Prior military or defense contractor experience as a manned or unmanned pilot/operator, Network technician, or Crew Chief/maintainer (Avionics, GNC, Electrical) * Demonstrated understanding of flight ...
Prior military or defense contractor experience as a manned or unmanned pilot/operator, Network technician, or Crew Chief/maintainer (Avionics, GNC, Electrical) * Demonstrated understanding of flight ...
Chief UAS Pilot
Sterling, VA · On-site
The Chief Unmanned System Pilot at Heven AeroTech is responsible for developing and managing the drone program across the United States and among the defense, public safety and commercial sectors.
Chief UAS Pilot
Sterling, VA · On-site
The Chief Unmanned System Pilot at Heven AeroTech is responsible for developing and managing the drone program across the United States and among the defense, public safety and commercial sectors.
1099 Drone Pilot - Laredo,TX
Katy, TX · Remote
The 1099 UAS/Drone Inspector at Bees360 is responsible for operating an unmanned aerial vehicle to capture aerial images and videos. This contractor will inspect structures for major insurance ...
1099 Drone Pilot - Laredo,TX
Katy, TX · Remote
The 1099 UAS/Drone Inspector at Bees360 is responsible for operating an unmanned aerial vehicle to capture aerial images and videos. This contractor will inspect structures for major insurance ...
At Anduril we are developing unmanned aerial systems capable of terminal guidance, long range ... As a Experimental Test Pilot, you will support the development and field testing of Anduril ...
At Anduril we are developing unmanned aerial systems capable of terminal guidance, long range ... As a Experimental Test Pilot, you will support the development and field testing of Anduril ...
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator RMGS, Inc. is currently recruiting an Unmanned Aircraft Systems ... Ensure all UAS/remote pilot operations comply with UASOP flight profiles and Federal Aviation ...
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator RMGS, Inc. is currently recruiting an Unmanned Aircraft Systems ... Ensure all UAS/remote pilot operations comply with UASOP flight profiles and Federal Aviation ...
Drone Pilot
Oklahoma City, OK · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Quick apply
Drone Pilot
Oklahoma City, OK · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Unmanned System Integration Support (TS/SCI)
Fort Campbell, KY · On-site
$158K/yr
Demonstrate proficiency in piloting both rotary and fixed wing aerial platforms, to include acromode First Person View (FPV) unmanned aerial systems (UAS). * Demonstrate capability to arm UxS to ...
Unmanned System Integration Support (TS/SCI)
Fort Campbell, KY · On-site
$158K/yr
Demonstrate proficiency in piloting both rotary and fixed wing aerial platforms, to include acromode First Person View (FPV) unmanned aerial systems (UAS). * Demonstrate capability to arm UxS to ...
UVM UAS Remote Spray Pilot 2
Kent, OH · On-site +1
Additionally, the pilot follows FAA regulations, supports data collection and analysis, and participates in flight demonstrations and application of treatments using unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
UVM UAS Remote Spray Pilot 2
Kent, OH · On-site +1
Additionally, the pilot follows FAA regulations, supports data collection and analysis, and participates in flight demonstrations and application of treatments using unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
Drone Pilot
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Drone Pilot
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Drone Pilot
Denton, TX · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Drone Pilot
Denton, TX · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Drone Pilot
Denton, TX · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Drone Pilot
Denton, TX · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
At Anduril we are developing unmanned aerial systems capable of terminal guidance, long range ... As a Experimental Test Pilot, you will support the development and field testing of Anduril ...
At Anduril we are developing unmanned aerial systems capable of terminal guidance, long range ... As a Experimental Test Pilot, you will support the development and field testing of Anduril ...
Drone Pilot
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Drone Pilot
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
sUAS Pilot II
Edwards, CA · On-site
This position provides expert-level piloting and mission support for small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) in both research and operational environments. The pilot is responsible for planning ...
sUAS Pilot II
Edwards, CA · On-site
This position provides expert-level piloting and mission support for small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) in both research and operational environments. The pilot is responsible for planning ...
Drone Pilot
Denton, TX · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Quick apply
Drone Pilot
Denton, TX · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Drone Pilot
Topeka, KS · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Quick apply
Drone Pilot
Topeka, KS · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
As a Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient execution of complex drone missions, managing the technical aspects of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and adhering to strict ...
Quick apply
As a Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient execution of complex drone missions, managing the technical aspects of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and adhering to strict ...
Additionally, the pilot follows FAA regulations, supports data collection and analysis, and participates in flight demonstrations and application of treatments using unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
Quick apply
Additionally, the pilot follows FAA regulations, supports data collection and analysis, and participates in flight demonstrations and application of treatments using unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
Director of Unmanned Systems
Hoffman, NC · On-site
Certifications such as FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot, DAWIA Program Management, or relevant DoW acquisition or engineering credentials (preferred). Experience * 10-15 years of experience in unmanned ...
New
Director of Unmanned Systems
Hoffman, NC · On-site
Certifications such as FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot, DAWIA Program Management, or relevant DoW acquisition or engineering credentials (preferred). Experience * 10-15 years of experience in unmanned ...
New
Drone Pilot
Houston, TX · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Quick apply
Drone Pilot
Houston, TX · On-site
$60/day
As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to perform wind turbine inspections in accordance with FAA ...
Unmanned Pilot information
See salary details
$49.5K - $63.3K
10% of jobs
$63.3K - $77K
7% of jobs
$77K - $90.8K
3% of jobs
$101.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$90.8K - $104.6K
6% of jobs
$104.6K - $118.4K
7% of jobs
$118.4K - $132.1K
5% of jobs
The median wage is $140.7K / yr.
$132.1K - $145.9K
17% of jobs
$153.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$145.9K - $159.7K
33% of jobs
$159.7K - $173.5K
5% of jobs
$173.5K - $187.2K
3% of jobs
$187.2K - $201K
2% of jobs
$49.5K
$130.9K
$201K
How much do unmanned pilot jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 8, 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 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?
| Aspect | Unmanned Pilot | Drone Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Remote Pilot Certificate (FAA Part 107) | FAA Part 107 Certification often required |
| Work Environment | Field operations, aerial inspections, surveillance | Media production, surveying, recreational flying |
| Industry Usage | Commercial, industrial, government sectors | Media, 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.
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.
More about Unmanned Pilot jobs
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:
Anduril rating
9.1
Anduril
Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
7.4
Manufacturers average
Based on 75,061 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
ABOUT THE ROLE
As a member of the Maneuver Dominance Technical Operations team, you will serve as a bridge between product engineering and deployed operations for autonomy enabled UAVs. You will practice extreme ownership of all dependencies to ensure that Anduril's growing suite of capabilities achieve total mission success in austere, remote environments. To this end, you will be embedded within an air vehicle development program where you will leverage your operations and technical expertise to shape and deploy a solution of maximum effectiveness and reliability. Your scope will include standing up forward-deployed operations in austere environments, ensuring the successful combat employment of Anduril products, and shaping the long-term sustainment of these products. In addition, you will be a core participant in supporting the development of vehicle autonomy by supporting test events and customer demonstrations closer to home.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS- Extensive hands-on (field operations, manufacturing, or test) technical experience
- Prior military or defense contractor experience as a manned or unmanned pilot/operator, Network technician, or Crew Chief/maintainer (Avionics, GNC, Electrical)
- Demonstrated understanding of flight operations, aircraft systems, and sensors
- Demonstrated ability to solve problems in unstructured situations at the interface of hardware, software, and operations in pursuit of mission success
- Experience working with cross-functional engineering teams and external customers; demonstrated ability to collect differing opinions and reconcile them in order to achieve agreement on what 'right' looks like
- Experience performing data-driven root cause analysis on complex systems using logs as a source of truth
- Intermediate to advanced understanding and experience for some or all of the following:
- Computers; comfortable in a terminal environment, server management, developing or interacting with programming languages (e.g. Python, Rust, MATLAB)
- IP Networking; Network Administration or Design, strong troubleshooting experience required
- Radios; MANET, SATCOM, Backhual systems - Demonstrated ability to train peers or customers on the operation of a product
- Must have prior, operationally relevant, deployment experience
- Willingness to travel up to 80% including occasional deployments for up to two months at a time
- Able to work extended hours as required
- Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S.Top Secret security clearance
- Able to meet health and medical requirements in advance of deployments in accordance with DFARS 252.225-7040, DoDI 3020.41, and/or any additional requirements outlined by region or supporting force, as applicable.
- Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering or related discipline
- Hands-on professional experience working with developmental weapon or missile systems on manned and/or unmanned aircraft
- Experience with one or more of:
- Autonomy; Behavior Trees, CV models, multi-vehicle operation
- Ground-based air defense systems, either sensors or effectors
- Operations and maintenance of air breathing propulsion systems
- Aircraft or launch vehicle flight line operations
- Munitions storage and handling controls
Working at Anduril
About Anduril, in their own words
From Anduril
As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.
About Anduril Industries
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.
Industry
Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing
Company size
501 - 1,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Costa Mesa, CA, US
Year founded
2017