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Uas Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Uas Operator information

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$10

$19

$28

How much do uas operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for uas operator in Raleigh, NC is $19.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do Uas Operators make good money?

UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) operators can earn a competitive salary, often ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 annually depending on experience, location, and industry. Certified operators with specialized skills in drone technology and regulations tend to have higher earning potential, especially in sectors like surveying, agriculture, or film production.

How to get a job as a Uas Operator?

To become a Uas (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Operator, candidates typically need a combination of relevant education, such as a high school diploma or equivalent, and specialized training in drone operation. Obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA or relevant authority is often required, along with hands-on experience with drone equipment and safety protocols. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of airspace regulations are essential for securing employment in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a UAS operator?

To thrive as a UAS Operator, you need strong piloting skills, situational awareness, and a deep understanding of drone technology, typically supported by an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or relevant military/commercial credentials. Familiarity with ground control software, flight planning tools, GPS systems, and UAS maintenance procedures is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators excel in both independent missions and collaborative operations. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and compliant execution of unmanned aerial systems operations across various applications.

What does a Uas Operator do?

A UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) Operator is responsible for flying and managing drones or unmanned aerial vehicles, often for tasks such as aerial photography, surveying, inspection, or data collection. They operate remote control systems, follow safety protocols, and may need certification or training to ensure proper and safe drone operation.

What is a UAS operator?

A UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) Operator is responsible for piloting drones for various applications, such as aerial surveying, reconnaissance, photography, and inspections. They ensure safe and legal operation by following aviation regulations and mission-specific protocols. UAS Operators may work in industries like defense, agriculture, construction, or emergency response. Their tasks include flight planning, equipment maintenance, data collection, and reporting. Some positions require specialized training or certifications, depending on the type of drone and industry.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a UAS operator?

As a UAS Operator, your daily responsibilities often include pre-flight checks, mission planning, navigating and piloting the drone during operations, and collecting or analyzing aerial data. You may also be responsible for troubleshooting equipment, maintaining logs, and ensuring all flights adhere to regulatory safety standards. Depending on the industry, you could collaborate closely with surveyors, engineers, public safety officials, or media teams. Flexibility is important, as tasks can vary based on client needs, weather conditions, and site locations. This dynamic work environment offers opportunities to continually develop new technical and team-based skills.

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What job categories do people searching Uas Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Uas Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Uas Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Uas Operator job openings:
Uas Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uas Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,573 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

FPV Drone Pilot/Instructor

Oak Grove Technologies LLC

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description:

Oak Grove Technologies, LLC, a dynamic and fast-growing federal contractor, is seeking a First-Person View (FPV) drone pilot and instructor to support field operations and training across diverse environments. You’ll operate Group 1 and Group 2 UAS platforms for data collection, testing, training, and mission support.

Location: Multiple Potential U.S. Locations -- (Contingent Upon Contract Award)


We are hiring for both part-time, 1099 instructors based on the number of courses scheduled and requests for custom courses as well as Full-Time instructors. Candidates with prior military small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) experience are particularly well-suited for this role. Experience operating UAS in tactical environments, supporting mission planning, reconnaissance, training operations, or integration with maneuver elements provides a strong foundation for instruction within OGT’s structured, performance-driven FPV training programs.


This position will require an onsite presence.

Requirements:

FPV Drone Pilot Instructor (Group 1–2) — 1–3 Years Experience


Key Responsibilities

  • Plan, brief, and execute FPV UAS missions on Group 1–2 platforms in accordance with SOPs, airspace rules, and customer objectives.
  • Conduct pre-/post-flight inspections, mission planning, risk assessments, and debriefs; maintain accurate flight and maintenance logs.
  • Configure payloads and mission profiles; integrate sensors (e.g., EO/IR, RGB, multispectral) and verify data quality.
  • Troubleshoot in the field (communications links, GNSS, firmware, GCS, power systems) and perform minor maintenance and repairs.
  • Operate safely in varied terrain and weather; establish launch/recovery sites and manage battery/energy logistics.
  • Coordinate with cross-functional teams (ops, safety, engineering, and customers) to meet mission timelines and deliverables.
  • Adhere to regulatory and site requirements (airspace authorizations, NOTAMs/TFRs, LAANC/waivers, range/site rules).
  • Contribute to SOP improvements, safety reporting, and after-action reviews.
  • Train and mentor U.S. military units, U.S. government agencies, and partner forces on Group 1–2 UAS operations, safety, and maintenance; develop lesson plans, conduct classroom/field instruction, evaluate proficiency, and document training outcomes.

Required Qualifications

  • 1–3 years hands-on experience operating Group 1–2 UAS platforms, including FPV and autonomous flight modes.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with GCS software and mission planning tools (e.g., ArduPilot/ArduCopter, PX4, QGroundControl, Mission Planner, or similar).
  • Strong FPV stick skills: precise low-altitude flight, confined-area navigation, and manual recovery techniques.
  • Experience delivering training to professional or government audiences; ability to tailor instruction for diverse skill levels and mission sets.
  • Experience with payload integration and data collection workflows.
  • Ability to travel frequently and remain on assignment for 3–6 months; valid passport or ability to obtain one if required.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs; comfortable working outdoors in varied conditions.
  • Excellent situational awareness, communication, and teamwork skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or ability to obtain within 60 days).
  • Prior experience training U.S. military, federal agencies, or partner forces on UAS operations, safety, and maintenance; instructor certifications a plus.
  • Experience with BVLOS concepts, waivers, or shielded operations.
  • Familiarity with spectrum management and RF link tuning (2.4/5.8 GHz, sub-GHz, telemetry).
  • Field maintenance experience: airframe repairs, ESC/motor swaps, soldering, firmware flashing.
  • Sensor experience: EO/IR gimbals, mapping payloads, LiDAR, or thermal imaging.
  • Experience on named platforms common in Group 1–2 (e.g., DJI, Skydio, Teledyne FLIR, Ascent/Parrot, Auterion/PX4-based, custom builds).

Work Conditions

  • Field-based with extensive travel; deployments may last 3–6 months.
  • Irregular hours, weekend/holiday work possible based on mission schedule.
  • Outdoor environments including remote sites; PPE and safety protocols provided.

Location

  • Various U.S. Locations (and potentially OCONUS).

Compensation and Benefits

  • Competitive salary with field differential and per diem during travel.
  • Travel, lodging, and mission-related expenses covered per company policy.
  • Benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401(k)) and paid time off.

Security and Compliance

  • Ability to pass background check and drug screening.
  • Eligibility to work in the United States; ability to obtain site- or program-specific clearances as required.

Compensation and Benefits:

Competitive Pay, PTO, Health Benefits.


If you're ready to apply your expertise in a high-impact role, we encourage you to join our mission.


Oak Grove Technologies is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Oak Grove Technologies, LLC participates in E-Verify to determine an individual's identity and employment eligibility to work in the United States. E-Verify is a service of DHS and SSA.