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Uav Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Platform Aerospace

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Blackstone, VA · On-site

$30 - $70/hr

UAV PILOT/INSTRUCTOR I-III DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS REPORTS TO: FLIGHT OPERATIONS TRAINING MANAGER CLASSIFICATION: NON-EXEMPT CLEARANCE: SECRET LOCATION: BLACKSTONE, VA This position may be ...

General Atomics

Test Pilot IV

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$140K - $252K/yr

Instruct UAV student pilots as well as instructor pilots-in-training in all aspects of UAV ground and flight operations including academic (platform instruction) and in-flight instruction. * Ensures ...

General Atomics

UAV Systems Specialist II

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$62K - $105K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced UAV Systems Technical Trainer to work in the ... Coordinates instructor led training programs with customer and/or contractor personnel ...

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How much do uav instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for uav instructor in the United States is $28.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $43.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a UAV Instructor job?

A UAV Instructor is responsible for training individuals on the operation, safety, and regulations related to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). They develop lesson plans, conduct classroom and hands-on flight training, and ensure students understand airspace rules and emergency procedures. UAV Instructors may work in military, commercial, or educational settings, teaching both beginner and advanced UAV pilots. Their role is crucial in ensuring safe and efficient UAV operations.

How do you become a drone instructor?

To become a drone instructor, you typically need to hold a valid remote pilot certificate from the FAA or relevant authority, have extensive flying experience, and complete a drone instructor training course. Many employers also require teaching skills and knowledge of safety regulations and operational procedures.

What is the salary of drone pilot instructor?

The salary of a UAV (drone) pilot instructor typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Instructors with advanced certifications and extensive flight hours may earn higher wages, especially in specialized training environments or military settings.

What are some common responsibilities of a UAV Instructor on a typical workday?

As a UAV Instructor, your typical day may involve preparing lesson plans, delivering classroom and hands-on flight instruction, supervising student UAV operations, and ensuring safety protocols are followed at all times. You’ll frequently assess student progress through evaluations or practical flight tests, maintain training equipment, and update instructional materials to keep up with evolving technology and regulations. Collaboration with other instructors, program coordinators, and occasionally industry partners is common to ensure consistent training standards. This role often provides a mix of structured lessons and dynamic outdoor sessions, offering both variety and opportunities to mentor aspiring drone operators.

What is a UAV pilot's salary?

A UAV pilot's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry sector such as agriculture, filmmaking, or inspection services. Entry-level pilots may earn less, while experienced professionals with advanced skills and certifications can earn higher wages, especially in specialized or commercial roles.

What is the highest paying drone job?

The highest paying drone jobs typically include roles such as drone pilot for aerial surveying, mapping, or inspection services, especially in industries like oil and gas, construction, or cinematography. These positions often require advanced certifications, specialized skills, and experience, with salaries reaching six figures for senior or commercial pilots working in high-demand sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Uav Instructor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a UAV Instructor, you need expert knowledge of unmanned aerial vehicle systems, flight operations, and instructional techniques, usually supported by commercial drone pilot certification (such as FAA Part 107) and teaching experience. Familiarity with UAV flight simulation software, ground control stations, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Outstanding communication, patience, and the ability to adapt to varying student skill levels are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, effective training environments and help students gain confidence and proficiency in UAV operations.

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Uav Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,142 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
UAV Instructor/Operator III

UAV Instructor/Operator III

General Atomics

Fort Carson, CO • On-site

$95K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

General Atomics rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Systems Integration, LLC (GA-SI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a provider of military and commercial engineering services. GA-SI is a leading-edge expert in systems integration technologies, reliability improvements, and controls system design.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Under general supervision, this position is responsible for coordinating ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution and briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and ground and flight safety. Serves as Instructor/Operator of assigned Unmanned Air Vehicle(s) (UAV).
  • Coordinates and actively participates in ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and safety.
  • May be called upon to remotely pilot vehicle to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability during engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support through specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers.
  • Defines, plans, organizes and executes flight programs and flight test events. ensures compliance with service guidance, company policy and procedures and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
  • May conduct demonstrations and tests of assigned UAV(s).
  • May represent the organization with military and commercial customers.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices. familiarity with Army forms, records and publications as well as Contractor Flight and Ground Operations procedures and records (DCMA 8210).

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires education training equivalent to the completion of a four-year technical degree or trade school equivalency and five or more years in UAV operation or aviation. Equivalent professional or military experience in UAV or aviation may be substituted in lieu of education.
  • Must demonstrate a basic understanding of UAV and FAA principles, theories and concepts.
  • Must possess at least six hundred (600) hours in a OSGCS/UGCS of which two hundred (200) hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
  • Graduate of DA or DES IO course.
  • Ability to travel on CONUS and OCONUS.
  • Ability to maintain a FAA Class II flight physical.
  • Good analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to accurately interface with all levels of employees and military and civilian customers, contractors and aircrew.
  • Basic knowledge of computer operations and applications.
  • The ability to work both independently and in a team environment is essential as is the ability to work extended hours and travel as required.

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About General Atomics

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General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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