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Uav Drone Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intertek

UAV (Drone) Field Specialist

Houston, TX

... UAV (Drone) Field Specialist to join our Advanced Inspection Specialty Services (AISS) team in ... The UAV Field Specialist is a certified FAA Part 107 pilot responsible for executing all aspects of ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We ... Technical knowledge of UAV components * Betaflight and ESC software * Mechanical and electrical ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We ... Technical knowledge of UAV components * Betaflight and ESC software * Mechanical and electrical ...

provide

Survey Party Chief

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Interest in learning UAV (drone) piloting Preferred Skills: * FAA Part 107 certification Benefits: * Company truck with gas card and per diem * Professional development, training, and college ...

SAIC

ZOA Remote Pilot Operator

Fremont, CA · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position. We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidate to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Oakland ...

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Uav Drone Pilot information

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$130.9K

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How much do uav drone pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for uav drone pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a UAV drone pilot?

A UAV Drone Pilot operates unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to capture aerial imagery, conduct inspections, or perform surveillance. They follow flight plans, comply with regulations, and may work in industries like agriculture, construction, or defense. The role requires technical skills, situational awareness, and often certification from aviation authorities.

What does a UAV drone pilot do?

A typical day for a UAV Drone Pilot often starts with planning flight missions, including reviewing weather conditions, checking equipment, and obtaining necessary permissions. During operations, you will pilot drones to capture aerial data or video, monitor live telemetry, and troubleshoot any technical issues that arise. Collaboration with team members—such as surveyors, engineers, or filmmakers—is common to ensure mission objectives are met. After flights, you may spend time analyzing collected data, maintaining equipment, and logging flight details for compliance. The nature of the work may vary between outdoor fieldwork and indoor data processing, offering a dynamic and engaging routine.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a UAV drone pilot?

To thrive as a UAV Drone Pilot, you need proficiency in drone flight operations, navigation, and situational awareness, typically backed by relevant FAA certifications such as Part 107 for commercial operations. Experience with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and various drone platforms is essential. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help you excel in this role. These capabilities are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant drone operations across diverse environments and industries.

Are UAV drone pilots in high demand?

UAV drone pilots are in increasing demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, real estate, and film production due to the growing use of drone technology. Employment opportunities often require certifications, such as FAA Part 107, and skills in operating various drone models, with demand expected to grow as industries adopt aerial imaging and data collection solutions.

Do UAV drone pilots make a lot of money?

UAV drone pilots can earn varying salaries depending on experience, location, and industry, with median wages often ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Experienced pilots with specialized skills or certifications in industries like filmmaking, surveying, or inspection may earn higher incomes. Income can also be influenced by the frequency of jobs and the complexity of drone operations performed.

How do I become a UAV drone pilot?

To become a UAV drone pilot, you typically need to obtain a remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by passing an aeronautical knowledge test, especially if flying commercially. You should also gain experience operating drones, understand airspace regulations, and ensure your drone meets safety standards; some roles may require additional certifications or training in specific drone systems.
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Uav Drone Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav Drone Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 58% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

UAV Pilot (FAA Part 107 Certified)

Covered 6 LLC

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Overview


We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused UAV Pilot to conduct aerial surveillance and drone operations in support of security and counter-crime initiatives. This role requires a highly disciplined professional with strong situational awareness, technical drone expertise, and the ability to operate effectively in dynamic environments. The ideal candidate will hold a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and possess strong technical skills, have experience in flying, security, law enforcement, military operations, or related fields operational. This role requires strict adherence to FAA regulations, safety procedures, and company operational standards.


FAA Part 107 certification is required for commercial drone operations in the United States.


Key Responsibilities

  • Operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs/drones) safely and professionally during assigned missions
  • Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections and checklists
  • Ensure compliance with all FAA Part 107 regulations and company policies
  • Plan flight paths, airspace coordination, and mission objectives
  • Capture high-quality aerial video, photography, thermal imaging, or mapping data as required
  • Monitor weather, airspace restrictions, and environmental conditions before operations
  • Maintain accurate flight logs, maintenance records, and incident reports
  • Coordinate with operations personnel, security teams, clients, and management
  • Troubleshoot UAV systems, payload equipment, and software issues
  • Maintain visual line of sight and operational safety during all flights
  • Assist with UAV equipment maintenance and inventory management


Required Qualifications

  • Valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum 1–2 years of UAV/drone flight experience preferred
  • Thermal imaging, night time low light operations
  • Experience operating DJI and Autel UAV platforms
  • Knowledge of FAA airspace regulations and drone safety procedures
  • Strong situational awareness and decision-making skills
  • Ability to work independently and in team environments
  • Excellent communication and report-writing abilities
  • Must be able to pass background screening
  • Valid driver’s license with clean driving record


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in security, law enforcement, military, construction, inspections, or public safety operations
  • Experience with night operations and advanced flight missions
  • Prior experience conducting surveillance or tactical drone operations


Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
  • Ability to lift and carry UAV equipment up to 50 lbs
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Visual acuity sufficient for safe drone operations


Work Environment

  • Outdoor and field-based operations
  • May require travel to various job sites
  • Schedule including evenings, weekends, and emergency response operations when necessary


Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Opportunities for overtime and specialized assignments
  • Training and professional development opportunities
  • Company-provided UAV equipment 


Veterans and former public safety professionals are highly encouraged to apply.