How to Be Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator (Drone Pilot) - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 24, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operators (Drone Pilots) have become increasingly important for businesses and organizations in completing tasks that are too dangerous, difficult, or expensive for humans to do. As a result of this trend, drone piloting has become an increasingly popular career choice. The demand for drone pilots is expected to continue to grow due to the ability of drones to provide aerial surveillance, deliver packages, and conduct search and rescue operations.

the use of drones in the military has created a need for highly trained drone pilots who can operate sophisticated equipment and carry out specialized missions. The job of a drone pilot also requires a high level of technical and operational knowledge, as well as the ability to work closely with computer systems and other related technologies. All of these factors have led to increased job opportunities, competitive salaries, and the potential for career advancement for those with the right training and experience.

Steps How to Become

Research the requirements for becoming an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operator, or Drone Pilot. Each state may have different requirements, so check with your local aviation authority to determine what is necessary. In many cases, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires a UAS operator to pass an aeronautical knowledge test, obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate, and abide by the safety guidelines set forth by the FAA.
Obtain the necessary training. Most drone pilots receive their training from an FAA-approved Part 107 training course. These courses cover topics such as aviation regulations, airspace classification, weather patterns, and aircraft operations.
Take the FAA written exam. To obtain your Remote Pilot Certificate, you must pass the FAA's written aeronautical knowledge exam. This exam is administered at approved testing centers and covers topics such as airspace regulations, weather, and aircraft operations.
Obtain a valid Remote Pilot Certificate. Once you pass the exam, you will receive a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA that is valid for two years. You will need to renew this certificate every two years in order to remain active as a drone pilot.
Register any UAS you intend to fly. All UAS must be registered with the FAA before you can fly them legally. The registration process is easy and only requires an online form and a fee.
Fly your drone. You are now ready to fly! Make sure you are familiar with all applicable airspace rules and regulations before taking off and have a clear understanding of your drone's capabilities.
Stay up-to-date on new regulations and technology. The field of UAS is constantly evolving, so it's important to stay informed about new regulations and technologies. Taking additional courses or attending workshops can help you stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in drone technology.

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operators (Drone Pilots) are skilled and capable professionals who are responsible for the operation of unmanned aircrafts. This requires a combination of knowledge, training, and expertise. Those who wish to become a drone pilot must first obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate by passing an FAA exam.

After attaining the certificate, they must then receive additional training and instruction on how to safely operate the unmanned aircraft. This includes learning about the aircraft's systems, its regulations, and safety protocols. Furthermore, drone pilots must have a comprehensive understanding of aviation concepts such as airspace regulations, weather patterns, and navigation.

With the right knowledge and experience, they can then become certified to fly drones for commercial or recreational use. As a result, they can make a positive contribution to the drone industry while also providing valuable services to their clients.

You may want to check Flight Surgeon, Flight Operations Manager, and Flight Deck Officer for alternative.

Job Description

Operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to capture aerial data, such as photographs, videos, and other information.
Monitor aircraft systems during flight operations and make adjustments as needed to ensure safety and accuracy.
Inspect and maintain UAS prior to flight operations.
Plan and execute UAS flight missions in coordination with customer requirements.
Perform post-flight checks of UAS and associated systems and analyze data collected during the mission.
Maintain detailed flight logs and records for each mission.
Communicate with Air Traffic Control to ensure safe navigation of airspace.
Follow FAA regulations and safety guidelines for UAS operations.
Train other personnel in the operation of UAS systems.
Develop and implement processes and procedures to ensure compliance with government regulations and safety protocols.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aviation systems and principles.
Knowledge of airspace regulations, procedures, and requirements.
Understanding of flight operations and safety protocols.
Proficiency in aircraft systems and components.
Ability to interpret and apply Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations.
Ability to interpret and apply air traffic control regulations and practices.
Ability to operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in varying environments and conditions.
Ability to manage and troubleshoot UAS ground station systems and components.
Ability to manage and troubleshoot UAS payload systems and components.
Knowledge of computer systems, software, and related technologies used in UAS operations.
Ability to plan and execute complex missions utilizing UAS operations.
Knowledge of navigation systems, including GPS, inertial navigation systems, and other satellite navigation systems.
Proficiency in communication systems, including VHF/UHF radios, datalinks, and other communication systems used in UAS operations.
Knowledge of meteorological concepts and principles, including weather systems and flight safety issues.
Ability to document mission operations in accordance with FAA regulations and other applicable laws.

As an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator (Drone Pilot), having a strong understanding of aviation safety principles is essential. Operating drones requires knowledge of the rules, regulations, and safety guidelines that apply to aviation and the airspace. A successful Drone Pilot must also be able to interpret and comprehend aviation charts, maps, weather information, and other critical data.

In addition, the Drone Pilot must have the ability to think critically, problem solve, and make quick decisions in order to safely operate their aircraft in a variety of environments. Lastly, a Drone Pilot must be proficient in the use of computer and technology systems to control, monitor, and plan flights. All of these skills are vital for any successful Drone Pilot in order to protect the safety of people and property on the ground and in the air.

Flight Control Engineer, Flight Operations Coordinator, and Flight Service Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have operating drones in a variety of environments?
How familiar are you with drone regulations and safety protocols?
Have you ever encountered any difficult issues while operating a drone? How did you resolve them?
What kind of maintenance have you performed on drones in the past?
How do you troubleshoot software or hardware issues that arise while operating a drone?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision while piloting a drone.
How would you ensure the safety of people and property while operating a drone?
What challenges have you faced while operating drones in adverse weather conditions?
Describe your experience with data collection and analysis from drone operations.
How would you build relationships with clients to ensure successful drone operations?

Common Tools in Industry

Remote Pilot Certificate. A certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows an individual to legally operate drones for commercial purposes. (eg: Amazon now employs over 800 Remote Pilot Certificate holders for their drone delivery programs. )
Drone Flight Simulator. A software program that allows users to practice and perfect their drone flying skills in a virtual environment without risk to themselves or their drone. (eg: The DJI Flight Simulator provides realistic training scenarios and realistic flight models. )
Drone Navigation Software. Specialized software used to plan and execute autonomous drone missions. (eg: Pix4Dcapture is a professional-grade drone navigation software used to plan automated missions and capture aerial data. )
Drone Maintenance Kit. A toolkit used to maintain and repair drones, including extra parts, tools, and manuals. (eg: The DJI Care Refresh Maintenance Kit includes a variety of spare parts, tools, and manuals for maintaining and repairing DJI drones. )
Drone Camera. A specialized camera used for capturing photos and videos from a drones perspective. (eg: The DJI Inspire 2 Camera is a professional-grade camera used to capture stunning aerial photos and videos. )

Professional Organizations to Know

Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI)
Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)
Small UAV Coalition
Unmanned Safety Institute (USI)
Civil Air Patrol (CAP)
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems Association (UAVSA)
Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA)
Professional Society of Drone Journalists (PSDJ)
Airline Pilots Association (ALPA)
Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA)

We also have Air Traffic Control Tower Operator/Flight Data Communications Specialist, Flight Physiologist, and Avionics Flight Test Engineer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Unmanned Aircraft (UA) A remotely operated or autonomously operated aircraft that does not require a pilot on board.
Remote Pilot An individual who operates an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) via a remote control device, usually from the ground.
Aerial Photography Using unmanned aircraft to capture aerial images for various purposes such as mapping, surveying and monitoring.
Autopilot A system that can automatically control an unmanned aircrafts flight path and actions.
UAS Software Applications used to control and monitor unmanned aircraft, including the ability to track the aircraft and its payloads.
Flight Management System (FMS) A software application that monitors and controls an unmanned aircrafts flight path and performance.
Geofencing A virtual boundary that limits or restricts the entry and/or movement of an unmanned aircraft within a certain area.
Airspace Regulations Rules and regulations governing the safe operation of unmanned aircraft in national airspace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator (Drone Pilot)? A1: An Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator (UASO), also known as a Drone Pilot, is a professional who operates an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for commercial, scientific, or recreational purposes. Q2: What qualifications are required for a UASO? A2: To become a UASO, individuals must have the necessary qualifications and certifications, including passing the FAA's Part 107 remote pilot exam. Additionally, UASO must have knowledge of aviation principles, airspace regulations, and safety protocols. Q3: How much does an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator make? A3: The average salary of a UASO is $62,000 per year. However, salaries can range depending on experience and location. Q4: What organizations regulate the operations of UAVs? A4: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the primary organization that regulates the operations of UAVs in the United States. Additionally, many governments around the world have their own regulations and agencies to oversee the use of UAVs. Q5: What are some applications of UAVs? A5: UAVs have a variety of applications, such as aerial photography and videography, surveying and mapping, agriculture, search and rescue, and more. UAVs are also used for scientific research and military purposes.