Now is a great time to be a drone pilot. It’s also a great time to become a drone pilot.
Job opportunities for qualified operators are expanding in industries such as construction, energy, package delivery, and public safety. What’s more, leading drone companies and UAV-related organizations are offering training programs to ensure that the industry will have the pilots it needs as it continues to grow.
Drone pilot jobs can be challenging, rewarding—and lucrative. A review of opportunities for drone pilots stated that median annual salary in the field is $58,280. However, the report said, some pilots can command as much as “six-figures flying drones commercially.”
Where can you find these jobs? A February 2022 Commercial UAV News article asserted that dozens of industries will be looking for talented pilots in the coming years, but demand will be particularly high in the fields of surveying and mapping, delivery, construction, inspection, and security. Here’s what experienced pilots and those new to the field need to know about those industries:
So, if you are pursuing a drone pilot career, keep in mind that while there is great potential for interesting, well-paid work, what matters most is making a commitment to a specific industry or application that will enable operations to be performed in a faster, cheaper, or safer way. To move ahead, be sure to do your research into the different industries that are adopting UAVs and find the field that is the “right fit” for you.
And, regardless of what field you go into, remember that training is crucial. UAV piloting in commercial settings requires more than just a hobbyist or basic Part 107 skill level. Fortunately, many companies and organizations offer comprehensive instruction and support for both new and experienced drone pilots.
For example, DroneUp, a leader in package delivery and commercial UAV flight services, offers pilot training and program development services to its clients. These efforts focus on flight proficiency and emergency preparedness, while also helping to create standard operating procedures customized to the needs of specific companies and organizations.
Similarly, the aerial analytics firm DroneBase provides training along with a wide range of resources for established and budding drone operators. The company offers pilot training tailored to missions in fields such as insurance, construction, and telecommunications. Also, the DroneBase network helps connect pilots to full-time and contract jobs.
Want to learn more about options and opportunities for drone pilots? Attend the 2022 Commercial UAV Expo.
Commercial UAV Expo features more than 140 companies, including Amazon Prime Air and DroneUp, who are using advanced drone technology solutions for real-world applications. The event offers top-notch education, including sessions specifically for drone pilots to scale their business, thousands of attendees, and more exhibitors than any other commercial drone event. It’s the best opportunity of the year for anyone who needs to keep up with commercial UAS technology, trends, and developments. Registration is now open - click here to register today.
Scott Howe is the Editorial Analyst for Commercial UAV News. He is a writer and editor with more than 35 years of experience working in fields such as higher education, healthcare, finance, and insurance. A native of Massachusetts, he currently lives in Portland, Maine.
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