15W Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator — Civilian Jobs in Kentucky
Career paths, salary data, and transition resources for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator veterans looking for civilian jobs in Kentucky.
CAREER PATHS
5
TOP SALARY
$108,000.00
VET POPULATION
290K
MILITARY BASES
3
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator civilian salaries in Kentucky
Real Kentucky 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 | $83,130.00 | $129,990.00 | $355,390.00 |
| UAS Operator (Government) | $83,130.00 | $129,990.00 | $355,390.00 |
| Aerial Surveyor | $39,000.00 | $71,840.00 | $101,330.00 |
| GIS Specialist | $44,980.00 | $89,420.00 | $136,990.00 |
| Defense Contractor Drone Analyst | $44,980.00 | $89,420.00 | $136,990.00 |
Source: BLS OEWS state wage data (May 2025 (BLS OEWS)). Annual figures; actual pay varies by employer and experience.
15W Career Matches in Kentucky
Based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. National median salaries shown — Kentucky 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 Kentucky
Kentucky has 3 major military installations. Veterans transitioning from nearby bases often settle locally.
Skills That Transfer
Key Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator skills that Kentucky employers value.
Certifications for Kentucky
These certifications help Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator veterans stand out to Kentucky employers. Some states offer fee waivers for veteran licensing.
VA Resources in Kentucky
VA FACILITIES
12
Medical centers, clinics, and Vet Centers in Kentucky
VETERAN POPULATION
290,000
Veterans living in Kentucky
Translate Your 15W Experience for Kentucky Employers
Use our free resume builder to convert your Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator skills into language that Kentucky employers understand. Built for Army veterans.
15W Career Guides by State
Explore 15W Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator career opportunities in other states.