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Uav Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UAV Systems Specialist III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

The UAV System Specialist will be responsible for the research, coordination, development, and ... Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

UAV Build & Test Technician Company: Grid.aero Location: Onsite 5 days/week [San Leandro, CA ... Led by experienced aerospace and technology operators and backed by leading venture investors, we ...

UAV Build & Test Technician Company: Grid.aero Location: Onsite 5 days/week [San Leandro, CA ... Led by experienced aerospace and technology operators and backed by leading venture investors, we ...

UAV Build & Test Technician Company: Grid.aero Location: Onsite 5 days/week [San Leandro, CA ... Led by experienced aerospace and technology operators and backed by leading venture investors, we ...

UAV Systems Specialist III

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced UAV Systems Technical Trainer to work in the ... Investigates and analyzes project requirements and operating problems and develops recommended ...

What we're looking for * 3+ years of hands-on UAS, RC, or aircraft operations experience, or equivalent military experience as a UAV operator, maintainer, or crew chief. * Demonstrated ability to set ...

What we're looking for * 3+ years of hands-on UAS, RC, or aircraft operations experience, or equivalent military experience as a UAV operator, maintainer, or crew chief. * Demonstrated ability to set ...

What we're looking for * 3+ years of hands-on UAS, RC, or aircraft operations experience, or equivalent military experience as a UAV operator, maintainer, or crew chief. * Demonstrated ability to set ...

Showing results 21-40

Uav Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$22

$52

How much do uav operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for uav operator in California is $22.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a UAV operator do?

A UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Operator is responsible for piloting drones or remotely operated aircraft for various purposes, such as surveillance, mapping, inspections, or deliveries. They plan flight paths, operate the drone systems, monitor equipment, and ensure compliance with aviation regulations. UAV Operators may work in fields like agriculture, construction, law enforcement, or filmmaking, and they often analyze the data or footage collected during flights. Proper training and certification are usually required to operate UAVs professionally and safely.

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

To thrive as a UAV Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of aviation regulations, often supported by a relevant certification such as an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Familiarity with UAV flight control systems, GPS navigation software, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring safe, efficient UAV operations and for delivering accurate data or services in various industries.

What are some common challenges UAV operators face when coordinating with ground teams during missions?

UAV Operators often work closely with ground teams to ensure mission objectives are met efficiently and safely. One common challenge is maintaining clear and consistent communication, especially in dynamic environments where mission parameters can change rapidly. Operators must be adept at interpreting real-time data and relaying critical information to ground personnel, sometimes under tight time constraints. Additionally, synchronizing UAV flight paths with ground team movements requires strong situational awareness and adaptability to avoid operational conflicts.

What is the difference between Uav Operator vs Drone Pilot?

AspectUav OperatorDrone Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107 certification often requiredFAA Part 107 certification typically required
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, construction, agriculture, surveillanceAerial photography, videography, inspections
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, private companies, militaryMedia companies, real estate, film production

Both Uav Operators and Drone Pilots often hold FAA Part 107 certification and work in similar environments. However, Uav Operators tend to focus more on operational control and data collection in industrial or surveillance settings, while Drone Pilots often specialize in aerial photography and videography for media or real estate. The roles overlap significantly, but the context of work and industry focus can differ.

Do UAV operators make a lot of money?

UAV (drone) operators can earn a wide range of salaries depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $40,000 annually, while experienced operators working in specialized fields like aerial surveying or military applications can earn over $100,000 per year. Certifications and technical skills in operating and maintaining UAVs can also influence earning potential.

Is there a demand for UAV operators?

UAV operators are in increasing demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, and surveillance due to the growing use of drones for data collection and inspection. Employers seek skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of drone regulations, and job opportunities are expanding as drone technology becomes more integrated into various sectors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Uav Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Uav Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Uav Operator jobs in California?

For Uav Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Uav Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Uav Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Uav Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Uav Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Uav Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,348 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Field Service Representative - Site Lead

AeroVironment, Inc.

Petaluma, CA • On-site

$27 - $42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


AeroVironment rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Worker Type
Regular
Job Description
Summary:
The Field Service Representative Site Lead (SL) is responsible for overseeing daily operations at both Maritime and Land Based deployed sites, in support of Medium UAS (MUAS) Jump20 program and other special programs. The SL will daily interact with customer leads and is expected to professionally balance meeting mission needs, contractual requirements and customer expectations. This position will supervise all Jump20 FSR's onsite and is accountable for all onsite operations. The SL is responsible for assisting in development of site specific standard operating procedures and for maintaining those standards for the duration of the deployment.
Deployment rotations are typically 5 months on site and 2 months off site. There are very little to no job requirements during the time off between deployments and Site Leads can live anywhere they choose.
Position Responsibilities
  • Responsible for day-to-day operations on site to include
  • COMSEC program.
  • HAZMAT program.
  • Air and ground safety programs.
  • Quality assurance.
  • All air operations and upholding flight standards and discipline.
  • Scheduling of flights to meet mission objective.
  • Maintenance program oversight.
  • FSR mentorship and evaluation.
  • All inventory controls to include government furnished property (GFP), high value asset (HVA), and general inventories.
  • Be the primary point of contact with customer/user.
  • Providing briefings on operations (Pre and Post Flight) and site status to the local customer.
  • Cultivate a professional, cohesive team site environment leading to efficient and affective operations.
  • Daily, weekly, monthly reports as required.
  • Report any deficiencies or issues to maintain the mission readiness rate of the deployed site.
  • Other duties; as assigned, to meet operational intent of the deployed site.
  • Potential to assist in other internal AV duties (IRAD, Training, FAT, etc) on a non-standard basis.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills and Experience)
  • Previous OCONUS unmanned systems operations experience
  • 5+ years' experience in planning and leading operations in a supervisory role.
  • Able to demonstrate leadership qualities necessary to brief Senior Operations leadership and maintain a cohesive atmosphere among site personnel.
  • Knowledge of military organizational dynamics
  • AVO - UAV operator experience (1000 hours).
  • MECH -- VTOL UAV experience (3 Years). Rotor exp (3 years). FAA Airframe and Powerplant license preferred.
  • Able to qualify for and maintain FAA Class II Medical Certificate
  • Demonstrated leadership and communication skills.
  • Special Operations experience is preferred.
  • Site Lead experience in support of Tier I special forces preferred

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated people managements and leadership qualities
  • Possess outstanding interpersonal skills, be self-motivated, and work without supervision.
  • Bachelor's degree in related area and/or 5 years past experience in manned and/or unmanned aviation either fixed wing or rotorcraft.
  • Be available to do extended OCONUS travel for 5-month deployments.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to speak, read, and write English
  • Able to pass medical screening, and background investigation
  • Ability to lift 35 to 100 pounds
  • Ability to travel OCONUS
  • Ability to obtain pass Class 2 Medical Assessment
  • Ability to live on Maritime Vessels (upholding a standard of physical and emotional fitness).

Special Requirements:
  • U.S. Citizen required, per ITAR definition, and contract requirements.
  • Active Secret or TS level clearance.
  • Employment is contingent upon meeting all medical requirements for overseas assignment.
  • Ability to apply and setup GOVT accounts for maintaining communications on the high side.

Clearance Level
Secret
The salary range for this role is:
$27 - $42
AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.
ITAR Requirement:
This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.
Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.
We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.
Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.
About AV:
AV isn't for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.
We don't just build defense technology-we redefine what's possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.
Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we're not building history, we're building what's next.
If you're ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there's no better place to do it than AV.
We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.
ITAR
U.S. Citizenship is required. Secret or Top Secret clearance, or the ability obtain a clearance is desired.

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