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Uas Pilot Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Uas Pilot information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$52.5K

$109.9K

$193.9K

How much do uas pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for uas pilot in Raleigh, NC is $109,947.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,200.00 and $125,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a UAS pilot do?

As a UAS Pilot, your day often starts with reviewing mission objectives, checking weather conditions, and conducting pre-flight inspections to ensure all equipment is operational. Projects can range from aerial photography and mapping to infrastructure inspections, agriculture surveys, or emergency response support, depending on the employer's industry. UAS Pilots usually collaborate closely with data analysts, project managers, and sometimes clients to capture the specific imagery or data required. You may spend significant time both in the field operating drones and at a workstation processing flight data. The role offers a dynamic work environment, requiring adaptability as projects and locations can vary frequently.

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

To thrive as a UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Pilot, you need strong remote piloting skills, situational awareness, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations, usually backed by a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Familiarity with flight planning software, drone control systems, GPS navigation, and data collection tools is vital. Strong problem-solving abilities, clear communication, and attention to detail help UAS Pilots excel in dynamic environments. These competencies ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operations, often in rapidly changing field conditions.

What is a UAS pilot?

A UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) Pilot operates drones or unmanned aircraft for various applications, including aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, inspection, and defense. They are responsible for planning and executing flight missions while ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. UAS Pilots may work for private companies, government agencies, or as independent contractors. The role requires proficiency in drone operation, navigation, and safety protocols, often necessitating FAA certification or equivalent credentials.

Is there a demand for Uas Pilots?

The demand for UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) pilots is growing due to increased use in industries such as agriculture, construction, photography, and inspection services. Employers seek certified pilots with knowledge of FAA regulations, remote sensing, and drone operation, leading to expanding job opportunities in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Uas Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Uas Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Uas Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Uas Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Uas Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Uas Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Uas Pilot jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Uas Pilot job openings:

Uas Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uas Pilot job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,947 per year, or $52.9 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 10 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.