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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

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

As of Aug 11, 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.
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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.

Counter Unmanned Aircraft System Training Facilitator

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Columbus, GA • On-site

$52K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Booz Allen Hamilton rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description

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 develop innovative training solutions for the client to prepare for their duties using a combination of Electronic Warfare equipment, methodologies, mounted and dismounted Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures in garrison and field environments. Provide Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) instruction and integration for U.S. military personnel conducting Home Station and Combat Training Center exercises. Integrate, plan, synchronize, coordinate, and facilitate all live, virtual, constructive, and gaming C-UAS assets available for home station training using blended learning techniques.
You Have:
  • 8+ years of experience with USASOC units
  • 3+ years of experience as a certified military instructor or civilian certified instructor
  • 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
  • Experience integrating live, virtual, constructive, and gaming warfighting training
  • Experience conducting After Action Reviews (AAR)
  • Experience with FAA flight request and coordination procedures
  • Experience with Special Operations Force
  • Bachelor's degree
  • sUAS Master Trainer Certification

Clearance:
Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Secret clearance is required.
Compensation
At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. 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 benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.
Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's 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 $52,900.00 to $108,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.
Identity Statement
As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.
Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.
  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.
  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.
  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.

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About Booz Allen Hamilton

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Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914

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