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Uav Payload 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 ... Operate the payload of the UAV, on the ground and in flight, in support of customer requirements ...

General Atomics

Sensor Operator IV

North Las Vegas, NV · On-site

The sensor operator will also serve as a crewmember of the UAV, assisting the Pilot-In-Command (PIC ... Operate the payload of the UAV, on the ground and in flight, in support of customer requirements ...

General Atomics

Sensor Operator IV

North Las Vegas, NV · On-site

The sensor operator will also serve as a crewmember of the UAV, assisting the Pilot-In-Command (PIC ... Operate the payload of the UAV, on the ground and in flight, in support of customer requirements ...

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How much do uav payload operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for uav payload operator in the United States is $38.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $62.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a UAV payload operator?

A UAV Payload Operator is responsible for controlling and managing the sensors, cameras, and other payload systems on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). They work alongside UAV pilots to capture data, conduct surveillance, or complete specialized missions such as mapping, inspection, or reconnaissance. Their role requires expertise in operating payload systems, analyzing collected data, and ensuring mission objectives are met efficiently.

What are the typical daily tasks for a UAV payload operator, and how does the role interact with other team members?

A UAV Payload Operator is typically responsible for configuring and operating the payload on unmanned aerial vehicles, monitoring sensor output, conducting pre-flight checks, and ensuring data is accurately collected and recorded. Daily work often involves collaborating closely with UAV pilots, mission planners, and data analysts to achieve specific project goals and troubleshoot any in-flight issues. Operators may also be required to document mission results and report on payload performance. The role often calls for flexibility, adaptability, and strong teamwork, especially during field operations or time-sensitive projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the UAV payload operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a UAV Payload Operator, you need a solid understanding of unmanned aerial vehicle systems, remote sensing, and payload integration, often backed by technical training or equivalent certifications. Familiarity with UAV control software, GPS navigation systems, and payload-specific equipment (such as cameras or sensors) is essential, and FAA Part 107 certification is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, accurate operation, optimal data collection, and efficient teamwork in diverse and often dynamic environments.

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Uav Payload Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav Payload Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,047 per year, or $38 per hour.

UAV Robotics Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you driven by robotics and autonomous system development?
Do you enjoy hands-on design, integration, and testing of Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)?
Are you interested in applying your skills to meaningful projects that advance the state of uncrewed and autonomous systems?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We are seeking a UAV Robotics Engineer to help conceive, design, fabricate, integrate, and test a variety of novel UAV systems and payloads. In this role, you will contribute directly to the development of advanced autonomous capabilities and help shape the future of uncrewed systems. You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and technicians who are passionate about rapid prototyping, system design and integration, and rigorous field testing. Our team supports critical programs that directly benefit the nation's warfighters while fostering a collaborative, innovative, and fast-paced work environment.
As a UAV Robotics Engineer, your primary responsibilities will include...
  • Designing, fabricating, integrating, and testing UAV airframes, subsystems, and payloads.
  • Designing, integrating and testing mission-critical electronics for a variety of robotic systems.
  • Planning, executing, and leading local and remote field tests, incorporating feedback from end users to inform design revisions.
  • Serving as a technical lead and mentor within a multidisciplinary engineering team.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a BS in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics or related fields.
  • Have 2+ years of relevant experience working with UAVs, UGVs, UAS, UUVs or related robotic systems.
  • Have experience with the design, integration, and flight testing of both fixed-wing and multirotor UAVs.
  • Demonstrate strong skills in:
  • Are willing and able to support local and remote field test events, including operations in harsh and austere environments.
  • Hold an active Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Hold an MS or PhD in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Have experience developing and flight-testing autonomous UAV behaviors.
  • Are comfortable working across mechanical, electrical, and software domains.
  • Have led complex UAV development efforts from concept through deployment.
  • Have integrated perception sensors such as EO/IR cameras, LiDAR, radar, or RF payloads into UAV platforms.
  • Are comfortable making real-time engineering decisions during flight and field operations.
  • Have experience operating UAVs in GPS-degraded, RF-challenged, or denied environments.
  • Have experience with a variety of UAV airframe types (e.g., multirotor, fixed-wing, VTOL, coaxial, traditional helicopter).
  • Have experience with Uncrewed Underwater, Ground or Surface Vehicles (UUV, UGV, USV).
  • Thrive in fast-paced, prototype-driven environments with evolving requirements.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$195,000 Annually

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