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Uas Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled UAS Drone Pilot to join our team for operations across various sectors, including but not limited to surveying, infrastructure inspection, agriculture ...

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled UAS Drone Pilot to join our team for operations across various sectors, including but not limited to surveying, infrastructure inspection, agriculture ...

UAS Drone Pilot III

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Position Summary Acuren is seeking UAS Pilot III to support operations in Cincinnati, OH. (RELOCATION ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR QUALIFIED APPLICANTS) As a senior UAS Pilot III in the electrical ...

UAS Drone Pilot III

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Position Summary Acuren is seeking UAS Pilot III to support operations in Cincinnati, OH. (RELOCATION ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR QUALIFIED APPLICANTS) As a senior UAS Pilot III in the electrical ...

Drone Pilot

Topeka, KS · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team. This role is focused exclusively on performing drone-based inspections of wind turbines and ...

Drone Pilot Location: Middle TN Travel: ~10 percent Compensation: Based on experience Hiring ... This role is ideal for an experienced UAS professional who thrives in complex environments where ...

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team. This role is focused exclusively on performing drone-based inspections of wind turbines and ...

Drone Pilot

Denton, TX · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team. This role is focused exclusively on performing drone-based inspections of wind turbines and ...

Drone Pilot

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team. This role is focused exclusively on performing drone-based inspections of wind turbines and ...

Drone Pilot

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team. This role is focused exclusively on performing drone-based inspections of wind turbines and ...

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team. This role is focused exclusively on performing drone-based inspections of wind turbines and ...

Drone Pilot

Denton, TX · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team. This role is focused exclusively on performing drone-based inspections of wind turbines and ...

Drone Pilot

Topeka, KS · On-site

$60/day

We are seeking highly motivated Field Drone Pilots (UAS Pilots) to join our growing U.S. Operations Team. This role is focused exclusively on performing drone-based inspections of wind turbines and ...

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Uas Drone Pilot information

See salary details

$54K

$113.1K

$199.5K

How much do uas drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for uas drone pilot in the United States is $113,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $129,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a UAS drone pilot?

A UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) Drone Pilot operates drones for various applications, including aerial photography, surveying, mapping, inspections, and surveillance. They must follow FAA regulations, conduct pre-flight checks, and ensure safe and efficient drone operations. Depending on the industry, they may work in agriculture, construction, real estate, filmmaking, or public safety. Many drone pilots obtain FAA Part 107 certification to operate commercially in the U.S.

What does a UAS drone pilot do?

A typical day for a UAS Drone Pilot often involves pre-flight checks, mission planning, conducting aerial surveys or data collection flights, and ensuring all operations comply with FAA regulations. You may also spend time analyzing collected data, maintaining drones and equipment, and communicating findings to stakeholders such as engineers, surveyors, or project managers. Collaborating with team members to ensure client objectives are met and safety procedures are followed is a regular part of the job. Depending on the employer, you may also travel to various field sites or work outdoors in different weather conditions. This variety makes the role dynamic and ideal for those who enjoy both technology and hands-on fieldwork.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the UAS drone pilot position?

To thrive as a UAS Drone Pilot, you need solid skills in aeronautical navigation, drone operation, situational awareness, and usually a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) from the FAA. Familiarity with flight planning software, mapping systems, GPS technology, and various drone models is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you manage airspace compliance and coordinate with team members or clients. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable flight operations in diverse environments, meeting legal and project-specific standards.

How much do Uas Drone Pilots earn?

UAS drone pilots typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drone operations. Salaries can range from around $40,000 to over $100,000 annually for full-time positions, especially for those with specialized skills or certifications. Many pilots also work freelance or on a project basis, which can affect income levels.

How to become a Uas drone pilot?

To become a UAS drone pilot, individuals typically need to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by passing an aeronautical knowledge test. They should also gain experience operating drones safely, understand airspace regulations, and use appropriate drone equipment and software for commercial operations.

Is there a demand for Uas Drone Pilots?

The demand for UAS drone pilots is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, real estate, and media, driven by increased use of drone technology for aerial imaging, surveying, and inspections. Certified pilots with skills in operating various drone models and understanding regulations are sought after as businesses expand their drone applications.

What cities are hiring for Uas Drone Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Uas Drone Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Uas Drone Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Uas Drone Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Uas Drone Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Uas Drone Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Uas Drone Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Uas Drone Pilot jobs are:

Infographic showing various Uas Drone 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 $113,105 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled UAS Drone Pilot to join our team for operations across various sectors, including but not limited to surveying, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and emergency response. As a Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient execution of complex drone missions, managing the technical aspects of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and adhering to strict regulatory standards across the United States.

This position requires a deep technical understanding of drone technology, flight planning, regulatory compliance, and risk management, with a focus on precision operations in both urban and rural environments. 
Key Responsibilities:
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute complex drone missions in accordance with operational goals, ensuring optimal flight safety and data quality.
  • Perform manual and autonomous flight operations using a variety of drone systems (e.g., multirotors, fixed-wing, hybrid), including the latest models in surveying, inspection, and mapping.
  • Work with cross-functional teams to integrate drone capabilities with other technologies (e.g., LiDAR, thermal imaging, photogrammetry, GIS mapping tools).
  • Oversee the collection of high-resolution aerial data (e.g., images, video, 3D models, thermal imagery) during flight missions.
  • Ensure proper storage and security of data collected during flights, complying with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR).
  • Perform basic post-processing tasks (e.g., georeferencing, stitching, creating flight logs) and work with external software platforms (e.g., Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Agisoft).
  • Conduct pre-flight equipment checks, including batteries, sensors, camera systems, and communication links.
  • Provide comprehensive mission reports, including flight logs, data analysis, and actionable insights for clients.
Qualifications:
  • Valid Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) permission, including Part 107, Part 135 (if applicable), and any specific local or state requirements.
  • Minimum 3 years of professional drone piloting experience in complex operations.
  • Extensive experience with drone platforms such as DJI Matrice, Phantom, Inspire, or custom-built UAS.
  • Proven track record of flying drones for commercial applications in sectors like surveying, mapping, infrastructure inspection, or agriculture.
  • Experience in working within restricted airspace and coordinating with aviation authorities (ATC).
  • Strong knowledge of geospatial software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS, Pix4D, Agisoft) and drone flight management tools (e.g., DJI Terra, Litchi).
  • Expertise in flying drones in diverse environments (urban, rural, industrial, hazardous).
  • Strong knowledge of drone flight systems, payloads (e.g., LiDAR, RGB cameras, multispectral sensors), and sensor calibration.
  • Familiarity with international regulations regarding drone operations, especially in the United States.
  • Problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues in the field.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for mission planning, data management, and safety protocols.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • High proficiency in data post-processing techniques and software tools (e.g., photogrammetry, georeferencing).
  • A degree or diploma in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Aviation, Geomatics, Engineering, or a related field is highly preferred.
  • First Aid Certification
  • Willingness to travel frequently across US for client projects and site-specific operations.
We would be happy to get to know you and your skills better and see how we can support each other's growth.

Please apply and let's meet!
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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