Aviation & Aerospace
Commercial Drone Pilot (UAS)
Operate drones for film, surveying, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and public safety. Fast-growing field with a 2-month cert.
no-degree-requiredquick-starthigh-growthremote-friendly
74
ROI · Strong
Investment vs return
Cost · time · demand normalized 0–100
Salary progression
What you'll earn over your career
$42k
$70k
$110k
Entry
Mid-career
Senior
10-yr outlook
+20%
+20% (Much faster than avg)
Open positions
8,000
Estimated nationwide
Entry paths
How to get here
Multiple paths lead to this career. Compare time, cost, online vs in-person delivery, and program links.
Fastest ROI
Certification Online
FAA Part 107 sUAS Certificate
Time
1–3 months
Cost
$200 – $1,500
Best ROI cert in aviation. Specialize (thermography, agriculture, surveying) for premium rates.
Affiliate disclosure: Some of the program links above may be affiliate partnerships. If you enroll, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only link to programs we have actually reviewed against our methodology. See our methodology for how we evaluate schools.
Quick math
If you took the fastest path…
You'd train for
1–3 months
You'd spend (avg)
$850
Starting salary
$42,000
Mid-career
$70,000
Read more
Articles & resources
Sources: BLS OOH 2024 · FAA