Unmanned aircraft systems operator salary

The salary of an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operator (commonly known as a drone pilot) can vary based on factors like experience, industry, location, certifications, and employer (military, government, or private sector). Here’s a general breakdown:

1. Average UAS Operator Salary (U.S.)

• Entry-Level (0-2 years): $40,000–$60,000

• Mid-Career (3-5 years): $60,000–$80,000

• Experienced (5+ years): $80,000–$120,000+

2. Salary by Industry

• Military/Government: $50,000–$90,000 (e.g., U.S. Army UAV Operators, FAA, DHS)

• Commercial/Private Sector: $60,000–$100,000+ (e.g., Amazon Prime Air, UPS Flight Forward)

• Agriculture/Surveying: $50,000–$80,000

• Film & Media: $50,000–$90,000 (freelance rates vary widely)

• Oil & Gas/Energy: $70,000–$110,000

• Public Safety (Fire/Police/SAR): $50,000–$85,000

3. Highest-Paying UAS Jobs

• Defense Contractors (e.g., General Atomics, Lockheed Martin): $80,000–$150,000+

• Senior Drone Pilots (Part 107 + Advanced Certifications): $70,000–$120,000

• Autonomous UAS Developers (AI/Software Roles): $100,000–$160,000

4. Key Factors Affecting Salary

• FAA Part 107 Certification (Mandatory for commercial ops in the U.S.)

• Security Clearance (Higher pay in defense/government roles)

• Specialized Skills (LiDAR, Thermal Imaging, BVLOS Operations)

• Location (Higher pay in tech hubs like California, Texas, or D.C.)

5. Global Salaries (Approx.)

• UK: £30,000 – £60,000

• Canada: CAD 50,000 – 90,000

• Australia: AUD 60,000 – 100,000

• Middle East (Defense/Surveillance): $70,000–$120,000+

Would you like details on certifications or job opportunities in a specific sector?

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