ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Uav Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Sensor Operator IV

Grand Forks, ND · On-site

$65K - $99K/yr

The sensor operator will also serve as a crewmember of the UAV, assisting the Pilot-In-Command (PIC) as directed for safe operation of the aircraft to include reading checklists, assisting in ...

Shield AI

Standardization Pilot (R4736)

Dallas, TX

$130K - $200K/yr

Military background in aviation (e.g., UAV operator, pilot, or aircrew) * Instructor pilot or evaluator experience * Familiarity with FAA Part 107 and/or COA operations * Experience in test ...

Shield AI

Standardization Pilot (R4736)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

Military background in aviation (e.g., UAV operator, pilot, or aircrew) * Instructor pilot or evaluator experience * Familiarity with FAA Part 107 and/or COA operations * Experience in test ...

General Atomics

Field Avionics Technician III

Killeen, TX · On-site

$59K - $90K/yr

Interfaces with engineering, manufacturing, and other disciplines of UAV operators, Army personnel and civilian customers when required. * Assists in the troubleshooting, component removal and ...

New

Shield AI

Standardization Pilot (R4736)

Dallas, TX

$130K - $200K/yr

Military background in aviation (e.g., UAV operator, pilot, or aircrew) * Instructor pilot or evaluator experience * Familiarity with FAA Part 107 and/or COA operations * Experience in test ...

Grid Aero

UAV Build & Test Technician

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUav Operator Jobs

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.
More about Uav Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Uav Operator jobs? Cities with the most Uav Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Uav Operator jobs? The most popular types of Uav Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Uav Operator jobs? The top employers for Uav Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Uav Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Uav Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Uav Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Uav Operator jobs are:
Uav Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution.
Sensor Operator IV

Sensor Operator IV

General Atomics

Grand Forks, ND • On-site

$65K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 37 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.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for an experienced MQ-9 LRE Sensor Operator to join our Aero Services Division. Employees can live in any state but must be able to deploy both CONUS and OCONUS in support of company projects. Employees in this role enjoy a Flex deployment rotation schedule of roughly 12-16 weeks working and 12 weeks off while maintaining full benefits. Flex employees work only while deployed or in a training status and receive competitive deployment compensation.
Under general direction, this position is responsible for the operation of the sensor/payload on the UAV during all phases of ground and flight operations. The sensor operator will also serve as a crewmember of the UAV, assisting the Pilot-In-Command (PIC) as directed for safe operation of the aircraft to include reading checklists, assisting in emergencies and effective crew resource management. The sensor operator will assist the PIC with mission planning, briefing, mission execution, ground and flight safety and debriefing. The SO will also provide academic and in-flight instruction.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Assists the PIC in ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and safety.
  • Operate the payload of the UAV, on the ground and in flight, in support of customer requirements and successful execution of the mission.
  • May participate in production flight test of Company and government aircraft.
  • May participate in the preparation and presentation of continuation training of aircraft systems, mission support and deployed operations.
  • Instruct UAV student SOs in ground and flight operations and/or be qualified in multiple aircraft.
  • Assist the PIC in complying with all governing regulations including service guidance, company procedures and Federal Aviation Administration Regulations.
  • 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.
  • Additional Functions Other duties as assigned or required.

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 or formal training equivalent to the completion of a High School diploma or equivalent and five or more years of experience (or 1,000+ hours) in UAV operations or aviation. Equivalent professional or military experience in UAV or aviation may be substituted in lieu of education.
  • Must demonstrate an extensive understanding of UAV and FAA principles, theories and concepts.
Must also possess:
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a customer specific security clearance;
  • Detailed understanding of UAVs, tactical reconnaissance and aviation principles;
  • Excellent analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to accurately interface with all levels of employees and military and civilian customers, contractors and aircrew; and detailed 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.
  • Ability to obtain an FAA Class II medical certificate. 500+ hours in UAV operations or aviation.
  • Ability to obtain a DOD secret clearance as well as customer specific clearances(s).
  • Ability to travel CONUS and OCONUS;
  • 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.

What General Atomics employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

General Atomics logo

About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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

View All General Atomics Jobs

Apply