collection. Survey Pilots often operate specialized equipment and must adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards. This job can involve irregular hours and travel to remote locations.

What is the difference between Survey Pilot vs Survey Coordinator?

AspectSurvey PilotSurvey Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires pilot licenses and aviation certificationsRequires educational background in research, statistics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentOperates aircraft for aerial surveysManages survey projects, coordinates teams and schedules
Industry UsageUsed mainly in aerial data collection, environmental monitoringCommon in research, market research, and project management

Survey Pilot and Survey Coordinator roles differ mainly in their credentials and work environment. Survey Pilots operate aircraft for aerial surveys, requiring aviation licenses, while Survey Coordinators manage survey projects on the ground, focusing on planning and coordination. Both roles are essential in data collection industries but serve distinct functions.

What does a survey pilot do?

A survey pilot usually flies for an organization to perform different measurement data capture flights. Your responsibilities include capturing data via aerial photos, making bedrock content measurement, and laser scanning when you are in flight. Other duties include safely operating the aircraft, conducting flights that comply with all regulations, communicating with maintenance to ensure that the plane and engine are working, performing post-flight and pre-flight operations and inspections, making sure that your navigation data is accurate, and keeping detailed and accurate records that are compliant with all FAA rules and regulations. You work with the sensor operators as you fly to complete assigned missions.

What are the typical challenges a survey pilot faces during aerial data collection missions?

Survey Pilots often encounter challenges such as flying in varying weather conditions, maintaining precise flight paths, and operating specialized survey equipment while ensuring safety and data accuracy. Coordination with ground crew and survey technicians is crucial, as is the ability to adapt to rapidly changing environments or mission requirements. Additionally, Survey Pilots must manage fatigue during long flight hours and comply with regulatory standards for both aviation and data collection procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a survey pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Survey Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong navigation skills, and experience with aerial survey operations. Familiarity with specialized survey equipment, GPS technology, and data collection systems is typically required, along with certifications such as Instrument Rating. Attention to detail, strong communication, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for managing variable weather and coordinating with ground crews. These skills ensure accurate data capture, safe flight operations, and effective teamwork in diverse and dynamic survey environments.

What are popular job titles related to Survey Pilot jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Survey Pilot jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Survey Pilot jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Survey Pilot jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Survey Pilot jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Survey Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Survey Pilot job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,683 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Survey Drone Pilot

Five-S Group

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for surveying and mapping projects. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting aerial surveys, processing geospatial data, and ensuring compliance with local aviation and safety regulations. You will work closely with engineering, surveying, and GIS teams to capture accurate aerial data for a variety of applications such as topographic mapping, construction monitoring, and infrastructure planning.
Must be able to pass a drug test and background check.