Drone Pilot

Collabera; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 34,440 - 41,328; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Life insurance

Paid parking/public transportation

Paid time off

Paid sick and safe time

Paid vacation time

Paid parental leave

Paid holidays

Job summary

A technology services company is looking for an experienced Drone Operator in Seattle to support advanced flight operations across multiple U.S. locations with up to 100% travel. Candidates should have a Private Pilot License, over 2 years of drone pilot experience, and be comfortable working in cold environments. This contract role involves leading teams and executing safe drone operations.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of remote-control/drone pilot experience with proven coordination skills.
• Experience flying multiple drone platforms beyond DJI.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks.

Responsibilities

• Conduct safe and compliant drone flight operations.
• Monitor drone performance and ensure equipment readiness.
• Travel continuously to support operational needs.

Skills

Remote-control/drone pilot experience

Team leadership

Technical skills

Education

Private Pilot License (PPL)

Job description

Job Title: Drone Operator

Location: Seattle, WA

Contract Duration: 6+ Months Contract

Travel: Up to 100% (Domestic)

Hourly Rate: $25.00/hr - $30.00/hr

Benefits: medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, short-term disability insurance, paid parking/public transportation, paid time, paid sick and safe time, hours of paid vacation time, weeks of paid parental leave, paid holidays annually - as applicable

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Drone Operator to support advanced flight operations across multiple U.S. locations. This role involves extensive travel, hands‑on field work, operating various drone platforms (beyond DJI), and working in diverse environmental conditions, including snow and cold weather. The ideal candidate is a certified, safety‑focused aviation professional with strong technical skills and leadership experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct safe and compliant drone flight operations across a variety of locations.
• Execute mission plans, pre‑flight checks, and post‑flight documentation.
• Monitor drone performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure equipment readiness.
• Lead and coordinate small operational teams during field missions.
• Maintain clear communication with leadership and project stakeholders.
• Travel continuously (up to 100% of the contract) to support operational needs.
• Operate effectively in adverse weather environments including snowy or cold terrain.
• Handle physical tasks as needed, such as lifting equipment (up to 50 lbs) and walking/standing for extended periods.

Required Qualifications

• Private Pilot License (PPL)
• 2+ years of remote‑control/drone pilot experience with proven coordination and execution skills
• Experience flying multiple drone platforms, not limited to DJI
• Ability to work a night shift (3 PM - 11:30 PM)
• Fully comfortable traveling 100% domestically
• Comfortable working in snowy/cold conditions
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks (standing/walking 8‑10 hours, bending, pushing/pulling)
• Experience leading small teams

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Contract

Job Function

Management and Manufacturing

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Collabera by 2x.