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Unmanned Aircraft Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UAS Pilot

Yuma, AZ ยท Remote

... Unmanned Aircraft Systems), including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). * Provide fabrication ... Pilot Qualifications: * A minimum of 300 logged hours operating remote-control aircraft or ...

Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) Remote Pilot (also known as P107 Operator) | Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Experience: 0 + years of related ...

FLIGHT TEST PILOT III

Hollywood, MD ยท On-site

$96K - $125K/yr

Hollywood, MD Job Summary The Flight Test Pilot III supports Research and Development (R&D) flight operations for long-endurance Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This role is responsible for planning ...

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Unmanned Aircraft Pilot information

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$48K

$87.1K

$133K

How much do unmanned aircraft pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for unmanned aircraft pilot in the United States is $87,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unmanned aircraft pilot?

Unmanned aircraft pilots, also known as drone pilots, are professionals who operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) remotely. They are responsible for controlling the flight path, monitoring onboard systems, and ensuring the safety of the aircraft during operations. Unmanned aircraft pilots may work in various industries, including agriculture, filmmaking, surveying, delivery, and public safety. Their duties often involve planning flight missions, maintaining equipment, and complying with aviation regulations. Certification and training requirements vary depending on the country and the type of drone operations.

What does an unmanned aircraft pilot do?

As an unmanned aircraft pilot, you operate the system for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) like the MQ-9 Reaper or the RQ-4 Global Hawk during military missions. These drones operate out in the field while you control them from a remote location in both combat and non-combat situations. Your responsibilities in this role vary. Some UAVs are meant for observation, while others provide ground support or are used for strategic airstrikes. Your duties are similar to those of a pilot, changing slightly to accommodate the use of drone software and adherence to mission tactics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an unmanned aircraft pilot, and why are they important?

To excel as an Unmanned Aircraft Pilot, you need strong knowledge of aviation regulations, flight planning, and drone operations, typically backed by a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) from the FAA. Familiarity with drone control software, GPS navigation systems, and flight simulation tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you adapt to changing environments and coordinate with teams. These capabilities ensure safe, compliant, and efficient unmanned flight operations across various industries.

What are some common challenges faced by unmanned aircraft pilots during field operations?

Unmanned Aircraft Pilots often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, maintaining line-of-sight communication with the drone, and ensuring compliance with evolving aviation regulations. Additionally, they must troubleshoot technical issues on the spot and coordinate effectively with ground teams or clients to meet mission objectives. These challenges require strong situational awareness, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to safety protocols.

What is the difference between Unmanned Aircraft Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectUnmanned Aircraft PilotDrone Operator
CredentialsFAA Part 107 certification, pilot licensesOften FAA Part 107 certification, but may not require a pilot license
Work EnvironmentAirspace, outdoor and remote locations, regulated airspaceIndoor or outdoor, often for filming, inspections, or recreational use
Industry UsageAerospace, defense, surveying, agricultureMedia, real estate, event coverage, inspections

Unmanned Aircraft Pilots typically hold specific certifications and operate in regulated airspace for commercial, industrial, or governmental purposes. Drone Operators may have similar certifications but often work in less regulated environments, focusing on media, filming, or inspections. While both roles involve flying drones, Unmanned Aircraft Pilots usually require more advanced training and operate in more complex settings.

Is there a big demand for unmanned aircraft pilots?

Unmanned aircraft pilot jobs are experiencing growth due to increased use in industries such as agriculture, surveillance, and delivery services. The demand is driven by advancements in drone technology and the need for qualified operators with proper certifications and training.

What cities are hiring for Unmanned Aircraft Pilot jobs?

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Infographic showing various Unmanned Aircraft Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,144 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

ULTRA Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) crewmember with Security Clearance

MAG DS Corp dba MAG Aerospace

Springfield, OH โ€ข On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Position Summary MAG Aerospace is seeking an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) crewmember for the ULTRA platform. In this position, you will be responsible for safe aircraft operation which includes but is not limited to maintaining diligent lookout and listening doctrine with available sensors, radios, and other ground control station equipment; following air traffic control clearances; maintaining safe and positive control of the air vehicle during all phases of flight; taking appropriate actions during emergencies; operating sensors onboard aircraft; assisting Mission Commander and Mission Coordinator with flight mission planning and briefings as directed; computing takeoff/landing data via standard operating procedures; as well as utilizing checklists and other standardized manuals. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Duties include, but not limited to : * Safe operation of the sensor payload * Analyzing and reporting sensor data pertinent to mission success and safety of flight * Professional performance with minimal guidance and direction * Ability to work effectively in a small team environment is essential * Locations can be forward located/deployed with minimum comfort access. While operating from the deployed location, all personnel are responsible to, and work directly for, the assigned Site Lead, regardless of parent company. * Crewmembers will be integrated into the daily flying schedule and are responsible for more than one requirement. * Personnel should expect to participate in all facets of the operation to support mission requirements Requirements Minimum Requirements The required skills and knowledge include: MINIMUM: * Prior experience with Group 3 - 5 UA S * Military MOS qualified UAS Pilot ( Army 15 C /15W , Marine 7314, Air Force 18X) * 500 Documented Flight Hours in Group 3 or above as member of US Militar y * In lieu of the above: FAA Licensed Commercial Pilot with Instrument Rating * Must be capable of controlling unmanned aircraft semi-autonomously (preprogrammed) via the GCS or controlling the unmanned aircraft manually via line-of-sight * Basic computer skills are required Education The minimum level of education required is: * High school diploma Desired Requirements The desired skills, knowledge, and education include: * Recent deployed operations; prior military experience * Group 4- 5 UAS AVO /Sensor experience * ULTRA or LEAP AVO experience Other Qualifications Outside of the above, other certifications, licenses, or clearances include: * Must have a valid FAA Class 2 medical certificate (or able to meet standards /obtain ) * Must meet minimum military health standards for worldwide deployment and unmanned aircraft flight qualifications * Must be a US Citizen * Must hold an active Secret Security Clearance Benefits and Compensation At MAG Aerospace, we value your contributions providing our employees with a robust Total Rewards package that supports your total well-being. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 30 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in MAG's Total Rewards programs. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits as well as paid leave, professional development, and tuition assistance. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our Total Rewards Program by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site: https://www.magaero.com/benefits/. Salary at MAG Aerospace is determined by various factors including but not limited to location, the particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $80,000 to $90,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of MAG's total compensation package for employees.