Software Engineer, Rust
Washington, DC · On-site
They are seeking a Software Engineer proficient in Rust to work on their Altra drone software platform, focusing on designing and building systems-level software for autonomous capabilities.
Software Engineer, Rust
Washington, DC · On-site
They are seeking a Software Engineer proficient in Rust to work on their Altra drone software platform, focusing on designing and building systems-level software for autonomous capabilities.
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 ...
Senior Software Engineer
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$135K - $177K/yr
They are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design and develop software for unmanned aerial ... with Drone software (such as Ardupilot, Betaflight). • Familiarity with defense software ...
Senior Software Engineer
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$135K - $177K/yr
They are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design and develop software for unmanned aerial ... with Drone software (such as Ardupilot, Betaflight). • Familiarity with defense software ...
General Software 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 ...
General Software 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 ...
Embedded Software Engineer
Salt Lake City, UT · On-site
$127K - $167K/yr
This is a unique opportunity to work hands-on with cutting-edge drone technology in a fast-paced ... Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave. Note: Pay is ...
Embedded Software Engineer
Salt Lake City, UT · On-site
$127K - $167K/yr
This is a unique opportunity to work hands-on with cutting-edge drone technology in a fast-paced ... Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave. Note: Pay is ...
Embedded Software Engineer
Tampa, FL · On-site
$124K - $163K/yr
Description XTEND Tampa is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to support the development, integration, and production of autonomous drone systems. This role focuses on hands-on embedded software ...
Embedded Software Engineer
Tampa, FL · On-site
$124K - $163K/yr
Description XTEND Tampa is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to support the development, integration, and production of autonomous drone systems. This role focuses on hands-on embedded software ...
Drone Data Engineer
Houston, TX · On-site
$109K - $131K/yr
Contract * Drone Data Execution Engineer Skydio * Drone Operations Data Execution * Plan execute and optimize drone missions for inspection surveillance mapping and monitoring use cases * Ensure ...
Quick apply
Drone Data Engineer
Houston, TX · On-site
$109K - $131K/yr
Contract * Drone Data Execution Engineer Skydio * Drone Operations Data Execution * Plan execute and optimize drone missions for inspection surveillance mapping and monitoring use cases * Ensure ...
Senior Software Engineer
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$133K - $176K/yr
About the Role We are looking for experienced energetic software engineers to join our growing team ... Experience with Drone software (such as Ardupilot, Betaflight). * Familiarity with defense software ...
Senior Software Engineer
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$133K - $176K/yr
About the Role We are looking for experienced energetic software engineers to join our growing team ... Experience with Drone software (such as Ardupilot, Betaflight). * Familiarity with defense software ...
Senior Software Engineer
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD · On-site
$131K - $172K/yr
... contract. The position supports Engineering and Technical Support (ETS) activities for a broad ... UAV/drone platforms, motors, and control systems Requirements: MUST HAVE * Senior: Minimum of ten ...
Senior Software Engineer
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD · On-site
$131K - $172K/yr
... contract. The position supports Engineering and Technical Support (ETS) activities for a broad ... UAV/drone platforms, motors, and control systems Requirements: MUST HAVE * Senior: Minimum of ten ...
Senior Software Engineer
Aberdeen, MD · On-site
$150 - $180/hr
... contract. The position supports Engineering and Technical Support (ETS) activities for a broad ... UAV/drone platforms, motors, and control systems Requirements Requirements: MUST HAVE * Senior:
Senior Software Engineer
Aberdeen, MD · On-site
$150 - $180/hr
... contract. The position supports Engineering and Technical Support (ETS) activities for a broad ... UAV/drone platforms, motors, and control systems Requirements Requirements: MUST HAVE * Senior:
Senior Software Engineer
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD · On-site
$131K - $172K/yr
... contract. The position supports Engineering and Technical Support (ETS) activities for a broad ... UAV/drone platforms, motors, and control systems Requirements Requirements: MUST HAVE * Senior:
Senior Software Engineer
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD · On-site
$131K - $172K/yr
... contract. The position supports Engineering and Technical Support (ETS) activities for a broad ... UAV/drone platforms, motors, and control systems Requirements Requirements: MUST HAVE * Senior:
Software Engineer
Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... Seven (7) years of experience as a SWE, in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and ...
Quick apply
Software Engineer
Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... Seven (7) years of experience as a SWE, in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and ...
Software Engineer
Annapolis, MD · On-site
$50K - $120K/yr
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... Seven (7) years of experience as a SWE, in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and ...
Software Engineer
Annapolis, MD · On-site
$50K - $120K/yr
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... Seven (7) years of experience as a SWE, in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and ...
The Drone Delivery team is focused on bringing the dream of fast, efficient, and delightful last ... Engineering, Robotics, or a related field. * 5+ years of industry experience in software ...
The Drone Delivery team is focused on bringing the dream of fast, efficient, and delightful last ... Engineering, Robotics, or a related field. * 5+ years of industry experience in software ...
Principal Software Engineer
Columbia, MD · On-site
$134K - $179K/yr
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Quick apply
Principal Software Engineer
Columbia, MD · On-site
$134K - $179K/yr
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Principal Software Engineer
Columbia, MD · On-site
$134K - $179K/yr
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Principal Software Engineer
Columbia, MD · On-site
$134K - $179K/yr
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Quick apply
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Cloud Software Engineer
Annapolis, MD · On-site
$180K - $230K/yr
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Cloud Software Engineer
Annapolis, MD · On-site
$180K - $230K/yr
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Quick apply
Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ... on a remote contract and never seen or heard from the mothership again? * Our engineers were ...
Contract Drone Software Engineer information
See salary details
$63.5K - $76.4K
2% of jobs
$76.4K - $89.3K
4% of jobs
$89.3K - $102.2K
6% of jobs
$102.2K - $115.1K
8% of jobs
$122.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$115.1K - $128K
7% of jobs
$128K - $141K
18% of jobs
The median wage is $144K / yr.
$141K - $153.9K
16% of jobs
$153.9K - $166.8K
2% of jobs
$172.1K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$166.8K - $179.7K
26% of jobs
$179.7K - $192.6K
1% of jobs
$192.6K - $205.5K
8% of jobs
$63.5K
$147.5K
$205.5K
How much do contract drone software engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract drone software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract drone software engineer, and why are they important?
To excel as a Contract Drone Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (often in Python, C++, or Java), experience with embedded systems, and a background in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with drone-specific development platforms (such as PX4, ArduPilot), flight control systems, and version control tools like Git is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and effective communication skills help you address unique client needs and collaborate remotely. These competencies are crucial for delivering reliable, innovative drone solutions on time and within project specifications.
What are some common challenges faced by contract drone software engineers when integrating new software with existing drone hardware?
Contract Drone Software Engineers often encounter challenges ensuring compatibility between custom software solutions and a variety of drone hardware platforms. Differences in firmware, sensor configurations, and communication protocols can require significant troubleshooting and adaptation. Additionally, maintaining real-time performance and safety standards while working under tight project deadlines can be demanding. Effective collaboration with hardware engineers and clear documentation practices are essential for overcoming these integration hurdles.
What is a contract drone software engineer?
Contract Drone Software Engineers are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and maintain software systems for drones (unmanned aerial vehicles). They typically work on tasks such as flight control, navigation, data processing, and integration with hardware components. These engineers may collaborate with clients in industries like agriculture, defense, delivery, or surveying to deliver custom drone solutions. Their roles often require expertise in programming languages, embedded systems, robotics, and sometimes compliance with aviation regulations.
What is the difference between Contract Drone Software Engineer vs Contract UAV Software Developer?
| Aspect | Contract Drone Software Engineer | Contract UAV Software Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Relevant certifications in drone technology, software development | Similar certifications in UAV systems, software engineering |
| Work Environment | Typically in aerospace, defense, or commercial drone companies | Often in aerospace, research labs, or defense contractors |
| Industry Usage | Used in commercial, military, and recreational drone projects | Primarily in military, research, and commercial UAV applications |
| Search Intent | Looking for drone-specific software engineering roles | Searching for UAV or unmanned aerial vehicle software development jobs |
Both roles involve developing software for unmanned aerial systems, but the Contract Drone Software Engineer typically focuses on commercial and recreational drones, while the Contract UAV Software Developer often works on military or research UAV projects. The skills and certifications overlap significantly, but the industry context and application focus differ slightly.
What cities are hiring for Contract Drone Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Drone Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Drone Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Drone Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Drone Software Engineer jobs include:
Full-time
Re-posted 23 days ago
Job description
Job Summary:
Helsing develops artificial intelligence-enabled capabilities to protect and defend democracies. They are seeking a Software Engineer proficient in Rust to work on their Altra drone software platform, focusing on designing and building systems-level software for autonomous capabilities.
Responsibilities:
• Designing, building, and maintaining Rust services across the Altra platform
• Collaborating with ML engineers to integrate AI/ML pipelines into the broader system
• Working across the stack, from networking and protocol implementation to application-level services
• Contributing to increasingly advanced autonomy features
• Developing and testing software using simulation environments
• Writing software that must perform reliably on resource-constrained platforms under real-world constraints
Qualifications:
Required:
• Have 5+ years of experience in systems-level software engineering
• Have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
• Are proficient in Rust, or have strong experience in C++ or another systems-level compiled language with a willingness to work in Rust daily
• Have experience building distributed systems, particularly in unreliable or constrained network environments
• Have worked with real-time or low-latency systems where performance and reliability are critical
• Have experience with at least one or two areas relevant to our stack: video streaming, pub/sub messaging, sensor data processing, embedded systems, protocol design, or robotics
• Have designed or built systems that interface with AI/ML pipelines — streaming data to models, handling inference outputs, managing pipeline orchestration
• Are familiar with Python, particularly for interfacing with ML/AI components
• Are a U.S. citizen eligible to obtain a security clearance
Preferred:
• Direct experience with Rust in production systems
• Background in robotics, autonomous vehicles, or drone systems
• Experience with sensor fusion or multi-sensor data processing
• Familiarity with swarming, multi-agent systems, or decentralized coordination algorithms
• Experience with constrained or embedded platforms
• Familiarity with Nix or NixOS for reproducible builds and development environments
• Experience with SITL/HITL (Software/Hardware-In-The-Loop) simulation and testing frameworks for autonomous systems
• Experience with RF communications, telemetry, or datalink systems
• Background in defense or national security
Company:
Helsing develops artificial intelligence software, autonomous systems, and defense technologies for military and government applications. It is a sub-organization of Helsing. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Munich, DEU, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.
Helsing develops artificial intelligence-enabled capabilities to protect and defend democracies. They are seeking a Software Engineer proficient in Rust to work on their Altra drone software platform, focusing on designing and building systems-level software for autonomous capabilities.
Responsibilities:
• Designing, building, and maintaining Rust services across the Altra platform
• Collaborating with ML engineers to integrate AI/ML pipelines into the broader system
• Working across the stack, from networking and protocol implementation to application-level services
• Contributing to increasingly advanced autonomy features
• Developing and testing software using simulation environments
• Writing software that must perform reliably on resource-constrained platforms under real-world constraints
Qualifications:
Required:
• Have 5+ years of experience in systems-level software engineering
• Have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
• Are proficient in Rust, or have strong experience in C++ or another systems-level compiled language with a willingness to work in Rust daily
• Have experience building distributed systems, particularly in unreliable or constrained network environments
• Have worked with real-time or low-latency systems where performance and reliability are critical
• Have experience with at least one or two areas relevant to our stack: video streaming, pub/sub messaging, sensor data processing, embedded systems, protocol design, or robotics
• Have designed or built systems that interface with AI/ML pipelines — streaming data to models, handling inference outputs, managing pipeline orchestration
• Are familiar with Python, particularly for interfacing with ML/AI components
• Are a U.S. citizen eligible to obtain a security clearance
Preferred:
• Direct experience with Rust in production systems
• Background in robotics, autonomous vehicles, or drone systems
• Experience with sensor fusion or multi-sensor data processing
• Familiarity with swarming, multi-agent systems, or decentralized coordination algorithms
• Experience with constrained or embedded platforms
• Familiarity with Nix or NixOS for reproducible builds and development environments
• Experience with SITL/HITL (Software/Hardware-In-The-Loop) simulation and testing frameworks for autonomous systems
• Experience with RF communications, telemetry, or datalink systems
• Background in defense or national security
Company:
Helsing develops artificial intelligence software, autonomous systems, and defense technologies for military and government applications. It is a sub-organization of Helsing. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Munich, DEU, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.