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How much do unmanned aerial jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for unmanned aerial in the United States is $192,837.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,500.00 and $257,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operator?

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, are aircraft that operate without a human pilot onboard. Unmanned aerial operators are professionals who control these drones remotely, using specialized equipment or software. Their responsibilities can include aerial photography, surveying land, monitoring crops, inspecting infrastructure, and supporting emergency response. They must follow aviation regulations and ensure the safe and efficient operation of the UAV in various environments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operator?

To thrive as a UAV Operator, you need expertise in remote piloting, navigation, and a solid understanding of aviation regulations, often supported by a relevant certification such as the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Familiarity with flight control software, GPS systems, and aerial imaging tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication skills help operators manage missions safely and efficiently. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe UAV operations, regulatory compliance, and the successful completion of aerial tasks in various industries.

What are common challenges faced by unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working with unmanned aerial vehicles often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing regulations, ensuring safe operation in varying weather conditions, and managing data collected during flights. Proactively keeping up-to-date with local and federal UAV laws, participating in regular training, and using advanced flight planning tools can help address these challenges. Additionally, collaborating closely with team members—such as data analysts and maintenance staff—ensures operational efficiency and data accuracy.

What is the difference between Unmanned Aerial vs Drone Operator?

AspectUnmanned AerialDrone Operator
CertificationsRemote Pilot Certificate, FAA Part 107Remote Pilot Certificate, FAA Part 107
Work EnvironmentField operations, outdoor locations, various industriesField and indoor settings, operating drones for filming, inspections
Industry UsageAerial surveying, agriculture, filmmaking, inspectionFilmmaking, photography, real estate, inspections

Unmanned Aerial and Drone Operator roles share similar certifications and work environments, often overlapping in industry applications like surveying and filming. However, 'Unmanned Aerial' is a broader term that can include various unmanned systems, while 'Drone Operator' specifically refers to controlling drones for specific tasks. Both roles require FAA Part 107 certification and are vital in industries utilizing aerial technology.

Is a degree in unmanned aerial systems worth it?

A degree in unmanned aerial systems can enhance job prospects for roles like drone operator or technician by providing technical knowledge of drone design, operation, and regulations. However, practical experience, certifications, and skills often play a significant role in employment opportunities in this field.
More about Unmanned Aerial jobs

What states have the most Unmanned Aerial jobs?

States with the most job openings for Unmanned Aerial jobs include:

What are popular job titles for Unmanned Aerial?

Popular job titles for Unmanned Aerial:

Infographic showing various Unmanned Aerial job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $192,837 per year, or $92.7 per hour.

Adjunct Instructor, Unmanned Aerial Mapping, Drone

Kalispell, MT • On-site

Flathead Valley Community College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

DEPARTMENT:

Surveying

STATUS:

This is a part-time, temporary, non-benefit eligible position. Employment is determined on a semester-by-semester basis.

PAY RANGE:
Pay is determined by the number of credits taught.   

FLSA: 
Exempt

CLOSING DATE:
Open until filled

SUMMARY

FVCC seeks applications for adjunct instructors to teach one online class in unmanned aerial mapping for the 2026-2027 academic year. 
Fall Semester 2026 (August 24 – December 11): Content expertise in unmanned aerial mapping is required.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

  • Conveys knowledge of the subject area in an effective manner for successful student learning outcomes.

  • Fosters positive student and community relations.

  • Maintains and submits instructional records in accordance with requirements.

  • Integrates subject area with other related curricula.

  • Maintains professional ethics and confidentiality of students in accordance with applicable laws and policies.

  • Works professionally with college faculty and staff to aid with the educational process.

  • Remains current in practices, trends and research related to areas of assignment.

  • Attends meetings and participates in student and/or program assessment as directed.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

  • Reports to Director of Trades Institute

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum qualifications for instructors in career and technical disciplines:

  • Three (3) years’ experience in the occupation to be taught; OR
  • Three (3) years of post-secondary education in the career and technical discipline, combined with work experience in the career and technical discipline.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience teaching in a secondary, post-secondary or higher education environment.
  • Experience using online learning management systems.
  • Experience in differentiated instruction for diverse student populations.

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Ability to effectively and safely teach content and technical material
  • Effective organizational and leadership skills;
  • Working knowledge of use of technology in a learning environment
  • Ability and willingness to serve as a representative for the College by interacting appropriately with the community and students
  • Ability to work within policies and procedures of FVCC
  • Ability to maintain effective and positive professional relationships
  • Ability to follow and issue instructions
  • Demonstrated communication, presentation, educational service and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work effectively with people from a variety of culturally diverse backgrounds
  • Ability to maintain regular and acceptable attendance levels
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check
  • Ability to perform a Medium Duty job, according to the Selected Characteristics of Occupations Defined in the Revised Dictionary of Occupational Titles, U.S. Department of Labor and Industry. Medium Duty involves exertion of 20-50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10-25 pounds frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds continuously to move objects. 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

In order to be considered for this position, applicants must apply online at https://www.fvcc.edu/about/careers-at-fvcc; paper submission of applications or resume materials are not accepted for open positions.  FVCC does not retain application materials for future consideration. Additionally, applicants are required to submit the following documents by uploading them to the online application:

  • Letter of application indicating how you meet the minimum qualifications and detail your work experience as it relates to the position's Knowledge, Skills and Abilities; AND

  • A current, comprehensive resume or curriculum vitae; AND

  • Unofficial transcripts for all degrees held and Professional Certifications, when applicable. As a condition of employment, the successful candidate will submit official transcripts for all degrees held and applicable certifications to FVCC HR upon hire. Only transcripts from accredited institutions will be accepted; AND

  • Three professional references, with complete contact information, must be provided on the application form. Professional references must be individuals most familiar with applicant's work experience, skills, and work behaviors and supervisory experience. Do not list family and friends for professional references.

EMPLOYMENT VERIFICATIONS, REFERENCE CHECKS AND CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS: Prior to any offers of employment, FVCC conducts thorough employment verifications and reference checks and may contact organizations and individuals not listed on an applicant's application or resume.  Additionally, FVCC conducts post-offer criminal background checks. 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:  FVCC is an equal opportunity employer. It is FVCC's policy that all individuals are entitled to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran’s status, service in the uniformed services as defined by state and federal law, physical or mental disability, national origin or ancestry except as authorized by law.  These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, and training and career development programs, as required by federal and state laws.  

FVCC BOARD POLICY:  The FVCC Board Policy Manual is available to review at https://www.fvcc.edu/about/board-administration/board-of-trustees/board-policies

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES:  FVCC provides reasonable accommodations upon request to qualified individuals with disabilities during all phases of employment including the application and selection process.  No applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.

VETERANS' PREFERENCE ACT:  Preference applies in hiring and provides a uniform method by which special consideration is given to qualified Veterans. Veterans’ Preference laws do not, however, guarantee Veterans a job, nor do they give Veterans’ preference in internal actions such as promotion, transfer, reassignment, and reinstatement.  Applying for a preference is voluntary and that all information related to a preference is confidential and used only during the hiring process; the information will be maintained in a separate confidential file.  To claim Veterans' Preference, you must complete the Veterans' Preference Form (form is available at https://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/SF15.pdf) and email it along with document(s) that verify your eligibility for employment preference to HR@fvcc.edu. Claims for Veterans' preference must be received by Human Resources prior to position closing date.     

WINDFALL ELIMINATION PROVISION:  Based on the Windfall Elimination Provision, FVCC employment may not be covered by Social Security.  To learn more about the Windfall Elimination Provision click https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10045.pdf.