Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of creative innovation, the focus on cinematography and film production drone pilots is more prevalent than ever.

As visual storytelling evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, manipulate, and secure our cinematic skies grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a cinematography and film production drone pilot?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring drone pilot seeking to understand the core of this role,
• A film producer drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply captivated by the art of aerial cinematography,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable job description template for a cinematography and film production drone pilot, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot Duties and Responsibilities

A Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot is involved in creating aerial shots and sequences in film and video production using drone technology.

This involves technical, creative, and safety aspects to ensure the production of high-quality visual content.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Operate drones for filming aerial shots and sequences following the director’s creative vision
• Plan and rehearse flight paths and camera movements in pre-production
• Perform pre-flight checks, including weather conditions, flight paths, and equipment functionality
• Ensure drone equipment is maintained, calibrated, and in working order before and after flights
• Collaborate with the director, cinematographer, and other production staff to achieve desired shots
• Follow all safety protocols and regulations, including obtaining necessary permits and permissions for drone operations
• Review and edit footage in post-production if needed
• Stay up-to-date with advancements in drone technology and filmmaking techniques
• Maintain logs of all drone flights and any incidents or accidents

 

Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot to create stunning aerial footage for our film productions.

The Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot will be responsible for operating drones for filming, ensuring all equipment is maintained and operational, and coordinating with the film team to achieve desired shots.

Our ideal candidates are passionate about film production, have significant drone piloting experience, and are committed to safety and regulatory compliance.

 

Responsibilities

• Operate drones to capture high-quality aerial footage and photography
• Collaborate with cinematographers and directors to plan, coordinate, and execute complex shots
• Maintain and troubleshoot drone equipment
• Follow all drone safety regulations and guidelines
• Coordinate with production team to integrate drone footage into final product
• Stay updated with latest drone technology and filming techniques
• Conduct drone rehearsals to ensure smooth shooting on the day of filming
• Understand and interpret storyboards and shot lists

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a drone pilot, preferably in the film industry
• FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent
• Strong understanding of drone operation, safety, and maintenance
• Ability to execute complex flight maneuvers for cinematic shots
• Experience collaborating with film production teams
• Excellent understanding of weather conditions and their impact on drone flight
• Strong technical understanding of video formats, codecs, and post-production workflows
• Experience with drone-based mapping and 3D modeling software is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continued professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot
• Work Environment: On-site at various filming locations with potential for travel.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Cinematographer or Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Depending on qualifications and experience
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if travel is required)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a link to your demo reel to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot Do?

A Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot operates unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly referred to as drones, to capture high-quality, dynamic shots for films, television shows, commercials, and other visual media.

They work closely with the director and the director of photography to plan, coordinate, and execute complex flight maneuvers, ensuring they capture the desired shots while adhering to the concept, style, and overall vision of the project.

The Drone Pilot is responsible for controlling the drone both manually and through automated software systems, adjusting flight paths and camera angles in real-time to capture the necessary footage.

Additionally, they are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the drone equipment, troubleshooting any technical issues that may arise, and ensuring that all operations are carried out in accordance with federal regulations and safety procedures.

They also work closely with the post-production team, delivering raw footage for editing and providing input where necessary to ensure the final product meets the creative objectives of the project.

Furthermore, the Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot should always remain updated about the latest advancements in drone technology and cinematography techniques to continually improve the quality of their work.

 

Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot Qualifications and Skills

A skilled Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot must possess specific technical abilities, creativity, and knowledge of industry regulations, including:

• Strong technical knowledge of drone operation, maintenance, and repair to ensure equipment is always ready for use.
• Understanding of film production techniques and principles to create compelling and visually stunning aerial shots.
• Excellent attention to detail to capture high-quality video footage and images that meet the specific requirements of the production team.
• Proficiency in using drone software and flight simulators for planning, executing and reviewing flight paths and maneuvers.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with directors, cinematographers, and other members of the production team.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly adapt to unexpected situations or challenges that may arise during drone operation.
• Knowledge of and adherence to FAA regulations and other relevant laws regarding drone usage to ensure compliance at all times.
• Creativity and aesthetic sensibility to create visually appealing and compelling images and video footage.
• Physical fitness and coordination to operate drone controls accurately and effectively for extended periods.
• Ability to work under pressure and within tight schedules, often in challenging weather conditions.

 

Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot Experience Requirements

Entry-level Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilots may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, part-time roles, or vocational school programs in film production or related fields.

In addition, they may have acquired certification from a recognized drone training institution.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Drone Camera Operator, Assistant Film Director, or other film-related roles.

They may also have some experience in the operation and maintenance of various drone models and the associated camera equipment.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in the field of cinematography and drone operation.

They also might have gained experience in various aspects of film production such as location scouting, filming in different lighting conditions and weather, and editing footage.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often adept at coordinating with film directors and cinematographers to create desired aerial shots and may have some leadership experience in their background.

This could position them well for roles such as Aerial Cinematography Director or Lead Drone Pilot.

It is also expected that they possess a thorough understanding of relevant regulatory norms for drone operations in various jurisdictions.

 

Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot Education and Training Requirements

Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilots typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Having a bachelor’s degree in film, cinematography, or a related field is beneficial, providing foundational knowledge in film production and an understanding of visual storytelling.

A significant part of the training involves learning to operate a drone.

Many community colleges and private institutions offer drone pilot training programs.

These programs usually cover the basics of drone operation, safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and aerial photography and videography.

In addition to training, a Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot needs to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The process requires passing an aeronautical knowledge test and being at least 16 years old.

On-the-job training is also vital in this field to gain real-world experience.

Working under experienced drone pilots can provide valuable insights into the nuances of flying for film production.

Moreover, having specialized skills in film editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro could set a candidate apart.

Continuing education through workshops, seminars, or advanced courses can help keep drone pilots updated with the latest drone technologies and cinematography techniques.

It also displays a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

 

Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot Salary Expectations

A Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot earns an average salary of $74,396 (USD) per year.

The earnings can vary significantly depending on experience, location, project scale, and the company hiring.

Additional factors like certification, specializations, and the complexity of the drone operations can also influence the salary.

 

Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot need?

A Drone Pilot in this field needs to be proficient in drone operations, including navigation, flight planning, and safe landing.

They should also possess a keen sense of aesthetics and framing to capture compelling footage.

They should be familiar with cinematography concepts such as lighting, focus, and camera angles.

Familiarity with drone maintenance and troubleshooting is also crucial.

 

Do Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilots need a license?

Yes, they do.

They need to have a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which requires passing an aeronautical knowledge test.

Additionally, they must comply with all FAA regulations for operating drones for commercial purposes.

 

What should you look for in a Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot resume?

A Drone Pilot’s resume should include their FAA certification, any training in film production or cinematography, and experience in flying drones, especially in film production settings.

Look for any knowledge of editing software, as this can be a bonus.

References from past employers or projects can also give you an insight into their work ethic and skills.

 

What qualities make a good Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot?

A good Drone Pilot should be reliable, meticulous and have a keen eye for detail.

They should have a strong understanding of filmmaking and be able to work closely with directors and cinematographers to achieve the desired shots.

They should be able to operate under pressure and handle equipment safely and responsibly.

Adaptability is also key, as shooting conditions can change rapidly.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Cinematography and Film Production Drone Pilot?

Hiring a qualified Drone Pilot for film production can be a challenge due to the specific skill set required.

There’s a growing demand for these professionals as drone footage becomes more popular in film, television, and advertising.

Therefore, it’s important to offer competitive pay and benefits to attract the best candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken an illuminating journey into the exciting world of cinematography and film production drone piloting.

But guess what?

It’s not just about navigating drones.

It’s about painting cinematic masterpieces in the sky, one flight at a time.

With our comprehensive cinematography and film production drone pilot job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make a splash.

But why pause the action there?

Go beyond the horizon with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for creating razor-sharp listings or polishing your resume to Hollywood perfection.

Remember:

Every flight path is part of a larger cinematic vision.

Let’s create that vision. Together.

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