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Uav Payload Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UAV Ground Support Crew Member

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Prepare and load payloads for each flight; verify order accuracy and packaging integrity at the ... Complete Operator certification and all required recurrent training to maintain active status ...

Prepare and load payloads for each flight; verify order accuracy and packaging integrity at the ... Complete Operator certification and all required recurrent training to maintain active status ...

UAV Ground Support Crew Member

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Prepare and load payloads for each flight; verify order accuracy and packaging integrity at the ... Complete Operator certification and all required recurrent training to maintain active status ...

V-BAT Air Vehicle Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $27/hr

... payload mass friction. It can fly for a half day or stop and hover for hours on end. Most ... Bat UAV platform. They will provide regular and insightful feedback to flight test engineers ...

V-BAT Air Vehicle Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$56K - $168K/yr

... payload mass friction. It can fly for a half day or stop and hover for hours on end. Most ... Bat UAV platform. They will provide regular and insightful feedback to flight test engineers ...

V-BAT Air Vehicle Operator

Dallas, TX

$21.50 - $27/hr

... payload mass friction. It can fly for a half day or stop and hover for hours on end. Most ... Bat UAV platform. They will provide regular and insightful feedback to flight test engineers ...

Systems Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$146K - $194K/yr

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Layout system design plans and interfaces for new UAV products and platforms * Manage tactical ...

Production Technician

Cedar City, UT · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

... payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems. The ... The role helps maintain workflow by following established procedures, operating equipment as ...

Chief Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$191K - $253K/yr

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Conduct hands-on UAV testing with occasional travel REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS * 7-10 years of ...

Assistant Crew Chief

Port Charlotte, FL · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Proficiency in conducting UAV surveys and processing point cloud data is preferred. Knowledge of ... photogrammetry payloads is desirable. Disclaimer While AI tools may support your application ...

Showing results 41-60

Uav Payload Operator information

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$10

$38

$76

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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What are the most commonly searched types of Uav Payload Operator jobs?

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States with the most job openings for Uav Payload Operator jobs include:

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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.

Senior Electrical Engineer

Freedom Flight Works

San Diego, CA • On-site

$114K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Aerospace Electrical Engineer with extensive expertise in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to lead and innovate within our engineering team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in guidance systems, servo control, rugged design, design assurance, verification testing, and quality control, coupled with proven leadership and mentoring skills. This role demands hands-on technical proficiency and the ability to guide multidisciplinary teams in delivering high-performance electrical systems for aerospace applications.

Key Responsibilities

  • System Design and Innovation: Lead the design and development of advanced electrical systems for UAVs, including guidance systems, servo control mechanisms, and power management solutions, ensuring alignment with mission-critical requirements.
  • Rugged Design: Oversee the development of durable electrical components and systems engineered to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, vibrations, and electromagnetic interference.
  • Guidance Systems: Direct the integration of sophisticated guidance and navigation systems, incorporating sensors, GPS, and inertial navigation units, to achieve precise and reliable UAV performance.
  • Servo Control: Spearhead the design and optimization of servo control systems for precise actuation and stabilization of UAV components, such as control surfaces, gimbals, and payloads.
  • Design Assurance: Establish and enforce design assurance processes to ensure compliance with aerospace standards (e.g., DO-160, DO-254, MIL-STD), driving reliability and safety in all designs.
  • Verification Testing: Develop and lead comprehensive verification and validation testing strategies, overseeing test execution to confirm system performance, durability, and compliance under simulated and operational conditions.
  • Quality Leadership: Collaborate with quality assurance teams to define and uphold rigorous quality standards, leading root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions to maintain product excellence.
  • Hands-On Expertise: Actively participate in prototyping, troubleshooting, and system integration, leveraging hands-on skills to resolve complex technical challenges and validate designs.
  • Team Leadership and Mentorship: Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering technical growth and collaboration while leading cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones and objectives.
  • Documentation and Compliance: Oversee the creation of detailed technical documentation, including schematics, test plans, and compliance reports, to support design reviews, certifications, and regulatory approvals.

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field; Master’s degree strongly preferred.
  • Experience:
    • Minimum of 8 years of experience in aerospace electrical engineering, with at least 5 years focused on UAV systems.
    • Demonstrated expertise in guidance systems, servo control, ruggedized design, and verification testing.
    • Proven leadership experience, including managing teams and mentoring engineers.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Advanced proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., Altium Designer, Cadence) for circuit design and PCB layout.
    • Expertise in embedded systems, microcontrollers, and real-time operating systems.
    • In-depth knowledge of aerospace standards (e.g., DO-178C, DO-254, MIL-STD-810).
    • Proficiency with test equipment, including oscilloscopes, signal analyzers, and environmental test chambers.
  • Leadership Skills:
    • Strong ability to lead and inspire technical teams, manage projects, and drive innovation.
    • Excellent communication skills to collaborate with stakeholders and present complex technical information clearly.
    • Proven mentoring skills to develop junior engineers and foster a culture of excellence.
  • Soft Skills:
    • Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills with a focus on quality and precision.
    • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Extensive experience with UAV flight control systems, autopilot integration, and sensor fusion.
  • Familiarity with FAA and international certification processes for UAVs.
  • Background in designing fault-tolerant and redundant systems for high-reliability aerospace applications.
  • Prior experience leading successful product development cycles from concept to deployment.

Company Description

Freedom Flight Works is a development sandbox for creative designers. Seeking motivated individuals to conquer the challenges of building cutting-edge aerospace systems with a focus on precision, reliability, and performance.
Developing powered parafoil autonomous air vehicle products with the intent to transitioning to production. Expect exciting technical challenges in a fast-paced rewarding environment. This is an extremely challenging and rewarding opportunity for highly motivated and productive individuals.