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Uav Operator Jobs in Fishers, IN (NOW HIRING)

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Uav Operator information

See Fishers, IN salary details

$10

$21

$49

How much do uav operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for uav operator in Fishers, IN is $21.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.28 and $20.22 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.
Uav Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav Operator job openings in Fishers, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,240 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Survey Crew Chief

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

HANNUM WAGLE & CLINE ENGINEERING INC
See more jobs at HANNUM WAGLE & CLINE ENGINEERING INCexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

*This position will report to our Indianapolis, IN office.


HWC Engineering is currently seeking an energetic, adaptable, and solution-oriented person who will be able to take and follow instructions but also be able to think independently, as a Survey Crew Chief. The ideal candidate will be able to work autonomously and remotely and lead a field crew performing boundary, topography, ALTA, right of way, and construction surveys for public and private clients on large energy and transportation projects.

HWC Engineering’s Survey Department works closely with other departments to provide quality deliverables for projects across all our engineering related public and private clients. We offer a full range of survey and geospatial data and mapping services that enable us to collect data faster, safer, and more accurately than ever before. 

WHAT YOU’LL DO 

  • Fieldwork Leadership: Lead and oversee a surveying crew in the performance of field surveys, ALTA/NSPS land title, boundary marking, topographic mapping, and other surveying tasks.
  • Data Collection: Operate surveying equipment, including total stations, GPS receivers, and data collectors, to accurately measure and record survey data. 
  • Quality Control: Ensure the data collected meets quality and accuracy standards, making necessary adjustments and re-measurements as required.
  • Project Planning: Assist in the planning and scheduling of surveying projects, considering factors like weather conditions, equipment maintenance, and resource allocation. 
  • Safety: Enforce safety protocols and best practices in the field to maintain a safe working environment for the crew. 
  • Client Interaction: Communicate with clients on-site to address any concerns or questions, fostering positive client relationships. 
  • Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of survey data, field notes, and equipment maintenance. 
  • Crew Training: Provide guidance and training to surveying technicians to improve their skills and ensure consistent data collection practices. 
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance on surveying equipment to ensure its proper functioning. 

WHAT YOU NEED

  • Experience with Robotic Total Station and data collection.
  • Experience with RTK GPS.
  • Ability to work alone and with other employees.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • 2+ years of land surveying experience as a crew chief/party chief or 5+ years of experience as an instrument operator 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience with AutoCAD
  • UAV license 

Why Work with Us

At HWC Engineering, our foundation is built upon a vibrant culture that celebrates diversity, collaboration, and innovation. We believe in creating an environment where every individual feels valued, supported, and inspired to thrive. 

  • The strength of our company lies in the well-being & growth of our employees. That's why we prioritize professional development, providing avenues for continuous learning & career advancement.
  • Our culture isn't just a statement; it's the fabric that binds us together, guiding us as we navigate challenges, celebrate successes, & create a workplace where everyone feels empowered to excel. We are humbled to have been named a Best Place to Work in Indiana by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce from 2016 – 2026; 11 years in a row!
  • Collaboration is more than a buzzword for us; it's ingrained in our DNA. Teamwork is at the core of our success, and we celebrate the achievements of each member, knowing that our collective efforts lead to exceptional outcomes.
  • Embrace freedom! We promote work life balance with tailored schedules & flexible work environment with remote, hybrid in-office, and/or full-time in office workspaces offered dependent upon position / situation (and ability to work from home). 
  • Experience an exceptional salary package with performance-driven bonuses and recognition that outshines the rest!


ABOUT HWC

HWC Engineering is a full-service consulting engineering firm that provides water, wastewater, stormwater, transportation, inspection, site engineering, survey, landscape architecture and planning services to both the public and private sectors.

Founded in 1989 in Terre Haute, Indiana, HWC has additional offices in Indianapolis, Lafayette, Muncie, North Vernon, Hammond and New Albany, allowing us to provide professional engineering services to clients throughout Indiana and the Midwest.

HWC is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) that does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, age, gender or any status protected by federal, state or local laws. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, competence and performance.

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