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Visual Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Psynergy Health

Patient Safety Observer

Orlando, FL

$18/hr

Maintain constant visual observation of assigned patients to promptly identify any safety concerns or behavioral changes * Assist healthcare staff with patient care activities, ensuring safety ...

Moffitt

PATIENT OBSERVER PRN

Long Beach, CA · Remote

$16.75/hr

Observation may include more than one patient at a time at the remote visual monitoring station. The Patient Observer must be able to clearly see all patients for which he/she is responsible at all ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Technician

Torrance, CA

$70K - $91K/yr

You'll work closely with Test Pilots and engineers to ensure that all equipment is prepared, tests are thoroughly documented, and act as Visual Observer in flight tests. The ideal candidate has a ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Technician

Torrance, CA · On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

You'll work closely with Test Pilots and engineers to ensure that all equipment is prepared, tests are thoroughly documented, and act as Visual Observer in flight tests. The ideal candidate has a ...

Samaritanhealth

VISUAL OBSERVATIONS STAFF

Watertown, NY

$16 - $24.75/hr

Ability to successfully complete the self-learning modules related to Visual Observation Staff (VOS) responsibilities. * May require Medium to heavy lifting at times. * Applicants must be able to ...

Entergy

UAS Pilot II/I

Kenner, LA · On-site

Safely and securely pilot Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), act as a Visual Observer (VO), or Sensor Operator (SO) in accordance with federal, state, and local laws as well as company policy. * Manage ...

Entergy

UAS Pilot II/I

Kenner, LA · On-site

Safely and securely pilot Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), act as a Visual Observer (VO), or Sensor Operator (SO) in accordance with federal, state, and local laws as well as company policy. * Manage ...

Apidel Technologies

Analyst 1

Nashville, TN

Secondary Duties Serve as a visual observer during drone flights. Watch the drone, surrounding airspace, people, vehicles, and airport activity. Communicate with the drone pilot and field staff ...

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Visual Observer information

See salary details

$10

$26

$66

How much do visual observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for visual observer in the United States is $26.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a visual observer?

Visual observers are individuals who assist drone pilots by maintaining a visual line of sight with the drone during flight operations. Their main role is to help ensure the safety of the flight by spotting potential hazards, such as other aircraft, people, or obstacles, and communicating these to the remote pilot. Visual observers are especially important in operations where the drone may be flying beyond the pilot's direct view, such as in complex or extended operations. They work as part of a team to comply with regulations and enhance situational awareness. In many cases, their presence is required by aviation authorities like the FAA to maintain safe drone operations.

What are some common challenges visual observers face when supporting drone operations, and how can they be managed?

Visual Observers often face challenges such as maintaining constant situational awareness, communicating clearly with remote pilots, and adapting to changing weather or lighting conditions. Staying alert for extended periods and scanning for potential hazards, such as other aircraft or obstacles, can be demanding. Effective teamwork, regular communication, and practicing standard procedures help address these challenges and ensure the safety and success of drone missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a visual observer?

To thrive as a Visual Observer, you need keen observational skills, situational awareness, and a thorough understanding of relevant aviation regulations, often supported by completion of FAA training or Part 107 certification. Familiarity with flight planning software, two-way radios, and drone operation systems is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork help Visual Observers effectively coordinate with Remote Pilots and maintain safety. These skills ensure compliance with safety protocols and help prevent accidents during drone operations.

What is the difference between Visual Observer vs Signal Person?

AspectVisual ObserverSignal Person
CertificationsOften requires OSHA or industry-specific safety trainingRequires OSHA or industry-specific safety training, including hand signals
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, crane operations, or outdoor workConstruction sites, crane operations, or outdoor work
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in construction, crane, and rigging industriesCommonly used in crane operations, construction, and heavy equipment work
Primary RoleTo observe and communicate hazards visuallyTo communicate signals to crane operators or equipment operators

Both Visual Observers and Signal Persons work in construction and crane environments, often requiring safety training. While Visual Observers focus on hazard detection and communication, Signal Persons primarily give hand signals to guide equipment operators. Understanding these roles helps ensure safety and efficiency on job sites.

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Visual Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Visual Observer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,759 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Visual Observer - Flight Test Operations Esparto

Zipline

Esparto, CA • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

About You and The Role 

The Flight Test Operations team at Zipline is growing, and we're looking for individuals with sound judgment, excellent interpersonal skills, and exceptionally high standards.  Success requires a process-minded approach on every flight, safety-oriented attitude, flexibility, and enthusiasm for using cutting-edge technology to deliver goods and lifesaving medical supplies on 3 continents around the world (so far), 7 days a week.

You will monitor assigned airspace and conditions around UAS flights, communicate hazards clearly to the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC), and speak up when a flight condition requires attention, a pause, or escalation. Your judgment directly supports safe, disciplined flight execution.

What You'll Do 
  • Attend pre-operational briefings and complete required crew activities before assigned flights.
  • Monitor assigned airspace along flight routes before launch and throughout UAS testing, flight, and delivery phases.
  • Identify non-cooperative aircraft, hazardous weather, local fire events, and other conditions that could affect flight safety.  Initiate escalation and immediate mitigations per crew procedures and stop operations when required.
  • Call out safety concerns, request a pause when conditions warrant, and escalate unresolved hazards through the flight crew.
  • Maintain reliable observation, communication, and procedural discipline during assigned flight operations.
  • Maintain operational readiness for day, night, and weekend shifts; participate in recurrent training, competency checks, and any required regulatory training.
What You'll Bring
  • Sound judgment, close attention to detail, and a process-minded approach to every flight.
  • Ability to follow flight procedures, retain situational awareness, and communicate observations accurately under operational conditions.
  • Ability to work independently in isolated conditions for extended periods while remaining attentive and communicative.
  • Availability for full-time shifts, including days, nights, and overnight shifts.
  • Clear interpersonal communication and the confidence to raise safety concerns directly.
  • Part 107 certification or prior drone, UAS, or aviation experience is preferred.
What Else You Need To Know
Please Note

The starting pay for this role is $22/ hour. 

Zipline is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws or our own sensibilities.

We value diversity at Zipline and welcome applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. If you like the sound of this position but are not sure if you are the perfect fit, please apply!

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