The Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) maintenance field is experiencing significant growth and offers a range of career opportunities. With the increasing use of UAS in various sectors such as agriculture, delivery services, telecommunications, and first response, the demand for skilled professionals in this area is rising.
According to an AUVSI economic report cited by FLYING Magazine, UAS engineering salaries start at around $55,000 per year and can increase to $100,000 or more annually. For UAS operators, annual salaries typically begin between $45,000 and $65,000. These figures can be higher, particularly for positions stationed overseas. The wide application of UAS in ‘The Four Ds: dirty, dangerous, difficult, and dull jobs,’ such as firefighting, disaster relief, and pipeline patrols, contributes to the field’s promising prospects.
Everglades University also highlights the dynamic nature of UAS careers. The university’s Bachelor of Science Degree in Aviation/Aerospace with a Concentration in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) prepares students for various roles, including technicians, sensor operators, and mission planners. The degree aims to equip students for FAA Certification and to meet the challenges of the evolving aviation industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, while not tracking salaries for UAS-specific roles, reported that electro-mechanical technicians operating and maintaining drones earned a median salary of $55,610 in 2016. Furthermore, Glassdoor indicates that drone pilots have a median salary of $79,000, although this figure may include manned pilots.
The UAS field is not just about operating drones; it’s at the forefront of aviation technology. As of a recent FAA assessment, there are over 1.6 million drones registered in the United States, with more than 187,000 certified remote pilots. The UAS movement is vast and continuously expanding, offering a variety of job roles and growth opportunities. For those with an FAA pilot certificate, obtaining a remote pilot certificate with a small UAS rating is relatively straightforward, opening up additional career pathways in this innovative field.
Overall, a career in UAS maintenance and operation is not only lucrative but also positions individuals at the cutting edge of aviation technology, with a wide range of applications across multiple industries.