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Uav Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

AeroVironment

OR

Experience as a pilot, aircrew member, or UAV operator would be beneficial * Understanding of aircraft mishap investigation methodologies and root cause analysis techniques * Experience developing ...

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 ...

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 ...

Grid Aero

UAV Build & Test Technician

San Leandro, CA · On-site

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 ...

Grid Aero

UAV Build & Test Technician

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$90 - $110/hr

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 ...

WGS SYSTEMS LLC

Flight Test Technician

Hagerstown, MD

$65K - $95K/yr

USMC: 26-series (SIGINT), 63/64-series (Avionics), 02-series (Intel), or 7314 (UAV Operator). * Flight Physical: Ability to pass a standard FAA Class III flight physical (or military equivalent) to ...

WGS SYSTEMS LLC

Flight Test Technician

Hagerstown, MD

$65K - $95K/yr

USMC: 26-series (SIGINT), 63/64-series (Avionics), 02-series (Intel), or 7314 (UAV Operator). * Flight Physical: Ability to pass a standard FAA Class III flight physical (or military equivalent) to ...

General Atomics

UAV Systems Specialist IV

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$98K - $171K/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 ...

WGS SYSTEMS LLC

Flight Test Technician

Hagerstown, MD

$65K - $95K/yr

USMC: 26-series (SIGINT), 63/64-series (Avionics), 02-series (Intel), or 7314 (UAV Operator). * Flight Physical: Ability to pass a standard FAA Class III flight physical (or military equivalent) to ...

Valcourt

Drone Operator (71452)

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Drone Pilot Operator / Window Cleaning Work Schedule: * Monday to Friday (Saturday and worknights ... Must have an active FAA part 107 UAV license. * Must have reliable transportation (local travel ...

Valcourt

Drone Operator (71090)

Chicago, IL

$25 - $30/hr

Drone Pilot Operator / Window Cleaning Work Schedule: * Monday to Friday (Saturday and worknights ... Must have an active FAA part 107 UAV license. * Must have reliable transportation (local travel ...

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Uav Operator information

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$10

$22

$53

How much do uav operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for uav operator in the United States is $22.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.
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Uav Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Full Time, 94% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,331 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

UAV Integration Technician

Rainmaker Technology Corporation

El Segundo, CA

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

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

  • Assemble and perform tests on UAVs

  • Perform harness integration and electrical assemblies

  • Support field operations and maintenance protocols

  • Perform quality control on incoming materials and finished assemblies

  • Support production scaling and process improvement

Required Qualifications

  • 2–6+ years of hands-on experience in UAV, aerospace, robotics, Integration and full scale manufacturing

  • Strong experience with mechanical assembly and electrical integration

  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and schematics

  • Experience troubleshooting complex systems (mechanical and electrical)

  • Willingness to travel and support field operations and flight testing

  • Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship

  • Able to work independently and take ownership of tasks

  • Comfortable operating in fast-paced, evolving environments

  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs regularly

  • Familiarity with basic shop safety procedures

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in MIG and TIG welding

  • Familiarity with the use of 3D printers

  • Familiarity with the use of Torque drivers, Power supplies, Multimeters etc 

  • Experience machining on 3 and 5 axis machines

  • Part 107 certification

$30 - $35 plus Over-Time and equityÂ