15W Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator — Civilian Jobs in New Mexico
Career paths, salary data, and transition resources for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator veterans looking for civilian jobs in New Mexico.
CAREER PATHS
5
TOP SALARY
$108,000.00
VET POPULATION
150K
MILITARY BASES
4
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator civilian salaries in New Mexico
Real New Mexico 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 | $34,680.00 | $97,920.00 | $219,010.00 |
| UAS Operator (Government) | $34,680.00 | $97,920.00 | $219,010.00 |
| Aerial Surveyor | $42,890.00 | $74,230.00 | $101,230.00 |
| GIS Specialist | $70,120.00 | $127,090.00 | $194,850.00 |
| Defense Contractor Drone Analyst | $70,120.00 | $127,090.00 | $194,850.00 |
Source: BLS OEWS state wage data (May 2025 (BLS OEWS)). Annual figures; actual pay varies by employer and experience.
15W Career Matches in New Mexico
Based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. National median salaries shown — New Mexico 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 New Mexico
New Mexico has 4 major military installations. Veterans transitioning from nearby bases often settle locally.
Skills That Transfer
Key Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator skills that New Mexico employers value.
Certifications for New Mexico
These certifications help Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator veterans stand out to New Mexico employers. Some states offer fee waivers for veteran licensing.
VA Resources in New Mexico
VA FACILITIES
10
Medical centers, clinics, and Vet Centers in New Mexico
VETERAN POPULATION
150,000
Veterans living in New Mexico
Translate Your 15W Experience for New Mexico Employers
Use our free resume builder to convert your Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator skills into language that New Mexico employers understand. Built for Army veterans.
15W Career Guides by State
Explore 15W Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator career opportunities in other states.