Drone Pilot / UAV Operator in Illinois

Commercial drone pilots operate unmanned aerial vehicles for photography, surveying, inspections, and agriculture — one of the fastest-growing emerging tech careers. The FAA Part 107 certificate is accessible, and the applications span construction, real estate, energy, and emergency services.

$56,454 IL Median Salary
15% Growth Rate
1–6 months Training

💰 Drone Pilot / UAV Operator Salary in Illinois

Estimated salary range for Drone Pilot / UAV Operators in Illinois, based on BLS national data adjusted for regional cost of living.

Entry
$38,000
Median
$56,454
Experienced
$90,000

🎓 Drone Pilot / UAV Operator Licensing in Illinois

Credential required: FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Requirements may vary slightly by state. Always verify current licensing requirements with the Illinois state licensing board before enrolling.

Schools and programs related to Drone Pilot / UAV Operator in Illinois

These listings are shown as related training options for Drone Pilot / UAV Operator in Illinois. Before enrolling, compare program length, total cost, credential outcomes, and how well each option matches local employer demand.

Federal dataset match

Parkland College

📍 Champaign, IL

Award

Federal dataset match

Sauk Valley Community College

📍 Dixon, IL

Award

Federal dataset match

Southwestern Illinois College

📍 Belleville, IL

Certificate 2-4yr

Federal dataset match

William Rainey Harper College

📍 Palatine, IL

Award

Federal dataset match

Olney Central College

📍 Olney, IL

Certificate 2-4yr

How to compare these options

  • Look for programs that align with the most common hiring path for Drone Pilot / UAV Operator in Illinois.
  • Ask whether graduates are prepared for any required credential, license, or employer screening step.
  • Compare cost, completion time, and schedule before making a final decision.

🗺️ This Career in Other States

Compare pay, training time, school questions, and next steps before spending money on a program.

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