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Uav Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

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Operate or supervise the use of GPS/GNSS, robotic total stations, digital levels, UAV/drone mapping ... Mentor Survey Technicians, Instrument Operators, Crew Chiefs, and Survey Interns. * Ensure ...

Be Seen First

Operate or supervise the use of GPS/GNSS, robotic total stations, digital levels, UAV/drone mapping ... Mentor Survey Technicians, Instrument Operators, Crew Chiefs, and Survey Interns. * Ensure ...

Uav Operator information

See Utah salary details

$9

$20

$47

How much do uav operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for uav operator in Utah is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.75 and $19.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Utah? For Uav Operator jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Uav Operator job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,704 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

UAV Manufacturing Technician

Rainmaker Technology Corporation

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Rainmaker is pioneering a modern cloud seeding system to solve water scarcity and inclement weather problems. We develop and incorporate radar validation, weather-resistant UAS, numerical weather modeling, and sustainable cloud seeds into an effective precipitation enhancement solution.

The Production team at Rainmaker builds our UAS platforms, assembles dispersion payloads, and integrates in-situ/remote sensing systems into every vehicle we deliver. If you are interested in working in an extremely innovative and fast-paced environment, where your work directly makes an impact and ensures mission success in the field, this is a fantastic opportunity. 
What You'll Do
  • Manufacture, assemble, inspect, and dynamically balance aircraft propellers in accordance with approved work instructions and quality standards.

  • Inspect, clean, mask, conformally coat, and document printed circuit boards using proper ESD controls.

  • Operate 3D printers, laser cutters, and related fabrication equipment to produce and finish aircraft components.

  • Receive, label, store, issue, transfer, and track aircraft parts and materials in Rainmaker's inventory system.

  • Kit and stage complete sets of components for aircraft production and operational needs.

  • Perform cycle counts, investigate discrepancies, and maintain proper control of conforming, quarantined, nonconforming, and work-in-process materials.

  • Receive and inspect inbound shipments; package, document, and coordinate outbound shipments.

  • Identify and communicate quality issues, shortages, equipment problems, and material risks.

  • Maintain clean, safe, organized, and FOD-controlled work areas.

  • Support additional manufacturing, quality, inventory, and logistics priorities as needed.

Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • At least two years of experience in manufacturing, assembly, quality inspection, inventory, shipping and receiving, electronics, or a similar hands-on technical environment.

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with tools, adhesives, fixtures, equipment, and detailed manufacturing processes.

  • Ability to follow written work instructions and consistently complete repetitive, detail-oriented work.

  • Strong attention to part numbers, quantities, revisions, measurements, workmanship, and documentation.

  • Basic computer skills and the ability to learn inventory, manufacturing, and shipping systems.

  • Strong communication, organization, and time-management skills.

  • Ability to work independently and shift between manufacturing, inventory, quality, and logistics responsibilities.

  • Ability to stand for extended periods and regularly lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

  • Ability to work full-time onsite in Salt Lake City.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with composite components, adhesives, fixtures, or precision assemblies.

  • Experience inspecting, cleaning, masking, or conformally coating PCBAs.

  • Familiarity with ESD controls and electronic-component handling.

  • Experience operating FDM or SLA 3D printers.

  • Experience operating a laser cutter or similar fabrication equipment.

  • Experience using inventory management, ERP, or manufacturing execution systems.

$25 - $30 an hour
  • Significant stock options with high potential upside as an early-stage company
  • 401(k) with employer matching
  • Full health coverage (medical, dental, and vision insurance)
  • Relocation assistance provided (if applicable)
  • Unlimited PTO 
  • Paid parental leave for both parents
  • Lunch provided when working in-office and a fully stocked kitchenette
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