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Surveying Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial ... You will work closely with engineering, surveying, and GIS teams to capture accurate aerial data ...

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs (Unmanned Aerial ... You will work closely with engineering, surveying, and GIS teams to capture accurate aerial data ...

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Surveying Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do surveying pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for surveying 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.

What is a surveying pilot?

Surveying pilots are professionals who operate aircraft, often drones or small planes, to capture aerial data and images for mapping, land surveys, construction, or environmental monitoring. They play a crucial role in collecting precise geospatial information that is used by surveyors, engineers, and planners. Surveying pilots must be skilled in flight operations, understand airspace regulations, and be proficient with specialized surveying equipment and software. Their work helps ensure accurate measurements and supports decision-making in various industries.

How does a surveying pilot typically collaborate with survey teams during aerial data collection missions?

Surveying Pilots work closely with survey technicians, data analysts, and project managers to ensure accurate and efficient data collection. Before each mission, the pilot participates in pre-flight briefings to review flight plans, coordinate with ground crews, and confirm equipment setup. During flight, the pilot maintains communication with the survey team to address any real-time adjustments or challenges, such as changing weather conditions or technical issues. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential to ensure the collected data meets project requirements and safety standards.

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

To excel as a Surveying Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong navigation skills, and experience with aerial data collection techniques. Familiarity with GPS systems, aerial mapping software, and remote sensing equipment is typically required for accurate data acquisition. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe flight operations and precise, reliable survey results for clients or research purposes.

What is the difference between Surveying Pilot vs Survey Technician?

AspectSurveying PilotSurvey Technician
CredentialsFAA pilot license, surveying certificationsSurveying certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOperate UAVs in outdoor, open areasFieldwork on survey sites, data collection
Employer & IndustrySurveying firms, construction, mappingSurveying firms, civil engineering
Job FocusFlying UAVs for aerial surveysCollecting survey data, setting up equipment

Surveying Pilots primarily operate UAVs for aerial surveying, requiring pilot licenses and specialized certifications. Survey Technicians focus on data collection and fieldwork, supporting survey projects. Both roles are essential in the surveying industry but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work environment.

More about Surveying Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Surveying Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Surveying Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Surveying Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Surveying Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Surveying Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Surveying Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Surveying Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Survey Pilot I - Temporary

Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd.

Chesterfield, MO • On-site

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Short Description

Bowman has an opportunity for a Survey Pilot I to join our team in Chesterfield, MO. This position will be temporary full-time, which will end upon the completion of the project. The position is expected to last approximately three (3) months.

At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That’s why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.


Purpose

The Survey Pilot I plans, prepares, and executes aerial photography/data acquisition missions utilizing single-engine and multi-engine aircraft in a safe manner that ensures the highest product quality. May work as an Aerial Acquisition Technician (AAT) as scheduled or needed. Key responsibilities include attaining imagery and data to meet project specifications efficiently without the need for re-flight or additional production effort required due to quality or accuracy deficiencies.


Responsibilities

Leadership and Direction

  • Receives guidance from Chief Pilot, Assistant Chief Pilot, Aerial Acquisition Manager, Flight Instructors, and/or other survey pilots for aircraft performance, flight safety, and air traffic control issues.

 

At the Operational and Company Level

  • Contribute insights and suggestions for updates to the Flight Operations Manual and Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Engage in periodic training sessions to maintain and enhance piloting skills and knowledge.

Do the Work

  • Obtain project specifications and maps to fully understand mission requirements.
  • Conduct thorough pre-flight checks, alerting the Director of Maintenance to any irregularities.
  • Liaise with air traffic control (ATC), Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON), Military, and Special Use Airspace authorities to secure airspace access.
  • Confirm all mission-critical supplies and documents are onboard in collaboration with the Aerial Acquisition Administrator.
  • Actively participate in daily meetings to strategize and determine mission details, including aircraft relocation logistics.
  • Operate the aircraft adhering to Federal Aviation Regulations, Flight Operations Manual, STCs, SOPs, and company policies.
  • Continuously assess weather conditions and coordinate with Flight Operations to maximize data acquisition potential.
  • Ensure the aircraft is safely secured after the mission, conducting post-flight inspections and necessary equipment adjustments.
  • Manage fueling and loading, executing weight and balance calculations to ensure operational safety standards are met.
  • Utilize the Company’s multi-service credit card responsibly for fuel, minor repairs, and hangar fees, ensuring all receipts are submitted.
  • Diligently maintain personal and aircraft flight logs, as well as approve flight reports to uphold company records.
  • Organize travel essentials including rental vehicles, hotels, and airline reservations, submitting detailed and accurate expense reports.

Confirm the availability and adequacy of maintenance facilities and hangar space at base airports.


Success Metrics and Competencies
  • High level of integrity in every aspect of the work being performed.
  • Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
  • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with all levels of the organization, external partners, clients, and sub-consultants.
  • Highly motivated and problem-solving attitude.
  • Strong sense of urgency in responding to clients and with internal teams.
  • High degree of discretion and ability to manage highly confidential information.
  • Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
  • Self-reliance and ability to operate independently with limited direction.
  • Commitment to promoting the reputation of the company through quality of work.
  • Aspirations to grow professionally and advance within the company.
  • Ability to effectively manage multiple time-sensitive tasks.
  • Data analysis and interpretation skills.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent required. Associate’s degree in aviation or related field preferred.
  • Valid Pilot’s certificate (Commercial, Instrument, Multi-Engine), High Performance endorsements.
  • Current First or Second-Class Medical certification required.
  • 250+ hours total flight time, 500+ flight hours, preferred.
  • Valid Driver’s License (with safe driving record) and Passport (or ability to obtain one within three months of hire).
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) and experience using computers and managing files, including data uploads.
  • Cell phone with texting capabilities.
  • Personal Credit Card with $3,000 available credit to procure commercial flights, hotel, meals, and rental cars. Weekly reimbursement is made upon submission of expense report.

About Bowman

Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We’re committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.

A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.

 

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
  • Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.


Physical Demands and Working Environment
  • This position is subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements.
  • Ability to sit in a confined space in the plane for up to six (6) hours at a time.
  • Visual acuity to see close-up, distance, color, periphery, night, and depth.
  • Ability to input data using a computer keyboard and manipulate small equipment parts.
  • Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds of equipment and supplies.
  • Ability to adapt to changing temperatures, noise, light, and altitude.
  • Ability to pass DOT pre-employment, random and post-accident drug tests. 
  • Ability to reach, climb, bend, and stretch.
  • Ability to speak and hear clearly to exchange accurate information with customers, employees, and related business professionals.
  • Within single-engine, twin-engine, or turboprop aircraft.
  • Aircraft hangar.
  • Mobility around an office environment.
  • Exposure to odors, sound, altitude changes and weather daily.

Job Description Disclaimer

Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.

Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you’d like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.

Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.

If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent required. Associate’s degree in aviation or related field preferred.
  • Valid Pilot’s certificate (Commercial, Instrument, Multi-Engine), High Performance endorsements.
  • Current First or Second-Class Medical certification required.
  • 250+ hours total flight time, 500+ flight hours, preferred.
  • Valid Driver’s License (with safe driving record) and Passport (or ability to obtain one within three months of hire).
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) and experience using computers and managing files, including data uploads.
  • Cell phone with texting capabilities.
  • Personal Credit Card with $3,000 available credit to procure commercial flights, hotel, meals, and rental cars. Weekly reimbursement is made upon submission of expense report.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: TEMPORARY