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Unmanned Aircraft Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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UAS Operator / Pilot

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$75K - $135K/yr

SpektreWorks is seeking experienced UAS Pilots to support the testing, demonstration, training, and operational deployment of advanced unmanned aircraft systems. This position is based in Phoenix ...

Operate small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) through the app to capture roof images and overhead ... In Kansas, if the new pilot completes 25 credits within 30 days, both the referrer and the new ...

$54 - $66/hr

... Unmanned Aerial System ( UAS ), Advanced Air Mobility ( AAM ), electric Vertical-Take-Off-and ... The Chief Pilot leads a team of technical experts and UAS and traditional aircraft crew members to ...

$75 - $110/hr

S. military special operations, civilian intelligence agency veterans and manned and unmanned aircraft pilots and maintainers, OWT Global brings a blend of skills optimized for today's dynamic ...

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Drone Pilot - GSDF 911th Support BN

Ellenwood, GA ยท On-site

$32K - $41K/yr

... Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) unit . This is a volunteer military service position offering ... drone piloting skills through additional training and real-world practical application while ...

... Unmanned Aircraft System during stateside and overseas operations. Responsible for the safe ... Remote pilot a UAS, following a specific flight plan or modifying flight plans to meet mission ...

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Flight Test Engineer

Las Vegas, NV ยท On-site

$92K - $117K/yr

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience operating or supporting unmanned aircraft systems * Knowledge of fiberglass and carbon fiber composite fabrication * Experience with FDM and DLP 3D ...

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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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What states have the most Unmanned Aircraft Pilot jobs?

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For Unmanned Aircraft Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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.

Aircraft Test Pilot - California

Heli Preflight

Hollister, CA โ€ข On-site

$159 - $199/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description

At Wisk, were transforming the future of urban mobility through safe, all-electric, autonomous flight. We are a passionate team working together toward a sustainable future, solving high-impact problems that have never been solved before. By delivering everyday flight for everyone, were making it possible to spend less time getting there and more time being there. If you want to be part of shaping the future of mobility, then read on!

We are looking for a Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification of a new class of all-electric aircraft. As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely with fellow test pilots, flight test technicians and flight test engineers as well as cognizant systems engineers and the certification group to verify and validate a revolutionary new aircraft design. Wisk recognizes the challenges that the UAM industry faces with regard to the certification path for our vehicles. We are taking a pragmatic approach to this task and consequently are looking for experienced flight test personnel to join our talented team to make the certification process as efficient and effective as possible.

Due to the nature of the work required for this position, this is an onsite opportunity working from our Hollister, CA flight test facility. Occasional travel to offsite test locations and training facilities will be part of the scope of your duties.

Responsibilities
  • Author air vehicle and subsystem test plans
  • Evaluate hazards posed by the method and scope of test, and establish appropriate mitigations
  • Perform flight tests, piloting our general aviation support aircraft and our un-crewed aircraft systems
  • Develop, review and approve trajectory planning for our UAS mission profiles
  • Report test results to a standard required by certification authorities
  • Support the development of program documentation including restrictions and special instructions to test, Aircraft Flight Manuals and Standard Operating Procedures
  • Mentor and lead fellow flight testers, supporting their professional development while exemplifying the elements of Wiskโ€™s Safety Management System.
Requirements
  • 8 years experience as a test pilot in flight testing fixed/rotary-wing aircraft or similarly complex aerospace systems.
  • FAA Commercial Pilot or ATP certificate (Fixed or Rotary Wing)
  • Minimum FAA Second Class Medical certificate
  • Bachelors of Science degree in a relevant engineering or technical field
  • Depth of experience with both Flight and Operations Safety Risk Management
  • Capability to work within the engineering organization to inform vehicle design
  • Experience mission-relating engineering data to operational use cases.
  • Exceptional verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
  • Test Pilot role: 1500 hours of flight experience, with 200 hrs in flight test
  • Test Specialist role: 250 hours of flight experience
  • Graduate of an engineering test pilot school or program.
  • Experience conducting flight programs pursuing FAA/TCCA/EASA Certification
  • Unmanned aircraft flight operations experience
  • Electric propulsion or high stored energy test experience
  • Both fixed-wing and turbine-engine rotary-wing flight test experience
  • Human-to-vehicle interface design, test and evaluation experience
  • Formal formation flight training and subsequent formation flight experience
  • Masters degree in a relevant engineering or technical field
  • Familiarity with MBSE processes

Job Type: Full-time

Pay range the company expects to pay: $159,000 โ€“ $199,000 per year โ€“ The starting base salary within this range for this role varies based on factors such as your geographical location, and your relevant job-related experience that is consistent with a business necessity.

Wisk HQ is located in Mountain View just a couple of hundred feet from Shoreline Lake and its surrounding walking/jogging trails. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, 9 off Fridays for full-time employees throughout the year, flexible vacation time off, 11 company holidays, a 401(k) plan with 50 company matching vested immediately, commuter assistance, and education assistance. And on top of all that, we also offer a variety of perks such as free catered lunches, flight lessons, wellness allowances, snacks, drinks, employee referral bonus, charitable giving match, patent bonus program, and more.

Company Details

Wisk is developing the worldโ€™s first autonomous, all-electric air taxi. Backed by Boeing, our team has built six generations of aircraft and completed over 1,750 safe test flights. Weโ€™re working toward FAA certification of our Generation 6 aircraft, aโ€ฆ

Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, 9 off Fridays for full-time employees throughout the year, flexible vacation time off, 11 company holidays, a 401(k) plan with 50% company matching vested immediately, commuter assistance, and education assistance. And on top of all that, we also offer a variety of perks such as free catered lunches, flight lessons, wellness allowances, snacks, drinks, employee referral bonus, charitable giving match, patent bonus program, and more.

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