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Uas Instructor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot ... Instructors) * Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is ...

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot ... Instructors) * Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is ...

Uas Instructor information

See Tennessee salary details

$6

$17

$46

How much do uas instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for uas instructor in Tennessee is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.35 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a UAS instructor?

UAS Instructors are professionals who teach individuals how to operate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), also known as drones. They provide both theoretical knowledge and practical flight training to students, often covering topics like safety regulations, flight planning, system maintenance, and hands-on piloting skills. UAS Instructors may work in educational institutions, flight schools, government agencies, or private companies, and are typically required to hold relevant certifications such as the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate in the United States. Their role is essential for ensuring that drone operators are knowledgeable and compliant with aviation laws.

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

To thrive as a UAS Instructor, you typically need expertise in unmanned aerial systems operations, a relevant aviation or technical degree, and FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent credentials. Familiarity with flight simulation software, mission planning tools, and various drone platforms is essential. Strong communication, instructional abilities, and adaptability help engage students with diverse backgrounds and learning styles. These skills ensure safe, effective training and compliance with regulations, ultimately preparing students for real-world UAS operations.

What are some common challenges UAS instructors face when training new drone pilots, and how can they overcome them?

UAS Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among trainees, rapidly evolving technology, and ensuring safety compliance. To address these, instructors typically tailor their teaching approaches to individual learning needs, stay current with the latest UAS regulations and equipment, and emphasize hands-on practice in controlled environments. Effective communication and fostering a collaborative classroom atmosphere also help trainees build confidence and competence in UAS operations.

What is the difference between Uas Instructor vs Uas Pilot?

AspectUas InstructorUas Pilot
Required CertificationsPart 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, instructor certificationPart 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, possibly additional certifications for specific drone types
Work EnvironmentTraining environments, classrooms, flight training sessionsOperational flights, site inspections, aerial photography
Employer & Industry UsageTraining companies, educational institutions, drone academiesConstruction, agriculture, media, inspection services

Uas Instructors focus on teaching and certifying new drone pilots, while Uas Pilots operate drones in various industries. Both roles require similar certifications, but their primary functions differ: instruction versus operational flying.

Are Uas instructors in high demand?

UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) instructors are increasingly in demand due to the growth of drone applications in industries such as agriculture, surveying, and filmmaking. The demand is driven by the need for certified pilots and instructors with FAA Part 107 certification and relevant flight experience, especially as regulations expand and commercial drone use becomes more widespread.

How to become a Uas instructor?

To become a UAS instructor, candidates typically need a valid remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), relevant flight experience, and completion of a UAS instructor training course. Instructors must also demonstrate knowledge of aviation safety, regulations, and operational procedures related to unmanned aircraft systems.
Infographic showing various Uas Instructor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,324 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

ZME Remote Pilot Operator

Memphis, TN • Remote


SAIC
IT Services • 10K+ employees

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Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job ID: 2613785

Location: Memphis, TN, US

Date Posted: 2026-06-17

Category: Information Technology

Subcategory: Computer Operator

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position.

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Memphis ARTCC (ZME), located in Memphis, TN, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Job Description:

The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator.  The RPO operates a combination of a simulated radar display and voice communication system to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.

The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications: Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
  • Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective oral and written communications skills
  • Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective team building skills
  • MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology



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