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Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator information

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How much do unmanned aerial vehicle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for unmanned aerial vehicle operator in the United States is $23.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unmanned aerial vehicle operator?

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Operators are professionals trained to control and operate drones or remotely piloted aircraft. They are responsible for planning flight paths, launching, navigating, and recovering UAVs for a variety of purposes, such as surveillance, mapping, photography, or military missions. UAV Operators must have a good understanding of airspace regulations, weather conditions, and safety protocols. Their work is essential in industries including defense, agriculture, construction, and emergency response.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an unmanned aerial vehicle operator?

To thrive as an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Operator, you need strong technical knowledge of UAV systems, flight operations, and a relevant certification such as the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation, and aerial imaging tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing operations and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are vital for safe, efficient, and compliant UAV missions across various industries.

What are some typical challenges unmanned aerial vehicle operators face in the field, and how can they be managed?

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, managing airspace regulations, and troubleshooting technical issues with the UAV. Effective communication with team members, thorough pre-flight checks, and staying updated on the latest FAA rules help mitigate these challenges. Additionally, practicing emergency procedures and maintaining strong situational awareness are essential for ensuring safe and successful UAV operations.

What is the difference between Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator vs Drone Pilot?

AspectUnmanned Aerial Vehicle OperatorDrone Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot CertificateFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, commercial, government sitesFilming, photography, inspections
Industry UsageSurveying, agriculture, securityMedia production, real estate

Both roles require FAA Part 107 certification and involve operating drones in various industries. An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator typically works in industrial or government settings, focusing on surveying, inspections, or security. A Drone Pilot often works in media, real estate, or entertainment, focusing on filming and photography. While their skills overlap, their primary applications and work environments differ.

Do unmanned aerial vehicle operators get paid well?

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced operators with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in sectors like defense, agriculture, or surveying.

Is there a big demand for unmanned aerial vehicle operators?

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators are in increasing demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, and defense, driven by advancements in drone technology and applications. The job market for UAV operators is expected to grow as organizations seek skilled pilots with certifications and knowledge of FAA regulations and drone operation tools.
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Infographic showing various Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,725 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Sr Principal Pilot - Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Lexington Park, MD • On-site

Northrop Grumman
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

$156K - $234K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Remotely pilot the Triton UAV to conduct engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support.

  • Define, plan, organize, and execute complex flight profiles and test events to support program milestones.

  • Conduct briefings and debriefings, coordinate with maintenance personnel to analyze and correct vehicle discrepancies, and act as NATOPS Instructor or Examiner as required.


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 372 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.

Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Sr.

Principal Pilot - Unmanned Air Vehicle to join the team of qualified individuals. Position is located in Naval Air Station Patuxent River, MD. This is a work onsite position, located at Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River, MD with occasional travel to support Production operations in Palmdale, CA.

Help shape the future of unmanned maritime ISR as the Sr. Principal Pilot (AVO) on the MQ-4C Triton Integrated Test Team (ITT) at Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems. From NAS Patuxent River, you will lead developmental and operational flight efforts that validate Triton performance and directly support mission readiness and national security.

This opportunity is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment with diverse test assignments and high expectations. Key Responsibilities: Remotely pilot Triton UAV to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability during engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support through specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers Define, plan, organize and execute complex flight profiles and flight test events in support of program milestones Conduct briefings and debriefings, and coordinate with maintenance personnel to analyze and correct vehicle discrepancies Act as NATOPS Instructor or Examiner as required Must successfully complete company UAV operator training and qualification program and receive GFR certification We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.

Basic Qualifications: Must have a Bachelor of Science AND 8 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Master's degree AND 6 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Ph.D. AND 4 years of related professional/military experience. Must have an active US Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation)

Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance, within a reasonable amount of time as determined by business needs. Current FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating and a minimum of 500 flight hours as pilot-in-command of a manned aircraft Must have at least 250 hours PC/PIC time in UAV/UAS (not in SUAS) or 150 hours in MQ-4. Current Class II or higher FAA medical certificate Must be willing to obtain and maintain the appropriate medical clearance(s), as defined per the customer's contracting requirements, for the duration of your employment.

Must be willing to obtain and maintain all training qualifications, as needed per the customer's contracting requirements, for the duration of your employment. Preferred Qualifications: Degree in Aviation or Aerospace Test Pilot School graduate P-3 or P-8 Military Flight Experience Qualified Global Hawk or Triton UAS Pilot 200 hours of PC/PIC time during engineering flight test, and 10 hours during experimental flight test. 1,000 flight hours as pilot-in-command of a manned aircraft 700 hours PC/PIC time in UAV/UAS (not in SUAS) or 150 hours in MQ-4.

Primary Level Salary Range: $156,400.00 - $234,600.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results

Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date.

However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO

U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.


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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939