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Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Technician I

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$38K - $56K/yr

This position under supervision, is responsible for assembly, test, and repair of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in accordance with technical specifications, engineering instructions and technical ...

General Atomics

Technician II

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$44K - $66K/yr

This position under supervision, is responsible for assembly, test, and repair of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in accordance with technical specifications, engineering instructions and technical ...

General Atomics

Technician III

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$56K - $83K/yr

This position under supervision, is responsible for assembly, test, and repair of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in accordance with technical specifications, engineering instructions and technical ...

General Atomics

Technician II

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$44K - $66K/yr

This position under supervision, is responsible for assembly, test, and repair of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in accordance with technical specifications, engineering instructions and technical ...

Lumicity

Battery Engineer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Hunt Valley, MD đź’Ľ Job Type: Full-time, On-site My client is a dynamic company in the clean energy and battery manufacturing industry dedicated to the aerospace & defense, unmanned aerial vehicles ...

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How much do unmanned aerial vehicles jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for unmanned aerial vehicles in the United States is $66,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles?

Professionals working with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles often start their day by planning flight missions, conducting equipment checks, and reviewing weather conditions to ensure safe operations. Throughout the day, they pilot drones for various purposes such as aerial surveys, inspections, or data collection, and process the gathered information using specialized software. Collaboration with engineers, project managers, and data analysts is common to interpret results and maintain equipment. This role also involves maintaining detailed records, ensuring regulatory compliance, and troubleshooting technical issues as they arise.

What is a UAV pilot's salary?

The average salary for a UAV pilot ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Certified pilots with specialized skills in drone operation and maintenance tend to earn higher wages, especially in sectors like aerial surveying, filmmaking, and inspection services.

How do I start a career in drones?

To start a career in unmanned aerial vehicles, gain knowledge of drone technology, flight operations, and safety regulations. Obtain relevant certifications such as the FAA Part 107 license if operating commercially in the United States, and develop skills in remote piloting, maintenance, and data analysis. Practical experience through training programs or drone operation projects is also valuable.

What disqualifies you from becoming a drone pilot?

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) pilots are disqualified if they do not meet age requirements, fail to obtain the necessary remote pilot certification, have a history of criminal activity, or have medical conditions that impair their ability to operate drones safely. Additionally, failing to pass background checks or violating FAA regulations can disqualify candidates from becoming drone pilots.

What is an Unmanned Aerial Vehicles job?

An Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) job involves operating, maintaining, or developing drones for various applications, including military, commercial, and research purposes. Responsibilities may include piloting UAVs, analyzing data collected from aerial surveys, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. Professionals in this field may work in industries such as defense, agriculture, delivery services, and emergency response. Strong technical skills, knowledge of UAV systems, and adherence to safety protocols are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles position, and why are they important?

To thrive in an Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) role, you need a solid background in aeronautics, remote piloting, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree or aviation certification. Familiarity with flight control systems, mapping software, and FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for safety and coordination. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure precise UAV operations, regulatory compliance, and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

What is the highest paying drone job?

The highest paying drone jobs typically include roles such as drone pilot for aerial cinematography, infrastructure inspection, or surveying for large projects, with salaries reaching over $100,000 annually for experienced professionals. These positions often require advanced certifications, specialized skills, and the ability to operate high-end drone equipment in complex environments.
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Unmanned Aerial Vehicles jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unmanned Aerial Vehicles job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,839 per year, or $32.1 per hour.
Sr Principal Pilot Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Sr Principal Pilot Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$156K - $234K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 528 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 50% of the TimeDescription
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 is seeking a Level 4 Senior Principal Pilot Unmanned Aerial Vehicle to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals. This position will be located in Chantilly, VA
The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pilot will pilot an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) during developmental test and operational flights. Remotely pilot vehicle to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability during engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support through specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers. Defines, plans, organizes, and executes complex
flight programs and flight test events. Conducts briefings and debriefings, and coordinates with maintenance personnel to analyze and correct vehicle discrepancies. May conduct demonstration flights with customers, government officials or other personnel to exhibit vehicle performance, flying qualities and system capabilities. Must have an existing FAA Commercial Pilots Certificate (ASEL and/or AMEL) with an instrument rating.
Pilot will work in greater Washington DC area and deploy to OCONUS field locations periodically/as scheduled as part of their job responsibilities. All initial position training will be conducted at our Chantilly, VA facility (4-6 months).
Basic Qualifications:
  • 12 years of experience OR a Bachelor's Degree and 8 years of experience OR a Master's Degree and 6 years of experience
  • Must demonstrate excellent interpersonal and organizational skills as well as oral and written communication skills.
  • Must be proficient using MS Office applications and have had experience using mission planning software such as Falcon View.
  • Must be willing to work a flexible work schedule that may include extended shifts, holidays, and weekends and support on call status for 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week, 365 days a year.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a valid U.S. passport.
  • Must meet medical requirements and vaccinations for worldwide travel.
  • Must be willing to travel up to 50% of the time.
  • Must be willing to accept customer furnished quarters for a period up to 90 days away from primary work location and comply with mobility requirements.
  • Must have an FAA Commercial Pilots Certificate (ASEL and/or AMEL) and Instrument rating.
  • Must have a minimum of 1000 hours of total documented time (airplane, helicopter, powered lift)
  • Must be able to obtain a FAA 2nd Class Medical Certificate.
  • Must possess and be able to maintain a DoD Top Secret security clearance and be willing to undergo a polygraph.
  • Ability to obtain and retain Special Program access clearance within 365 days from submission.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Aviation Instructor/Evaluator experience.
  • Previous simulator instructor experience
  • Familiar with aviation technical data and training development.
  • A current SCI clearance and polygraph.
  • Previous military pilot training (including Unmanned Pilots) strongly preferred.

#MPR
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

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