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Temporary Uav Payload Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Sensor Operator IV

Grand Forks, ND · On-site

$65K - $99K/yr

The sensor operator will also serve as a crewmember of the UAV, assisting the Pilot-In-Command (PIC ... Operate the payload of the UAV, on the ground and in flight, in support of customer requirements ...

General Atomics

Sensor Operator IV

North Las Vegas, NV · On-site

The sensor operator will also serve as a crewmember of the UAV, assisting the Pilot-In-Command (PIC ... Operate the payload of the UAV, on the ground and in flight, in support of customer requirements ...

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How much do temporary uav payload operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary uav payload operator in the United States is $22.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary UAV payload operator?

Temporary UAV Payload Operators are professionals hired on a short-term basis to manage and operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) specifically focusing on the payloads they carry, such as cameras, sensors, or other equipment. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the correct installation, operation, and data collection of these payloads during UAV missions. They may work in various industries such as agriculture, surveying, or emergency response. Temporary positions are often project-based and may require specialized training or certifications, depending on the equipment and regulatory requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary UAV payload operator?

To thrive as a Temporary UAV Payload Operator, you need a solid understanding of UAV flight operations, payload integration, and a relevant technical background, often supported by certifications such as Part 107 (for the U.S.) or equivalent. Familiarity with UAV ground control systems, payload control software, and data acquisition tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, accurate, and efficient UAV missions, maximizing data quality and mission success while minimizing risks.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary UAV payload operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Temporary UAV Payload Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to new UAV platforms, managing rapidly changing mission requirements, and maintaining situational awareness in dynamic environments. Since assignments may be project-based or short-term, operators must be efficient at learning new payload systems and collaborating with diverse teams. Staying up to date on UAV regulations and prioritizing thorough pre-flight checks can help mitigate risks and support successful operations.

What is the difference between Temporary Uav Payload Operator vs Uav Pilot?

AspectTemporary Uav Payload OperatorUav Pilot
CredentialsFAA Part 107 certification, drone operation trainingFAA Part 107 certification, drone operation training
Work EnvironmentField operations, payload setup, data collectionFlying drones, navigation, flight control
Industry UsageSurveying, filming, inspection tasksMapping, aerial photography, surveillance

Both roles require FAA Part 107 certification and involve drone operation, but the Temporary Uav Payload Operator focuses on managing payloads and data collection, while the Uav Pilot primarily handles flying and navigation. They often work together in drone missions within similar industries.

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Temporary Uav Payload Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Uav Payload Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,951 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

UAV Robotics Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you driven by robotics and autonomous system development?
Do you enjoy hands-on design, integration, and testing of Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)?
Are you interested in applying your skills to meaningful projects that advance the state of uncrewed and autonomous systems?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We are seeking a UAV Robotics Engineer to help conceive, design, fabricate, integrate, and test a variety of novel UAV systems and payloads. In this role, you will contribute directly to the development of advanced autonomous capabilities and help shape the future of uncrewed systems. You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and technicians who are passionate about rapid prototyping, system design and integration, and rigorous field testing. Our team supports critical programs that directly benefit the nation's warfighters while fostering a collaborative, innovative, and fast-paced work environment.
As a UAV Robotics Engineer, your primary responsibilities will include...
  • Designing, fabricating, integrating, and testing UAV airframes, subsystems, and payloads.
  • Designing, integrating and testing mission-critical electronics for a variety of robotic systems.
  • Planning, executing, and leading local and remote field tests, incorporating feedback from end users to inform design revisions.
  • Serving as a technical lead and mentor within a multidisciplinary engineering team.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a BS in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics or related fields.
  • Have 2+ years of relevant experience working with UAVs, UGVs, UAS, UUVs or related robotic systems.
  • Have experience with the design, integration, and flight testing of both fixed-wing and multirotor UAVs.
  • Demonstrate strong skills in:
  • Are willing and able to support local and remote field test events, including operations in harsh and austere environments.
  • Hold an active Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Hold an MS or PhD in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Have experience developing and flight-testing autonomous UAV behaviors.
  • Are comfortable working across mechanical, electrical, and software domains.
  • Have led complex UAV development efforts from concept through deployment.
  • Have integrated perception sensors such as EO/IR cameras, LiDAR, radar, or RF payloads into UAV platforms.
  • Are comfortable making real-time engineering decisions during flight and field operations.
  • Have experience operating UAVs in GPS-degraded, RF-challenged, or denied environments.
  • Have experience with a variety of UAV airframe types (e.g., multirotor, fixed-wing, VTOL, coaxial, traditional helicopter).
  • Have experience with Uncrewed Underwater, Ground or Surface Vehicles (UUV, UGV, USV).
  • Thrive in fast-paced, prototype-driven environments with evolving requirements.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$195,000 Annually

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