UAS/Drone Operator

Zephyr Systems Inc.; Jackson (MS); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading provider in aviation and unmanned systems is seeking a UAS/Drone Operator. This role involves safe operation of unmanned aircraft for various missions, including planning and data collection. Ideal candidates will have FAA certification and experience with commercial drones. Join a dynamic team and contribute to innovative projects across multiple sectors.

Benefits

Competitive pay and benefits packages

Opportunities for training and career advancement

Access to advanced UAS platforms and technology innovation

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating commercial drones in real-world environments.
• Strong understanding of FAA regulations, airspace classification, and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Operate drones/UAS in compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations.
• Conduct pre-flight planning, risk assessments, and safety briefings.
• Collect and manage aerial imagery, LiDAR, or video data.

Skills

Communication

Problem Solving

Education

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Tools

DJI Pilot

QGroundControl

Pix4D

Job description

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This range is provided by Zephyr Systems Inc.. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$19.00/hr - $35.00/hr

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Aviation Professional & Faith-Based Leader

UAS/Drone Operator

Zephyr Systems Inc.

Location: Jackson, MI | Battle Creek, MI | Multiple Sites

Employment Type: Part-Time/Contract

Salary: Competitive | Based on Experience and Certifications

About Zephyr Systems Inc.

Zephyr Systems Inc. is a leading provider of aviation, defense, and unmanned systems solutions. With a mission to advance innovation through technology integration, training, and operations support, we specialize in Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) UAS operations, ISR missions, emergency response, and commercial aerial services. We are currently seeking skilled UAS/Drone Operators to support missions across diverse sectors including public safety, infrastructure, agriculture, and defense.

Position Overview

The UAS/Drone Operator will be responsible for the safe, effective, and compliant operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for various missions. This role includes mission planning, flight operations, equipment maintenance, data collection, and reporting. Operators may work in field environments, often as part of a larger operations or support team.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate drones/UAS in compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and company policies.
• Conduct pre-flight planning, risk assessments, and safety briefings.
• Perform autonomous and manual flight operations for surveillance, mapping, inspection, search & rescue, or other mission-specific tasks.
• Collect and manage aerial imagery, LiDAR, or video data.
• Monitor aircraft systems and troubleshoot issues in the field.
• Maintain logs, mission reports, and regulatory documentation.
• Ensure all UAS equipment is inspected, calibrated, and flight-ready.
• Support Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and extended operations, as qualified.
• Collaborate with ground teams, mission planners, and clients for effective outcomes.
• Travel to job sites as needed (travel required depending on assignment).

Minimum Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• Proven experience operating commercial drones in real-world environments.
• Knowledge of UAS platforms, flight software, and data collection systems.
• Strong understanding of FAA regulations, airspace classification, and safety protocols.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a mission-driven team.
• Comfortable working outdoors and in dynamic field conditions.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with BVLOS operations and ground-based radar integration.
• Background in aviation, GIS, mapping, inspection, or emergency response.
• Proficiency with tools such as DJI Pilot, QGroundControl, Pix4D, or similar.
• Certifications in NIST UAS Standardized Test Methods, OSHA, or ICS 100/700.
• Military or public safety experience a plus.
• A&P certificate or electronics/mechanical background preferred for maintenance-oriented roles.

What We Offer

• Exciting, real-world missions across public, private, and defense sectors.
• Competitive pay and benefits packages.
• Opportunities for training, certifications, and career advancement.
• Work as part of a team shaping the future of unmanned aviation.
• Access to advanced UAS platforms and technology innovation.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Entry level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Part-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Manufacturing

• Industries

  Airlines and Aviation

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