Drone Operator
Moab, UT · On-site
Rotating 24/7 shift coverage including nights, weekends, and holidays. * Safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing. Preferred Qualifications * Experience with autonomous drone ...
Drone Operator
Moab, UT · On-site
Rotating 24/7 shift coverage including nights, weekends, and holidays. * Safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing. Preferred Qualifications * Experience with autonomous drone ...
$90 - $150/hr
Provide technical guidance on flow and pressure testing, particulate sampling, and drone operations ... Ability to work 40-50 hours per week, including nights and weekends as needed.Must be able to lift ...
$90 - $150/hr
Provide technical guidance on flow and pressure testing, particulate sampling, and drone operations ... Ability to work 40-50 hours per week, including nights and weekends as needed.Must be able to lift ...
Provide technical guidance on flow and pressure testing, particulate sampling, and drone operations ... Ability to work 40-50 hours per week, including nights and weekends as needed. Must be able to lift ...
Provide technical guidance on flow and pressure testing, particulate sampling, and drone operations ... Ability to work 40-50 hours per week, including nights and weekends as needed. Must be able to lift ...
Provide technical guidance on flow and pressure testing, particulate sampling, and drone operations ... Ability to work 40-50 hours per week, including nights and weekends as needed. Must be able to lift ...
Provide technical guidance on flow and pressure testing, particulate sampling, and drone operations ... Ability to work 40-50 hours per week, including nights and weekends as needed. Must be able to lift ...
Drone Mechanic
Cleveland, OH · On-site
... testing * Must be available to travel 80% during first month of employment to attend Zipline ... Must be able to support shift work including, but not limited to days/evenings, weekends * Must be ...
Drone Mechanic
Cleveland, OH · On-site
... testing * Must be available to travel 80% during first month of employment to attend Zipline ... Must be able to support shift work including, but not limited to days/evenings, weekends * Must be ...
FPV Drone Pilot/Instructor
Raleigh, NC · On-site
You'll operate Group 1 and Group 2 UAS platforms for data collection, testing, training, and ... Irregular hours, weekend/holiday work possible based on mission schedule. * Outdoor environments ...
Quick apply
FPV Drone Pilot/Instructor
Raleigh, NC · On-site
You'll operate Group 1 and Group 2 UAS platforms for data collection, testing, training, and ... Irregular hours, weekend/holiday work possible based on mission schedule. * Outdoor environments ...
sUAS Pilot
Huntsville, AL · On-site
Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used ... Perform regression testing of hardware, software and configuration changes to confirm expected ...
sUAS Pilot
Huntsville, AL · On-site
Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used ... Perform regression testing of hardware, software and configuration changes to confirm expected ...
You'll operate Group 1 and Group 2 UAS platforms for data collection, testing, training, and ... Irregular hours, weekend/holiday work possible based on mission schedule. * Outdoor environments ...
You'll operate Group 1 and Group 2 UAS platforms for data collection, testing, training, and ... Irregular hours, weekend/holiday work possible based on mission schedule. * Outdoor environments ...
You will be a line sUAS Flight Operator for Wing's Part 135 commercial drone delivery service in ... This position is subject to Wing's Drug and Alcohol testing policy in accordance with Wing ...
You will be a line sUAS Flight Operator for Wing's Part 135 commercial drone delivery service in ... This position is subject to Wing's Drug and Alcohol testing policy in accordance with Wing ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Ensure all drone flights comply with regulatory requirements and company safety policies ... This role requires the ability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays This ...
Weekend Drone Testing information
See salary details
$11.78 - $16.22
4% of jobs
$16.22 - $20.65
3% of jobs
$20.65 - $25.09
7% of jobs
$25.09 - $29.52
8% of jobs
$30.82 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$29.52 - $33.96
6% of jobs
$33.96 - $38.40
13% of jobs
The median wage is $40.15 / hr.
$38.40 - $42.83
20% of jobs
$47.01 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$42.83 - $47.27
14% of jobs
$47.27 - $51.70
12% of jobs
$51.70 - $56.14
7% of jobs
$56.14 - $60.58
5% of jobs
$11
$39
$60
How much do weekend drone testing jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for weekend drone testing in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $47.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is weekend drone testing?
Weekend drone testing involves operating and evaluating drones during weekends to assess their performance, functionality, and safety. This job typically includes tasks like conducting flight tests, collecting data, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. It is often required by companies developing new drone technology or by organizations that need to test drones outside of regular business hours. Weekend testers help identify issues, gather feedback for improvements, and ensure drones are ready for commercial or research use.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weekend drone testing specialist?
To thrive as a Weekend Drone Testing Specialist, you need a solid understanding of drone technology, aerodynamics, and safety protocols, often supported by a relevant technical background or FAA Part 107 certification. Familiarity with flight planning software, data collection tools, and troubleshooting hardware or firmware issues is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help ensure accurate testing and reporting. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, reliable drone operations and delivering actionable insights during test programs.
What types of challenges might I face during weekend drone testing, and how can I prepare for them?
Weekend drone testing often involves working outdoors and managing varying weather conditions, which can impact flight performance and safety protocols. Coordination with team members such as engineers, data analysts, and pilots is essential to ensure tests run smoothly and data is accurately collected. Being adaptable, detail-oriented, and proactive in troubleshooting technical issues on the spot will help you succeed. Familiarity with drone regulations and strong communication skills are also important for reporting results and ensuring compliance.
What is the difference between Weekend Drone Testing vs Drone Pilot?
| Aspect | Weekend Drone Testing | Drone Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | FAA Part 107, drone operation licenses | FAA Part 107, drone operation licenses |
| Work Environment | Testing sites, labs, outdoor areas | Various locations, including outdoor and indoor settings |
| Employer & Industry | Research firms, testing companies, manufacturers | Media, agriculture, real estate, inspection services |
Weekend Drone Testing involves conducting drone tests, evaluations, and data collection primarily for research or product development, often in controlled environments. Drone Pilots operate drones for various commercial purposes, including filming, inspections, and surveys, often in diverse outdoor settings. While both roles require FAA Part 107 certification, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.
More about Weekend Drone Testing jobs
What cities are hiring for Weekend Drone Testing jobs?
Cities with the most Weekend Drone Testing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Testing jobs?
The most popular types of Drone Testing jobs are:
What states have the most Weekend Drone Testing jobs?
States with the most job openings for Weekend Drone Testing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Weekend Drone Testing jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Weekend Drone Testing jobs are:
Full-time
Posted 14 days ago
Job description
About Mariana Minerals
Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We're reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
Position Summary
The Drone Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in support of mining operations. This role conducts and supervises continuous drone flight activities for surveying, inspection, monitoring, mapping, stockpile measurements, environmental compliance, security surveillance, and operational support. The Drone Operator ensures all drone missions are executed in accordance with applicable aviation regulations, company policies, and mine safety standards.
This position requires strong technical knowledge of drone systems, mining operations, aviation regulations, and emergency response procedures. Operators must maintain required certifications and be capable of working independently in a safety-sensitive environment.
Housing can be provided onsite.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Drone Operations
Required Qualifications
Required Skills & Competencies
Physical Requirements
Work Environment
Preferred Qualifications
Everyone Gets Home Safe. We never put speed or cost ahead of people.
Extreme Ownership. We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions.
Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate. We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale.
Share Your Legos. We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions.
Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply!
Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We're reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
Position Summary
The Drone Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in support of mining operations. This role conducts and supervises continuous drone flight activities for surveying, inspection, monitoring, mapping, stockpile measurements, environmental compliance, security surveillance, and operational support. The Drone Operator ensures all drone missions are executed in accordance with applicable aviation regulations, company policies, and mine safety standards.
This position requires strong technical knowledge of drone systems, mining operations, aviation regulations, and emergency response procedures. Operators must maintain required certifications and be capable of working independently in a safety-sensitive environment.
Housing can be provided onsite.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Drone Operations
- Conduct pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight inspections of drone systems and equipment.
- Operate and monitor drones in a 24/7 mining environment during day and night shifts.
- Execute automated and manual flight missions for mapping, surveying, inspections, and site monitoring.
- Monitor telemetry, battery status, weather conditions, and airspace restrictions to ensure safe operations.
- Maintain compliance with FAA, MSHA, and company safety and operational requirements.
- Collect aerial imagery, video, LiDAR, photogrammetry, and other operational data.
- Verify data quality, process mission outputs, and distribute information to stakeholders.
- Prepare reports and communicate operational findings to management and project teams.
- Coordinate drone activities with mine supervisors, engineering, dispatch, security, and safety personnel.
- Conduct mission risk assessments and maintain awareness of mining hazards, traffic, blasting schedules, and restricted areas.
- Respond to equipment malfunctions, flight deviations, and emergency situations.
- Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drones, sensors, batteries, and related equipment.
- Coordinate repairs with vendors and technical support teams and maintain parts and supply inventories.
- Maintain accurate flight logs, operational records, maintenance documentation, and compliance reports.
Required Qualifications
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required).
- Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
- Ability to obtain and maintain site-specific mining and safety certifications.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Associate degree or technical training in aviation, geospatial technology, engineering, surveying, or a related field preferred.
- Minimum 2 years of professional drone operating experience preferred.
- Experience operating drones in industrial, construction, mining, energy, or similar environments preferred.
- Understanding of mining operations, mine safety procedures, and site hazards.
- Experience with drone mission planning software and flight management systems.
- Knowledge of aerial surveying, photogrammetry, GIS, LiDAR, or mapping technologies preferred.
- Ability to read maps, site plans, and technical documents.
- Familiarity with weather impacts on drone operations.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong commitment to safety.
- Excellent situational awareness and decision-making skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
- Attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping.
- Ability to remain alert and focused during extended monitoring periods.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to walk on uneven terrain and active mining sites.
- Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, and kneel for extended periods.
- Ability to maintain visual observation of aircraft during flight operations when required.
Work Environment
- Active surface or underground mining operations.
- Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, heavy equipment traffic, and changing weather conditions.
- Rotating 24/7 shift coverage including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with autonomous drone operations.
- MSHA training or mining industry experience.
- GIS, surveying, photogrammetry, or LiDAR experience.
- Experience managing multiple simultaneous drone missions.
- Advanced drone certifications or manufacturer-specific training.
Everyone Gets Home Safe. We never put speed or cost ahead of people.
Extreme Ownership. We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions.
Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate. We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale.
Share Your Legos. We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions.
Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply!