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Unmanned Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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UAS Pilot Engineer

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$132K - $198K/yr

Conducting flight testing of prototype and production unmanned aircraft. * Operating as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Visual Observer (VO) during flight operations. * Planning missions and performing pre ...

$95K - $143K/yr

We are seeking an RC & Large Model Aircraft Pilot - UAS External Pilot (Manual LOS Flight) to conduct manual, line-of-sight (LOS) flight operations for Group 1 & 2 unmanned aircraft systems in a test ...

We are seeking an RC & Large Model Aircraft Pilot - UAS External Pilot (Manual LOS Flight) to conduct manual, line-of-sight (LOS) flight operations for Group 1 & 2 unmanned aircraft systems in a test ...

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Unmanned Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do unmanned pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for unmanned pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unmanned pilot?

Unmanned pilots, also known as drone pilots or UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) operators, are professionals who remotely control aircraft without an onboard human pilot. They are responsible for operating drones for a variety of purposes, including aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, search and rescue, and military operations. Unmanned pilots must have a thorough understanding of aviation regulations, safety procedures, and the technical aspects of drone systems. They often require certification or licensing, depending on the country and type of operation.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an unmanned pilot?

To thrive as an Unmanned Pilot, you need strong knowledge of aeronautical principles, navigation, and FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification. Familiarity with unmanned aerial systems (UAS) platforms, flight planning software, and GPS navigation tools is typically required. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for safe mission execution and teamwork. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure regulatory compliance, operational safety, and successful mission outcomes.

What are common challenges unmanned pilots face when operating drones in different environments?

Unmanned Pilots often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying weather conditions, maintaining line-of-sight in complex terrains, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and regulatory requirements. They must also be prepared to handle unexpected technical issues and coordinate closely with team members, such as mission planners and data analysts, to achieve successful operations. Effective communication and quick decision-making are essential skills for overcoming these challenges and ensuring mission success.

What is the difference between Unmanned Pilot vs Drone Operator?

AspectUnmanned PilotDrone Operator
CertificationsRemote Pilot Certificate (FAA Part 107)FAA Part 107 Certification often required
Work EnvironmentField operations, aerial inspections, surveillanceMedia production, surveying, recreational flying
Industry UsageCommercial, industrial, government sectorsMedia, entertainment, hobbyist

Unmanned Pilots and Drone Operators often share certifications like the FAA Part 107. However, Unmanned Pilots typically engage in more complex, operational roles such as aerial inspections and surveillance, while Drone Operators often focus on media production or recreational flying. Both roles are essential in various industries, but Unmanned Pilots usually require more advanced training and experience for commercial applications.

Is there a big demand for unmanned pilots?

Unmanned pilots, also known as drone pilots, are experiencing increasing demand across industries such as agriculture, construction, film, and inspection services. The growth of drone technology and regulations has expanded job opportunities, especially for those with certifications and skills in operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
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What cities are hiring for Unmanned Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Unmanned Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Unmanned Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Unmanned Pilot jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Unmanned Pilot jobs are:

Infographic showing various Unmanned Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Sr Principal Pilot - Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Northrop Grumman

Lexington Park, MD • On-site

$156K - $234K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Remotely pilot the Triton UAV to conduct engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support.

  • Define, plan, organize, and execute complex flight profiles and test events to support program milestones.

  • Conduct briefings and debriefings, coordinate with maintenance personnel to analyze and correct vehicle discrepancies, and act as NATOPS Instructor or Examiner as required.


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.

Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Sr.

Principal Pilot - Unmanned Air Vehicle to join the team of qualified individuals. Position is located in Naval Air Station Patuxent River, MD. This is a work onsite position, located at Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River, MD with occasional travel to support Production operations in Palmdale, CA.

Help shape the future of unmanned maritime ISR as the Sr. Principal Pilot (AVO) on the MQ-4C Triton Integrated Test Team (ITT) at Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems. From NAS Patuxent River, you will lead developmental and operational flight efforts that validate Triton performance and directly support mission readiness and national security.

This opportunity is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment with diverse test assignments and high expectations. Key Responsibilities: Remotely pilot Triton UAV to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability during engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support through specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers Define, plan, organize and execute complex flight profiles and flight test events in support of program milestones Conduct briefings and debriefings, and coordinate with maintenance personnel to analyze and correct vehicle discrepancies Act as NATOPS Instructor or Examiner as required Must successfully complete company UAV operator training and qualification program and receive GFR certification We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.

Basic Qualifications: Must have a Bachelor of Science AND 8 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Master's degree AND 6 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Ph.D. AND 4 years of related professional/military experience. Must have an active US Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation)

Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance, within a reasonable amount of time as determined by business needs. Current FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating and a minimum of 500 flight hours as pilot-in-command of a manned aircraft Must have at least 250 hours PC/PIC time in UAV/UAS (not in SUAS) or 150 hours in MQ-4. Current Class II or higher FAA medical certificate Must be willing to obtain and maintain the appropriate medical clearance(s), as defined per the customer's contracting requirements, for the duration of your employment.

Must be willing to obtain and maintain all training qualifications, as needed per the customer's contracting requirements, for the duration of your employment. Preferred Qualifications: Degree in Aviation or Aerospace Test Pilot School graduate P-3 or P-8 Military Flight Experience Qualified Global Hawk or Triton UAS Pilot 200 hours of PC/PIC time during engineering flight test, and 10 hours during experimental flight test. 1,000 flight hours as pilot-in-command of a manned aircraft 700 hours PC/PIC time in UAV/UAS (not in SUAS) or 150 hours in MQ-4.

Primary Level Salary Range: $156,400.00 - $234,600.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results

Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date.

However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO

U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.


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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939