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Uav Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Atwell, LLC

Assistant Crew Chief

Port Charlotte, FL · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Record field notes legibly and accurately while following the Atwell established Standard Operating ... Proficiency in conducting UAV surveys and processing point cloud data is preferred. Knowledge of ...

Atwell, LLC

Assistant Crew Chief

Port Charlotte, FL · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Record field notes legibly and accurately while following the Atwell established Standard Operating ... Proficiency in conducting UAV surveys and processing point cloud data is preferred. Knowledge of ...

Atwell, LLC

Assistant Crew Chief

Port Charlotte, FL

$16 - $20.75/hr

Record field notes legibly and accurately while following the Atwell established Standard Operating ... Proficiency in conducting UAV surveys and processing point cloud data is preferred. Knowledge of ...

AeroVironment

Product Engineer II

Melbourne, FL

... UAV systems and commercial applications.Includes design modifications of structural components ... Coordinates the release and update of engineering design documentation, operator manuals, bill of ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

Product Engineer II

Melbourne, FL · On-site

... UAV systems and commercial applications. Includes design modifications of structural components ... Coordinates the release and update of engineering design documentation, operator manuals, bill of ...

Audubon

Seasonal Conservation Assistant

Naples, FL · On-site

$19/hr

Operating as part of the Audubon Florida state program, the Sanctuary unites visitor and education ... UAV and manned fixed-wing aircraft), completing herpetofauna surveys, vegetation surveys, and ...

Parsons

UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) control software and ground control stations. * Mission planning and ... The role ensures the UxSAI engineers, test personnel, and operators have the equipment ...

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Uav Operator information

Is there a demand for drone operators?

Demand for UAV operators is growing across industries such as agriculture, construction, film, and inspection services due to increased use of drone technology. Employers seek skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of FAA regulations, and job opportunities are expanding as drone applications become more widespread.

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.

What is an UAV operator?

A UAV operator is a professional responsible for flying and managing unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones. They operate the aircraft using remote controls or onboard software, often requiring certification and knowledge of safety protocols, navigation, and data collection. UAV operators work in industries such as photography, surveying, agriculture, and defense, often following strict regulations and safety standards.

What is a UAV pilot's salary?

The salary of a UAV pilot typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Certified pilots with specialized skills in drone operation and FAA certifications tend to earn higher wages, especially in sectors like aerial surveying, filmmaking, or inspection services.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a UAV Operator, and why are they important?

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.

Do drone operators get paid well?

UAV operators, or drone pilots, can earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced operators working in sectors like film, agriculture, or defense can earn higher wages, often supplemented by certifications and specialized skills.

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 popular job titles related to Uav Operator jobs in Florida? For Uav Operator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Uav Operator jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Uav Operator jobs in Florida are:
Uav Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav Operator job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Mechanical Engineer V/VI

Mechanical Engineer V/VI

Zone 5 Technologies

Fort Walton Beach, FL

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

We're looking for a Mechanical Engineer V/VI for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) which is a senior-level role responsible for leading the design, development, and implementation of advanced mechanical systems for UAVs. This position involves strategic oversight, innovative problem-solving, and mentorship of junior engineers. Engineers in this role will contribute to cutting-edge advancements in UAS technologies, driving innovation in areas such as autonomous systems, additive manufacturing, and aerospace materials.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Design Leadership: Lead the design of complex mechanical systems for UAVs, including advanced airframes, propulsion systems, and payload integration.

  • Advanced Prototyping and Testing: Oversee the development and testing of UAV prototypes, ensuring compliance with performance and reliability goals.

  • Comprehensive Structural Analysis: Conduct and review in-depth stress, strain, and fatigue analysis for UAV mechanical systems operating under extreme conditions.

  • Thermal Management Expertise: Develop and implement innovative thermal systems for high-performance UAVs.

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Lead collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to integrate mechanical systems with avionics, sensors, and software controls.

  • Material Innovation: Drive research and development of advanced materials for UAV applications, focusing on composites and lightweight alloys.

  • Failure Analysis and Solutions: Lead root cause analysis of mechanical failures and propose long-term, impactful solutions.

  • Regulatory Compliance Leadership: Ensure all designs meet and exceed UAS regulations and industry certifications.

  • Research and Development: Spearhead R&D initiatives to advance UAS technologies, including autonomous navigation and advanced manufacturing techniques.

  • Mentorship and Leadership: Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior and mid-level engineers, fostering professional growth within the team.

  • Documentation and Reporting: Author comprehensive technical documentation, including design reviews, test reports, and compliance certifications.

Qualifications:

  • Education: Bachelor's, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering degree or equivalent experience.
  • Experience: 10+ years of experience in engineering roles.

Skills:

  • Advanced proficiency in CAD and mechanical design software (e.g., SolidWorks)
  • Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and drafting
  • Experience with design for manufacturability (DFMA) and tooling design
  • Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and other advanced simulation tools
  • Experience in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, structural mechanics, and aerodynamics
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving skills, and ability to mentor 
  • Proven ability to drive innovation and manage complex engineering projects 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Above experience including 5 years dedicated to UAV development
  • Advanced proficiency in CAD primarily for aerospace and UAS applications
  • Experience with advanced simulation tools (e.g. FEA, CFD)
  • Expertise in structural mechanics, aerodynamics, thermodynamics
  • In depth knowledge of UAV manufacturing processes, including 3D printing and advanced composite materials.
  • Familiarity with advanced UAV-specific regulations and broader aerospace certification processes (e.g., DO-160, AS9100).


Pay Range by level for Fort Walton Beach, FL:

Level V - $160k - $191k
Level VI - $191k - $207k

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