15W Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator — Civilian Jobs in Arkansas
Career paths, salary data, and transition resources for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator veterans looking for civilian jobs in Arkansas.
CAREER PATHS
5
TOP SALARY
$108,000.00
VET POPULATION
210K
MILITARY BASES
3
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator civilian salaries in Arkansas
Real Arkansas pay for the civilian careers this MOS feeds — median and the typical range (10th–90th percentile), from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
| Career | Low (10th) | Median | High (90th) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Drone Pilot | $43,290.00 | $94,410.00 | $171,500.00 |
| UAS Operator (Government) | $43,290.00 | $94,410.00 | $171,500.00 |
| Aerial Surveyor | $36,380.00 | $51,800.00 | $91,610.00 |
| GIS Specialist | $45,770.00 | $86,940.00 | $135,140.00 |
| Defense Contractor Drone Analyst | $45,770.00 | $86,940.00 | $135,140.00 |
Source: BLS OEWS state wage data (May 2025 (BLS OEWS)). Annual figures; actual pay varies by employer and experience.
15W Career Matches in Arkansas
Based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. National median salaries shown — Arkansas salaries may vary by metro area.
Commercial Drone Pilot
SOC 53-2012
$108,000.00
median/yr
UAS Operator (Government)
SOC 53-2012
$108,000.00
median/yr
Aerial Surveyor
SOC 17-1022
$68,200.00
median/yr
GIS Specialist
SOC 15-1299
$75,000.00
median/yr
Defense Contractor Drone Analyst
SOC 15-1299
$75,000.00
median/yr
Military Installations in Arkansas
Arkansas has 3 major military installations. Veterans transitioning from nearby bases often settle locally.
Skills That Transfer
Key Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator skills that Arkansas employers value.
Certifications for Arkansas
These certifications help Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator veterans stand out to Arkansas employers. Some states offer fee waivers for veteran licensing.
VA Resources in Arkansas
VA FACILITIES
10
Medical centers, clinics, and Vet Centers in Arkansas
VETERAN POPULATION
210,000
Veterans living in Arkansas
Translate Your 15W Experience for Arkansas Employers
Use our free resume builder to convert your Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator skills into language that Arkansas employers understand. Built for Army veterans.
15W Career Guides by State
Explore 15W Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator career opportunities in other states.