
ROV PILOT
An ROV Pilot/Technician is a specialist responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) used in offshore and subsea operations. From a dedicated control room onboard a vessel, they pilot underwater robots to carry out inspections, surveys, construction support, maintenance, and intervention tasks in environments that are often too deep or hazardous for divers. Combining technical expertise with precision piloting skills, ROV Pilot/Technicians play a vital role in supporting offshore energy, renewable energy, subsea construction, telecommunications, and scientific research projects around the world.
The Basics
Salary Range
Trainee: $2,000 – $4,000/month
Pilot Technician: $5,000 – $10,000/month
Senior Pilot: $8,000 – $15,000/month
Entry Path
Technical qualification.
Offshore safety training.
Join ROV company.
Complete pilot technician development.
Required Certifications
BOSIET
Offshore Medical
STCW (where applicable)
Technical Qualification
Typical Timeline
Trainee to Pilot: 1–3 years
Senior Pilot: 5–10 years
Day in the Life
Pilot ROV systems
Conduct subsea inspections
Troubleshoot equipment
Perform maintenance
Support offshore operations
Progression Ladder
Trainee
↓
Junior Pilot Technician
↓
Pilot Technician
↓
Senior Pilot
↓
ROV Supervisor