So, you’ve passed your FAA Part 107 exam—congratulations! Now what?
Getting your Part 107 certificate is more than just checking a regulatory box. It opens the door to a variety of in-demand drone careers across multiple industries. Whether you’re looking to build a full-time business, freelance on the side, or join a specialized team, the opportunities are growing as fast as the drone industry itself. Let’s explore the top job opportunities available to certified drone pilots—and how you can start building your career.
1. Aerial Photography and Videography
This is one of the most popular (and creative) ways to earn money with your Part 107 certificate. Drone pilots are in demand for:
- Real estate listings
- Weddings and events
- Commercial marketing
- Social media content creation
Clients value certified pilots who understand how to safely capture cinematic, high-resolution aerial visuals.
2. Real Estate Marketing
The real estate industry has embraced drone technology for showcasing properties, especially large estates, commercial developments, and construction sites. With a Part 107 certificate, you can:
- Offer aerial home tours
- Highlight neighborhood surroundings
- Provide developers with progress visuals
- Work with brokers or agencies directly
Many agents now consider drone content a must-have in their marketing packages.
3. Roof and Infrastructure Inspections
Drone pilots are frequently hired to inspect:
- Roof damage (especially after storms)
- Power lines and towers
- Bridges and overpasses
- Cell towers and wind turbines
Why? Drones can safely reach places that are dangerous or time-consuming for humans. With thermal cameras or zoom lenses, certified pilots are saving companies time and money.
4. Mapping and Surveying
This is one of the more technical drone career paths. Part 107 pilots work with GIS teams, land surveyors, and construction companies to create:
- Orthomosaic maps
- 3D models
- Topographic surveys
- Construction progress reports
You may need additional software skills (like DroneDeploy or Pix4D), but it’s a highly profitable niche with recurring project work.
5. Agriculture and Crop Management
Known as precision agriculture, this sector is seeing a major drone boom. Farmers and agricultural tech companies use drones to:
- Monitor crop health
- Apply fertilizers or pesticides (under Part 137 regulations)
- Identify irrigation issues
- Optimize planting strategies
If you’re passionate about tech and sustainability, this could be a perfect fit.
6. Public Safety and Emergency Response
Law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and search-and-rescue teams are increasingly relying on drones to:
- Search for missing persons
- Monitor wildfires or hazardous spills
- Support disaster relief efforts
- Create situational awareness for teams
Although many of these positions are in government agencies, they often contract Part 107 pilots for support services and training.
7. Drone Instructor or Content Creator
Already great at teaching or want to build a personal brand? You can become a:
- Drone flight instructor
- Online course creator
- YouTube educator
- Industry consultant or speaker
There’s a growing audience of new drone pilots who want to learn from someone who’s already earned their wings.
Bonus: Freelancing or Starting Your Own Drone Business
Don’t want to work for someone else? Many Part 107 pilots go independent—building freelance drone brands that serve:
- Media agencies
- Local businesses
- Construction firms
- Event coordinators
- Utility companies
From solopreneurs to scaling a team, the possibilities are wide open. Before you start offering services, make sure to look into liability insurance and local requirements to protect your business.
Final Thoughts: The Sky’s Not the Limit—It’s Just the Beginning
Once you earn your Part 107 certificate, you’re cleared for takeoff into one of the fastest-growing tech industries today. Whether you love photography, data, science, or hands-on work, there’s a drone career waiting for you.And when you’re backed by RemotePilot101’s trusted training, you’re not just certified—you’re confident, capable, and ready to fly professionally.
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