ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

$52K - $108K/yr

Experience with Unmanned Aircraft Systems * Experience with Electronic Warfare * Secret clearance * HS diploma or GED Nice If You Have: * Experience being deployed in a combat or combat advisor role

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

$52K - $108K/yr

Experience with Unmanned Aircraft Systems * Experience with Electronic Warfare * Secret clearance * HS diploma or GED Nice If You Have: * Experience being deployed in a combat or combat advisor role

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsUnmanned Aircraft Systems Operator Jobs

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator information

See salary details

$10

$32

$83

How much do unmanned aircraft systems operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for unmanned aircraft systems operator in the United States is $32.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectUnmanned Aircraft Systems OperatorDrone Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot CertificateFAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentMilitary, government, commercial sectorsCommercial, recreational, or professional drone operations
Industry UsageDefense, surveillance, mapping, inspectionPhotography, videography, surveying, inspection

Both roles require FAA Part 107 certification and involve operating unmanned aircraft. However, Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operators often work in military or government settings with broader responsibilities, while Drone Pilots typically focus on commercial or recreational drone flights. The roles overlap in skills and certifications but differ mainly in work environment and application.

How much do unmanned aircraft systems operators make?

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry sector. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills or security clearances can earn higher salaries, especially in defense or commercial applications.

Do unmanned aircraft systems operators get paid well?

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operators typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced operators with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in defense, security, or commercial sectors.

What are some common challenges faced by unmanned aircraft systems operators in the field?

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operators often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, maintaining situational awareness during long missions, and troubleshooting technical issues with the aircraft or ground control systems. They must also adhere to strict safety protocols and regulatory requirements while coordinating with other team members, such as mission planners and data analysts. Effective communication and the ability to adapt quickly are essential for success, especially when operating in dynamic or high-pressure environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an unmanned aircraft systems operator?

To thrive as an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, technical aviation knowledge, and typically a high school diploma with specialized UAS training or military certification. Familiarity with UAS control software, GPS navigation systems, and FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication enhance performance in dynamic environments. These skills are crucial for safe, accurate, and efficient operation of unmanned aircraft in both civilian and defense applications.

What is an unmanned aircraft systems operator?

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operators are professionals responsible for piloting and managing drones or remotely piloted aircraft. They control flight operations, conduct aerial surveillance, collect data, and ensure the safe operation of unmanned aircraft, often for military, commercial, or research purposes. UAS Operators must be skilled in navigation, communication, and equipment maintenance, as well as adhering to strict safety and regulatory guidelines. Their work supports a variety of missions, from reconnaissance and mapping to disaster response and infrastructure inspection.
More about Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator jobs? Cities with the most Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator job openings:
What states have the most Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator jobs are:
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,988 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) Maintainer (Aircraft Mechanic II)

Akima, LLC

Fort Huachuca, AZ • On-site

$27.75 - $36.25/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Akima rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

376th of 447 rated engineering

Job description

Individuals serving as UAS Maintainers are required to provide Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Maintenance Support to perform scheduled and unscheduled field-level maintenance in support of the Fort Huachuca Unmanned Aircraft Systems Maintenance Services at multiple flight lines and/or Maintenance Training Facilities, as directed and on various shifts.
Responsibilities
  • Inspect, test, troubleshoot, service, and repair all components of Group 1,2 and 3 UAS IAW maintenance technical manuals and applicable aviation maintenance regulations. Perform emplace, displace, inspections, troubleshooting, and repair of UAS related to ground support equipment.
  • Prepare detailed reports for troubleshooting, maintenance actions, and repairs.
    Use appropriate hand and power tools for maintenance, assembly, and disassembly of UAS components.
  • Perform inspections of aircraft, components, tooling, and completed maintenance to ensure compliance with Army regulations, approved technical data, and the Quality Management System.
  • Conduct receiving inspections, review logbooks and maintenance records for accuracy, identify and document discrepancies, approve articles for return to service when authorized, and support internal, customer, and third-party audits and surveillance activities.
  • Maintain awareness of Flight and Ground Operation procedures and ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Qualifications
  • Group 1 thru 3 sUAS/UAS experience.
  • Aviation Avionics and IT experience (Highly Desired).
  • Shall have honorably served in U.S. military aviation maintenance MOS or civilian equivalent.
  • A minimum of 2 years documented aviation maintenance experience required.
  • Must be able to lift 50lbs, ascend and descend stairs, stand for an extended period up to 50 minutes and walk at least 100 meters across uneven or unpaved surfaces.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Associate degree preferred.

Special Requirements:
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret - Security Clearance.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Must be able to work shifts.
  • Must pass a general physical/wellness exam by a licensed physician prior to employment.

Job ID
2026-22032
Work Type
On-Site
Company Description
Work Where it Matters
Pinnacle Solutions, an Akima company, is not just another federal contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.
At Pinnacle Solutions, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.
For our shareholders, Pinnacle Solutions provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.
For our government customers, Pinnacle Solutions delivers comprehensive services for general construction and renovation, as well as civil and marine construction.
As a Pinnacle Solutions employee, you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

What Akima employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Akima logo

About Akima

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As an Alaska Native Corporation headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Akima is dedicated to delivering superior outcomes for our customers’ missions while simultaneously creating a long-lived asset for our Iñupiat shareholders. Akima maintains a portfolio of small businesses, 8(a) companies, and operating companies that deliver simplified and accelerated access to the products and services agencies need to ensure mission success.

Industry

Specialty trade contractors

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

1995

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Akima Jobs

Apply