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Aerial Engineer Jobs in Temecula, CA (NOW HIRING)

UAV Electrical Engineer

San Clemente, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated UAV Electrical Engineer to design, integrate, and own the complete electrical architecture of advanced unmanned aerial vehicle systems. This role is critical to the ...

UAV Mechanical Engineer

San Clemente, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Description Overview We are seeking an experienced UAV Mechanical Engineer to support the design, development, and integration of unmanned aerial vehicle structures and mechanisms. This role focuses ...

UAV Test Engineer

San Clemente, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated UAV Test Engineer to plan, execute, and analyze test activities for advanced unmanned aerial vehicle systems. This role works closely with the design and engineering ...

Test Engineer II

Vista, CA ยท On-site

$106K - $150K/yr

As a Test Engineer at Inversion, you will play a critical role in the design, functionality, and ... Test high-performance accurate landing and recovery systems through ground test and aerial drop ...

With operators and engineers under one roof, we close the gap between lab and field-what we call ... aerial refueling (AAR) capabilities, ensuring the readiness and operational effectiveness of the ...

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Aerial Engineer information

See Temecula, CA salary details

$43.7K

$105.7K

$172.4K

How much do aerial engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial engineer in Temecula, CA is $105,695.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $131,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerial engineer?

Aerial Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain aerial systems and equipment, often related to telecommunications, broadcasting, or unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). Their work typically involves installing and servicing antennas, towers, and related infrastructure to ensure reliable signal transmission. They may also be involved in planning and executing aerial surveys or inspections, and troubleshooting technical issues in the field. Aerial Engineers often work at heights and must follow strict safety protocols. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and physical fitness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerial engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerial Engineer, you need a solid background in aeronautical engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and, in some cases, a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, simulation tools, and industry-specific standards is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set top performers apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing safe, efficient aerial systems and ensuring project success in a highly technical and regulated field.

How does an aerial engineer typically collaborate with other teams during a project?

Aerial Engineers frequently work alongside multidisciplinary teams, including surveyors, project managers, and construction crews, to ensure that aerial installations meet safety and quality standards. They are involved in coordinating site assessments, sharing technical specifications, and troubleshooting issues as projects progress. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Aerial Engineers must align their work with broader project timelines and regulatory requirements. This collaborative approach helps ensure successful project delivery and fosters a supportive work environment.

What is the difference between Aerial Engineer vs Drone Pilot?

AspectAerial EngineerDrone Pilot
CertificationsEngineering degree, FAA Part 107 (if applicable)FAA Part 107 certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial facilities, infrastructure projectsOpen fields, urban areas, event venues
Employer & IndustryEngineering firms, construction companies, government agenciesMedia, agriculture, real estate, film production

While both roles involve working with aerial devices, Aerial Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and maintaining aerial systems, often requiring engineering credentials. Drone Pilots operate drones primarily for photography, surveying, or inspection, typically needing FAA certification. The roles differ in scope, environment, and industry application, but both are essential in aerial operations.

Infographic showing various Aerial Engineer job openings in Temecula, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,695 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

UAV Electrical Engineer

Swift Engineering

San Clemente, CA โ€ข On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated UAV Electrical Engineer to design, integrate, and own the complete electrical architecture of advanced unmanned aerial vehicle systems. This role is critical to the performance, reliability, and scalability of the UAV platform and requires close collaboration with a small, high-performance engineering team.
The ideal candidate is hands-on, self-driven, and comfortable taking full ownership of complex electrical systems from concept through flight.
Salary Range: $130,000 to $150,000
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and validate the complete electrical network of the UAV
  • Design and review custom circuit boards (PCB design) for avionics, power distribution, payloads, and communication systems
  • Own all radio communication systems, including command & control, telemetry, and payload data links
  • Integrate and manage battery management systems (BMS) and power electronics
  • Support integration of onboard payloads and sensors
  • Collaborate closely with avionics, software, mechanical, and systems engineering teams
  • Support system integration, ground testing, and flight testing activities
  • Perform troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and iterative design improvements
  • Develop and maintain electrical documentation, schematics, wiring diagrams, and interface definitions

What we Offer
  • Full system ownership and technical leadership responsibility
  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge UAV platforms
  • Collaborative, high-performance engineering culture
  • Direct impact on vehicle capability and mission success

Required Qualifications
  • B.S. in Electrical Engineering
  • 5+ years of experience in electrical engineering for UAVs, aerospace, robotics, or complex embedded systems
  • Strong experience with circuit board design, schematic capture, and layout
  • Solid understanding of UAV communication systems and RF integration
  • Experience with power distribution, power electronics, and battery systems
  • Ability to work effectively in a small, fast-paced, high-performance team environment
  • Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of owning systems end-to-end

Preferred Qualified
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or related field
  • Familiarity with solar power systems, energy harvesting, or long-endurance platforms
  • Experience with avionics integration and EMI/EMC considerations
  • Background in UAV, aerospace, or high-reliability systems
  • Experience supporting flight test and operational deployments

Benefits
  • 9/80 Schedule
  • Medical Insurance
  • Vision Insurance - 100% covered for Employees
  • Dental Insurance - 100% covered for Employees
  • Life Insurance - 100% covered by Swift, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
  • 401k with company match
  • Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a holiday hiatus in December, and highly competitive PTO plans.
  • 16 weeks of paid Caregiver & Wellness Leave to care for a family member, bond with your baby, or tend to your own medical condition.
  • Family Planning & Parenting Support: Fertility (eg, IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carrier coverage with additional benefits and resources to provide support from planning to parenting.

About Swift Engineering
If you're passionate about engineering, innovation and making a difference, we invite you to join the Swift Engineering family. Together, we are shaping the future of aerospace and creating technologies that will change the world.
The pay range for this role is:
130,000 - 150,000 USD per year (Swift Engineering)