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Chief Uav Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Surveyor

Elko, NV ยท On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

... engineering, operations, and environmental teams. โ€ข Manage contractor survey services when ... UAV-based surveying and LiDAR technologies. โ€ข Proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling software.

UAV, laser scanning, or reality capture exposure * Large site development or DOT experience Pay and ... engineering, environmental, and construction services throughout the Midwest. We value integrity ...

Survey Crew Chief

Plymouth, MI ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

UAV, laser scanning, or reality capture exposure. Pay and Benefits * Paid overtime opportunities ... engineering, environmental, and construction services throughout the Midwest. We value integrity ...

As Needed Survey Crew Chief III

San Diego, CA ยท On-site +1

$43.30 - $56/hr

Duties and Responsibilities Field Surveys and UAV Operations * Independently performs highly ... Works closely with surveyors, engineers, and project managers to ensure survey deliverables meet ...

As Needed Survey Crew Chief III

San Diego, CA ยท On-site +1

$43.30 - $56/hr

Duties and Responsibilities Field Surveys and UAV Operations * Independently performs highly ... Works closely with surveyors, engineers, and project managers to ensure survey deliverables meet ...

Chief Surveyor

Elko, NV ยท On-site

Coordinate survey activities with mine planning, geology, engineering, operations, and ... Experience with UAV-based surveying and LiDAR technologies. * Proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling ...

Chief Surveyor

Elko, NV ยท On-site

Coordinate survey activities with mine planning, geology, engineering, operations, and ... Experience with UAV-based surveying and LiDAR technologies. * Proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling ...

Chief Surveyor

Elko, NV ยท On-site

Coordinate survey activities with mine planning, geology, engineering, operations, and ... Experience with UAV-based surveying and LiDAR technologies.Proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling ...

Chief Surveyor

Elko, NV ยท On-site

Coordinate survey activities with mine planning, geology, engineering, operations, and ... Experience with UAV-based surveying and LiDAR technologies. * Proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling ...

Chief Surveyor

Elko, NV ยท On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Coordinate survey activities with mine planning, geology, engineering, operations, and ... Experience with UAV-based surveying and LiDAR technologies. * Proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling ...

Chief Surveyor

Elko, NV ยท On-site

Coordinate survey activities with mine planning, geology, engineering, operations, and ... Experience with UAV-based surveying and LiDAR technologies. * Proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling ...

UAV, laser scanning, or reality capture exposure * Large site development or DOT experience Pay and ... About SME SME is an employee-owned consulting firm providing surveying, engineering, environmental ...

Survey Crew Chief

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$33.65/hr

At Verdantas, we're redefining environmental consulting and sustainable engineering through our use ... Execute terrestrial laser scanning and UAV collection projects. * Establish and verify project ...

TIC) is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients ... Supervise and mentor Project Managers, Survey Technicians, CAD Technicians, Crew Chiefs, Field ...

$100 - $125/hr

This role reports to the Chief Product & Technology Office and involves working closely with ... Support TAK/ATAK server integration and secure data dissemination across UAV platforms.

TIC) is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients ... Supervise and mentor Project Managers, Survey Technicians, CAD Technicians, Crew Chiefs, Field ...

Survey Group Manager

Charlotte, NC ยท On-site

$150 - $200/hr

TIC) is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients ... Supervise and mentor Project Managers, Survey Technicians, CAD Technicians, Crew Chiefs, Field ...

Create and maintain dynamic flight models for various UAV platforms to simulate and validate ... Founded by Stu Landesberg (former Founder & CEO of Grove Collaborative - IPO in 2022 at $1.7B) and ...

Showing results 41-60

Chief Uav Engineer information

See salary details

$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do chief uav engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief uav engineer in the United States is $92,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief UAV engineer?

Chief UAV Engineers are senior professionals responsible for overseeing the design, development, and deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones. They lead engineering teams, manage complex projects, and ensure that UAV systems meet technical, safety, and regulatory standards. Chief UAV Engineers typically collaborate with other departments, handle troubleshooting and optimization, and stay up-to-date with advancements in UAV technology. Their role is crucial in industries such as aerospace, defense, agriculture, and logistics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief UAV engineer?

To thrive as a Chief UAV Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, robotics, and flight systems, typically supported by an advanced engineering degree and industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software, UAV simulation tools, avionics systems, and certifications such as Part 107 Remote Pilot are highly valuable. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills that enable successful project management and cross-functional collaboration. These competencies ensure the design, development, and deployment of reliable UAV systems while meeting regulatory and safety standards.

What are some common challenges chief UAV engineers face when leading multidisciplinary teams?

Chief UAV Engineers often collaborate with professionals from various fields such as software, hardware, aerodynamics, and compliance. A common challenge is balancing technical depth with big-picture project management, ensuring all team members are aligned on goals and timelines. Effective communication, conflict resolution, and fostering a culture of innovation are key to overcoming these challenges. Additionally, staying current with rapidly evolving UAV technologies and regulatory requirements adds complexity to leadership responsibilities.

What is the difference between Chief Uav Engineer vs Uav Systems Engineer?

AspectChief Uav EngineerUav Systems Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, UAV certifications, leadership experienceEngineering degree, UAV certifications, technical expertise
Work EnvironmentProject management, team leadership, strategic planningDesign, development, testing of UAV systems
Industry UsageLeadership roles in UAV projects, overseeing teamsTechnical roles focused on UAV system development
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership and management in UAV engineeringTechnical development and system design of UAVs

The Chief Uav Engineer typically oversees UAV projects, manages teams, and ensures strategic goals are met, requiring leadership and management skills. In contrast, a Uav Systems Engineer focuses on designing, developing, and testing UAV systems, emphasizing technical expertise. Both roles require UAV-specific certifications and engineering backgrounds, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are popular job titles related to Chief Uav Engineer jobs?

For Chief Uav Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Chief Uav Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Survey Crew Chief

Indianapolis, IN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

*This position will report to our Indianapolis, IN office.


HWC Engineering is currently seeking an energetic, adaptable, and solution-oriented person who will be able to take and follow instructions but also be able to think independently, as a Survey Crew Chief. The ideal candidate will be able to work autonomously and remotely and lead a field crew performing boundary, topography, ALTA, right of way, and construction surveys for public and private clients on large energy and transportation projects.

HWC Engineering’s Survey Department works closely with other departments to provide quality deliverables for projects across all our engineering related public and private clients. We offer a full range of survey and geospatial data and mapping services that enable us to collect data faster, safer, and more accurately than ever before. 

WHAT YOU’LL DO 

  • Fieldwork Leadership: Lead and oversee a surveying crew in the performance of field surveys, ALTA/NSPS land title, boundary marking, topographic mapping, and other surveying tasks.
  • Data Collection: Operate surveying equipment, including total stations, GPS receivers, and data collectors, to accurately measure and record survey data. 
  • Quality Control: Ensure the data collected meets quality and accuracy standards, making necessary adjustments and re-measurements as required.
  • Project Planning: Assist in the planning and scheduling of surveying projects, considering factors like weather conditions, equipment maintenance, and resource allocation. 
  • Safety: Enforce safety protocols and best practices in the field to maintain a safe working environment for the crew. 
  • Client Interaction: Communicate with clients on-site to address any concerns or questions, fostering positive client relationships. 
  • Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of survey data, field notes, and equipment maintenance. 
  • Crew Training: Provide guidance and training to surveying technicians to improve their skills and ensure consistent data collection practices. 
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance on surveying equipment to ensure its proper functioning. 

WHAT YOU NEED

  • Experience with Robotic Total Station and data collection.
  • Experience with RTK GPS.
  • Ability to work alone and with other employees.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • 2+ years of land surveying experience as a crew chief/party chief or 5+ years of experience as an instrument operator 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience with AutoCAD
  • UAV license 

Why Work with Us

At HWC Engineering, our foundation is built upon a vibrant culture that celebrates diversity, collaboration, and innovation. We believe in creating an environment where every individual feels valued, supported, and inspired to thrive. 

  • The strength of our company lies in the well-being & growth of our employees. That's why we prioritize professional development, providing avenues for continuous learning & career advancement.
  • Our culture isn't just a statement; it's the fabric that binds us together, guiding us as we navigate challenges, celebrate successes, & create a workplace where everyone feels empowered to excel. We are humbled to have been named a Best Place to Work in Indiana by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce from 2016 – 2026; 11 years in a row!
  • Collaboration is more than a buzzword for us; it's ingrained in our DNA. Teamwork is at the core of our success, and we celebrate the achievements of each member, knowing that our collective efforts lead to exceptional outcomes.
  • Embrace freedom! We promote work life balance with tailored schedules & flexible work environment with remote, hybrid in-office, and/or full-time in office workspaces offered dependent upon position / situation (and ability to work from home). 
  • Experience an exceptional salary package with performance-driven bonuses and recognition that outshines the rest!


ABOUT HWC

HWC Engineering is a full-service consulting engineering firm that provides water, wastewater, stormwater, transportation, inspection, site engineering, survey, landscape architecture and planning services to both the public and private sectors.

Founded in 1989 in Terre Haute, Indiana, HWC has additional offices in Indianapolis, Lafayette, Muncie, North Vernon, Hammond and New Albany, allowing us to provide professional engineering services to clients throughout Indiana and the Midwest.

HWC is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) that does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, age, gender or any status protected by federal, state or local laws. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, competence and performance.