About Skycatch Skycatch is transforming mining with high-accuracy drone mapping, AI-powered ... contract renewals/expansion. * Collaborate closely with sales, product, and engineering teams to ...
About Skycatch Skycatch is transforming mining with high-accuracy drone mapping, AI-powered ... contract renewals/expansion. * Collaborate closely with sales, product, and engineering teams to ...
About Skycatch Skycatch is transforming mining with high-accuracy drone mapping, AI-powered ... contract renewals/expansion. * Collaborate closely with sales, product, and engineering teams to ...
Quick apply
About Skycatch Skycatch is transforming mining with high-accuracy drone mapping, AI-powered ... contract renewals/expansion. * Collaborate closely with sales, product, and engineering teams to ...
About Skycatch Skycatch is transforming mining with high-accuracy drone mapping, AI-powered ... contract renewals/expansion. * Collaborate closely with sales, product, and engineering teams to ...
About Skycatch Skycatch is transforming mining with high-accuracy drone mapping, AI-powered ... contract renewals/expansion. * Collaborate closely with sales, product, and engineering teams to ...
Drone Project Superintendent
Hamilton, OH · On-site
... rope access), contract maintenance, employee health and welfare, obligations of performance ... engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring ...
Drone Project Superintendent
Hamilton, OH · On-site
... rope access), contract maintenance, employee health and welfare, obligations of performance ... engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring ...
Drone Project Superintendent
Hamilton, OH · On-site
... rope access), contract maintenance, employee health and welfare, obligations of performance ... engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring ...
Drone Project Superintendent
Hamilton, OH · On-site
... rope access), contract maintenance, employee health and welfare, obligations of performance ... engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring ...
... rope access), contract maintenance, employee health and welfare, obligations of performance ... engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring ...
... rope access), contract maintenance, employee health and welfare, obligations of performance ... engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring ...
Systems Engineer
$56 - $60/hr
Investigate and resolve complex system failures affecting drone and payload operations. * Analyze ... This is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...
Systems Engineer
$56 - $60/hr
Investigate and resolve complex system failures affecting drone and payload operations. * Analyze ... This is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...
The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for drone hardware and structures. This position requires a ... suppliers, or contract manufacturers The ideal candidate would also have experience with the ...
The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for drone hardware and structures. This position requires a ... suppliers, or contract manufacturers The ideal candidate would also have experience with the ...
Construction Engineer I (Temp-to-Hire)
OR · On-site +1
Assistwith field execution of drone flights, data collection, and upload processes as required by ... Ensure pile test documentation aligns with contract requirements, industry standards, and ...
Construction Engineer I (Temp-to-Hire)
OR · On-site +1
Assistwith field execution of drone flights, data collection, and upload processes as required by ... Ensure pile test documentation aligns with contract requirements, industry standards, and ...
Electrical Design Engineer
New York, NY · On-site
About Us ZeroMark builds AI-driven counter-drone systems that actually work in combat. No ... We've doubled year-over-year for two straight years, winning contracts that prove what we've always ...
Electrical Design Engineer
New York, NY · On-site
About Us ZeroMark builds AI-driven counter-drone systems that actually work in combat. No ... We've doubled year-over-year for two straight years, winning contracts that prove what we've always ...
Assistwith field execution of drone flights, data collection, and upload processes as required by ... Ensure pile test documentation aligns with contract requirements, industry standards, and ...
Assistwith field execution of drone flights, data collection, and upload processes as required by ... Ensure pile test documentation aligns with contract requirements, industry standards, and ...
Software Engineer, Rust
Washington, DC · On-site
We build Altra, an AI-powered drone software platform, and HX-2, our autonomous drone. We are ... contracts * We actively encourage healthy, proactive, and diverse debate internally about what we ...
Software Engineer, Rust
Washington, DC · On-site
We build Altra, an AI-powered drone software platform, and HX-2, our autonomous drone. We are ... contracts * We actively encourage healthy, proactive, and diverse debate internally about what we ...
Software Engineer, Rust
Washington, DC · On-site +1
We build Altra, an AI-powered drone software platform, and HX-2, our autonomous drone. We are ... contracts * We actively encourage healthy, proactive, and diverse debate internally about what we ...
Software Engineer, Rust
Washington, DC · On-site +1
We build Altra, an AI-powered drone software platform, and HX-2, our autonomous drone. We are ... contracts * We actively encourage healthy, proactive, and diverse debate internally about what we ...
Mechanical Engineer
Ellenton, FL · On-site
The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for drone hardware and structures. This position requires a ... suppliers, or contract manufacturers The ideal candidate would also have experience with the ...
Mechanical Engineer
Ellenton, FL · On-site
The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for drone hardware and structures. This position requires a ... suppliers, or contract manufacturers The ideal candidate would also have experience with the ...
Mechanical Engineer
Ellenton, FL · On-site
The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for drone hardware and structures. This position requires a ... suppliers, or contract manufacturers The ideal candidate would also have experience with the ...
Quick apply
Mechanical Engineer
Ellenton, FL · On-site
The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for drone hardware and structures. This position requires a ... suppliers, or contract manufacturers The ideal candidate would also have experience with the ...
Computer Vision Engineer (Object Detection & Tracking)
New York, NY · On-site
$122K - $143K/yr
About Us ZeroMark builds AI-driven counter-drone systems that actually work in combat. No ... We've doubled year-over-year for two straight years, winning contracts that prove what we've always ...
Computer Vision Engineer (Object Detection & Tracking)
New York, NY · On-site
$122K - $143K/yr
About Us ZeroMark builds AI-driven counter-drone systems that actually work in combat. No ... We've doubled year-over-year for two straight years, winning contracts that prove what we've always ...
Electrical Engineer
Palmetto, FL · On-site
... or contract manufacturers (DFM/DFT considerations) Experience working with or integrating open ... Experience with drone, robotics, or aerospace systems Familiarity with ESCs, motor control, or high ...
Electrical Engineer
Palmetto, FL · On-site
... or contract manufacturers (DFM/DFT considerations) Experience working with or integrating open ... Experience with drone, robotics, or aerospace systems Familiarity with ESCs, motor control, or high ...
Drone Pilot - Clearance Required
Fort Bragg, CA · On-site
$103K - $179K/yr
Rapid capability iteration with engineers and developers You will serve as a key operational test ... contract requirements, and candidate qualifications, such as education, experience, skills, and ...
Drone Pilot - Clearance Required
Fort Bragg, CA · On-site
$103K - $179K/yr
Rapid capability iteration with engineers and developers You will serve as a key operational test ... contract requirements, and candidate qualifications, such as education, experience, skills, and ...
Drone Pilot - Clearance Required
$103K - $179K/yr
Rapid capability iteration with engineers and developers You will serve as a key operational test ... contract requirements, and candidate qualifications, such as education, experience, skills, and ...
Drone Pilot - Clearance Required
$103K - $179K/yr
Rapid capability iteration with engineers and developers You will serve as a key operational test ... contract requirements, and candidate qualifications, such as education, experience, skills, and ...
Mechanical Design Engineer
New York, NY · On-site
$83K - $112K/yr
About Us ZeroMark builds AI-driven counter-drone systems that actually work in combat. No ... We've doubled year-over-year for two straight years, winning contracts that prove what we've always ...
Mechanical Design Engineer
New York, NY · On-site
$83K - $112K/yr
About Us ZeroMark builds AI-driven counter-drone systems that actually work in combat. No ... We've doubled year-over-year for two straight years, winning contracts that prove what we've always ...
Contract Drone Engineer information
See salary details
$30.05 - $36.32
6% of jobs
$40.66 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$36.32 - $42.59
27% of jobs
The median wage is $45.54 / hr.
$42.59 - $48.86
35% of jobs
$50.26 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$48.86 - $55.14
28% of jobs
$55.14 - $61.41
2% of jobs
$61.41 - $67.68
0% of jobs
$67.68 - $73.95
0% of jobs
$73.95 - $80.22
0% of jobs
$80.22 - $86.49
0% of jobs
$86.49 - $92.77
0% of jobs
$92.77 - $99.04
1% of jobs
$30
$48
$99
How much do contract drone engineer jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract drone engineer in the United States is $48.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.11 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Contract Drone Engineer vs Contract UAV Technician?
| Aspect | Contract Drone Engineer | Contract UAV Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Relevant engineering degrees, certifications like Part 107, FAA licenses | Technical certifications, FAA Part 107, drone operation licenses |
| Work Environment | Design, development, testing, and integration of drone systems | Maintenance, repair, and operational support of UAVs in the field |
| Industry Usage | Aerospace, defense, research, commercial drone development | Surveying, agriculture, inspection, and field operations |
Contract Drone Engineers focus on designing and developing drone systems, often working in labs or offices, while Contract UAV Technicians handle field maintenance and operational tasks. Both roles require FAA certifications and technical skills, but their daily activities and work environments differ significantly.
How much does a contract drone engineer make?
A contract drone engineer typically earns between $30 and $80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates may vary based on skills such as UAV operation, programming, and certification requirements.
What are some common challenges faced by contract drone engineers when working with multiple clients?
Contract Drone Engineers often juggle projects for various clients, each with unique requirements, timelines, and operational protocols. This can make prioritizing tasks and managing expectations challenging, especially when adapting to different drone platforms or regulatory environments. Success in this role typically depends on strong communication skills, flexibility, and the ability to quickly learn new systems or workflows. Building good client relationships and maintaining organized documentation can help navigate these challenges and ensure project milestones are met.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract drone engineer?
To thrive as a Contract Drone Engineer, you need expertise in UAV design, aerodynamics, electronics, and programming, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, flight control systems, and certifications such as Part 107 Remote Pilot License are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top professionals apart. These skills and qualifications ensure reliable drone development, regulatory compliance, and successful project delivery in this rapidly evolving field.
Is contract drone engineering a good career?
Contract drone engineering is a viable career option for individuals with skills in aeronautics, electronics, and programming, often involving project-based work and flexible schedules. It requires knowledge of drone systems, regulatory compliance, and sometimes certifications, making it suitable for those interested in technology and aviation industries.
What is a contract drone engineer?
Contract Drone Engineers are professionals who design, build, program, and maintain unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones on a contractual basis. They typically work for companies or organizations on specific projects, providing expertise in areas such as drone hardware, software, flight systems, and data analysis. Unlike full-time employees, contract engineers are usually hired for a set period or for particular tasks, offering flexibility and specialized skills to clients. Their work can span industries like agriculture, construction, surveying, cinematography, and defense.
More about Contract Drone Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Drone Engineer jobs?
Cities with the most Contract Drone Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Engineer jobs?
The most popular types of Drone Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Drone Engineer jobs?
States with the most job openings for Contract Drone Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Drone Engineer jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Contract Drone Engineer jobs are:
Full-time
Re-posted 9 days ago
Job description
About Skycatch
Skycatch is transforming mining with high-accuracy drone mapping, AI-powered analytics, and automation tools that enable safer, more efficient, and more sustainable operations.
Our solutions are deployed in top global mining companies and we're a trusted partner to industry leaders like Caterpillar and NVIDIA, helping mines transition toward autonomy, precision planning, and near-real-time decision-making.
We're looking for a Solutions Engineer who's as comfortable walking a haul road in steel-toe boots as presenting ROI-driven analytics in the boardroom. You'll be the bridge between real mining pains and cutting-edge Skycatch technology.
What You'll Do
- Lead proof of concepts and demos at mine sites worldwide, showing how Skycatch's drone automation and geospatial analytics solve real operational problems.
- Map customer pain points (haul road compliance, mine plan validation, stockpile accuracy, highwall safety) to Skycatch workflows and business outcomes.
- Design and present technical proposals that clearly communicate ROI and operational impact.
- Deliver onboarding & training to surveyors, engineers, operations, and safety teams so Skycatch becomes part of their daily workflow.
- Ensure customer success post-deployment, monitoring usage, surfacing new use cases, and supporting contract renewals/expansion.
- Collaborate closely with sales, product, and engineering teams to bring customer feedback into future Skycatch innovations.
What We're Looking For
- 5+ years in mining operations, ideally in mine planning, surveying, geotechnical, or production engineering.
- Familiarity with open-pit mining workflows, safety standards, and operational KPIs.
- Experience with survey/GIS tools (RTK GPS, LiDAR, photogrammetry, ArcGIS, Vulcan, Deswik, MineStar, Hexagon, or similar).
- Ability to
connect operational metrics (e.g., truck availability, fuel burn, downtime) to technical solutions.
Skills & Traits
- Confident presenting to both frontline crews and C-suite executives.
- Hands-on technologist, comfortable flying a drone, troubleshooting network connectivity, or configuring software in the field.
- Problem solver who thrives in dynamic, high-pressure environments.
- Willingness to travel frequently to customer sites worldwide.
Why Join Us
- Be part of a global leader in mining digitization and autonomy enablement.
- Work with cutting-edge technology - autonomous drone systems, AI analytics, real-time data processing.
- Make a tangible impact on safety, productivity, and sustainability in mining.
- Collaborate with some of the biggest names in mining and heavy equipment manufacturing.
About Skycatch
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
It services
Company size
11 - 50 Employees
Headquarters location
San Francisco, CA, US
Year founded
2013