15W Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator — Civilian Jobs in West Virginia
Career paths, salary data, and transition resources for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator veterans looking for civilian jobs in West Virginia.
CAREER PATHS
5
TOP SALARY
$108,000.00
VET POPULATION
130K
MILITARY BASES
1
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator civilian salaries in West Virginia
Real West Virginia 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 | $64,450.00 | $105,950.00 | $174,170.00 |
| UAS Operator (Government) | $64,450.00 | $105,950.00 | $174,170.00 |
| Aerial Surveyor | $37,920.00 | $61,520.00 | $100,280.00 |
| GIS Specialist | $51,090.00 | $107,140.00 | $172,410.00 |
| Defense Contractor Drone Analyst | $51,090.00 | $107,140.00 | $172,410.00 |
Source: BLS OEWS state wage data (May 2025 (BLS OEWS)). Annual figures; actual pay varies by employer and experience.
15W Career Matches in West Virginia
Based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. National median salaries shown — West Virginia 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 West Virginia
West Virginia has 1 major military installations. Veterans transitioning from nearby bases often settle locally.
Skills That Transfer
Key Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator skills that West Virginia employers value.
Certifications for West Virginia
These certifications help Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator veterans stand out to West Virginia employers. Some states offer fee waivers for veteran licensing.
VA Resources in West Virginia
VA FACILITIES
8
Medical centers, clinics, and Vet Centers in West Virginia
VETERAN POPULATION
130,000
Veterans living in West Virginia
Translate Your 15W Experience for West Virginia Employers
Use our free resume builder to convert your Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator skills into language that West Virginia employers understand. Built for Army veterans.
15W Career Guides by State
Explore 15W Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator career opportunities in other states.