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Unmanned Aircraft Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RMGS

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator

Gulfport, MS · On-site

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator RMGS, Inc. is currently recruiting an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator in Stennis, Mississippi. This position is contingent upon contract award. Roles and ...

U.S. Army

Unmanned Aircraft System Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22K - $44K/yr

About the Job As an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator, you'll be an intelligence specialist, integral to providing Army personnel with information about enemy forces and battle areas. You'll train ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

$52K - $108K/yr

Share Counter Unmanned Aircraft System Training Facilitator The Opportunity : Provide timely research and analysis of current Global Unmanned Aircraft System threats to identify high-value gaps and ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

$52K - $108K/yr

Share Counter Unmanned Aircraft System Training Facilitator The Opportunity : Provide timely research and analysis of current Global Unmanned Aircraft System threats to identify high-value gaps and ...

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Unmanned Aircraft information

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How much do unmanned aircraft jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for unmanned aircraft in the United States is $38.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.68 and $49.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unmanned aircraft?

Unmanned aircraft, often referred to as drones or UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), are aircraft that operate without a human pilot onboard. They are remotely controlled or fly autonomously using pre-programmed flight plans or more complex dynamic automation systems. Unmanned aircraft are used in various industries, including military, agriculture, filmmaking, and delivery services, due to their ability to perform tasks that may be dangerous, repetitive, or difficult for manned aircraft. Their popularity has grown rapidly in recent years, leading to increased regulation and technological advancements.

What are the typical collaboration points between unmanned aircraft operators and other teams within an organization?

Unmanned Aircraft Operators frequently collaborate with teams such as engineering, data analysis, safety, and logistics. For example, they may work closely with engineers to ensure proper maintenance and upgrades of the UAVs, and coordinate with data analysts to interpret aerial data collected during missions. Close communication with safety officers is essential to ensure compliance with aviation regulations, and logistics teams help plan and execute flight schedules. This interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial for efficient and safe operations, as well as for achieving mission objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an unmanned aircraft (drone) operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Unmanned Aircraft (Drone) Operator, you need a solid understanding of aviation principles, remote piloting skills, and typically a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Familiarity with drone flight software, GPS navigation systems, and imaging technology is essential for safe and precise operations. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators manage complex flight scenarios and collaborate with teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and successful mission outcomes in diverse aerial operations.

What is the difference between Unmanned Aircraft vs Drone Operator?

AspectUnmanned AircraftDrone Operator
CredentialsFAA Part 107 certification, pilot licensesFAA Part 107 certification, remote pilot certificate
Work EnvironmentField operations, aerial surveys, inspectionsRemote control, on-site or in-office operation
Industry UsageAerial photography, agriculture, surveillanceFilmmaking, real estate, inspections

Unmanned Aircraft refers broadly to the vehicle itself, including all types of remotely piloted or autonomous aerial systems. A Drone Operator is a person who controls or manages these aircraft, often requiring specific certifications. While both roles overlap in industry and credentials, the aircraft is the equipment, and the operator is the person executing the tasks.

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What job categories do people searching Unmanned Aircraft jobs look for?

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Unmanned Aircraft jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unmanned Aircraft job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,655 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Engineer - High Speed Unmanned Aircraft

Griffon Aerospace

Madison, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Griffon Aerospace, a leader in the Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) industry, is seeking a talented Engineer to support our high-speed aerial target and unmanned aircraft product lines. Our Madison, AL based small business is seeking innovative individuals who want to join an up tempo, maker culture that proudly provides products and services to support the American Warfighter!This role suits a well-rounded engineer to be comfortable working across the full breadth of a UAV, airframe, propulsion, avionics, and electrical systems, rather than staying confined to a single discipline. Experience with turbine engines is a strong plus.PRIMARY FOCUSSupport design, integration, and test of high-speed unmanned aircraft across airframe, propulsion, avionics, and electrical disciplinesSupport propulsion system integration, including turbine/jet engine installation, fuel systems, and performance analysisSupport aerodynamic, structural, and systems-level trade studies for high-speed airframe designsSupport integration and troubleshooting of avionics, flight control, and electrical power systems on high-speed airframesWork across mechanical, electrical, and software teams to integrate propulsion, avionics, and airframe subsystems into a complete aircraftSupport ground and flight testing, data reduction, and design iteration across all aircraft subsystemsPartner with production and quality to resolve design-for-manufacturing issuesDESIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE0-5 years of engineering experience, ideally in aerospace or other high-performance systemsExperience with turbines or jet engines strongly preferredBroad, hands-on exposure to multiple aspects of UAVs, airframe/structures, propulsion, avionics, and electrical systems, rather than a single specialtyCAD and engineering analysis tool experienceHands-on fabrication, integration, or test experience with high-speed or high-performance vehicles (UAS, RC aircraft, FSAE, rocketry, or similar)REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCEBachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldStrong fundamentals in at least one of: propulsion, aerodynamics/structures, or avionics/electrical systems, with willingness to work across all threeAbility to work hands-on across disciplines in a fast-paced small business environmentStrong communication and cross-functional collaboration skillsWillingness to travel occasionally to support flight testJOB LOCATIONMadison, Alabama, United StatesPOSITION TYPEFull-Time/RegularCOMPENSATION/BENEFITSCompetitive Salary/Comprehensive Benefits PackageUS CITIZENSHIP REQUIREDYesABILITY TO OBTAIN SECURITY CLEARANCEYes, ability to gain and maintain a Secret clearance
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