ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drone Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Neros Technologies

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA

$91K - $127K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We design and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are tested in combat, iterated at startup ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We design and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are tested in combat, iterated at startup ...

Staffingine LLC

Drone Data Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$109K - $131K/yr

Design and implement integrations using Skydio APIs for * Mission planning automation * Flight data retrieval * Media videoimage ingestion * Telemetry and metadata extraction * Integrate Skydio drone ...

Kiewit Corporation

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX

Support survey planning activities, including flight path design and scheduling * Perform pre ... Experience with drone tools * Working knowledge of survey equipment and techniques (GPS, total ...

Northstar Energy Services

Drone Pilot

Midland, TX · On-site

PWR) company, is based in Channelview, TX and provides engineering, design, procurement ... The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate ...

Bear Country Inc

Drone Show Pilot/Driver

Caledonia, WI · On-site

Drone Show Pilot and Driver Northern Lights Drone Show is looking for a Drone Show Pilot and Driver ... Will use Verge Aero Design Studio software. Familiarity with this software is not required (but a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrone Design Jobs

Drone Design information

See salary details

$14

$35

$55

How much do drone design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone design in the United States is $35.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.16 and $40.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Drone Design position, and why are they important?

Excelling in Drone Design requires expertise in aerodynamics, mechanical/electrical engineering, CAD modeling, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, simulation software, and knowledge of FAA regulations or UAS certifications is highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective teamwork enable designers to innovate and communicate ideas efficiently. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and cutting-edge drone solutions in a competitive and fast-evolving field.

How to become a drone designer?

To become a drone designer, you typically need a background in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering, along with skills in CAD software and knowledge of drone components. Gaining experience through internships or projects related to UAV design and obtaining relevant certifications can also enhance your qualifications. Strong problem-solving skills and understanding of aerodynamics are essential for success in this field.

What is the highest paying drone job?

The highest paying drone jobs typically include roles such as drone pilot for aerial surveying, mapping, or cinematography, especially in industries like oil and gas, construction, or film production. These positions often require advanced certifications, specialized skills, and experience, with salaries reaching six figures in some cases. High-paying roles usually involve complex operations, regulatory compliance, and the use of professional-grade drone equipment and software.

Is drone flying a good career?

Drone flying as a career involves operating unmanned aerial vehicles for applications such as photography, surveying, or inspection. It requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of aviation regulations, and job opportunities are growing in industries like agriculture, construction, and media. The field offers flexible schedules but may require ongoing training and safety compliance.

What is a Drone Design job?

A Drone Design job involves creating, developing, and testing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for various applications, including commercial, military, and recreational use. Professionals in this field work on aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials, and control technologies to optimize performance. They use CAD software, simulations, and prototyping to refine their designs. Additionally, they may collaborate with engineers from different disciplines to integrate sensors, cameras, and communication systems into drones.

What are the typical responsibilities and collaborative dynamics of a Drone Design role?

Professionals in Drone Design are typically responsible for concept creation, structural modeling, prototyping, and integrating systems like sensors, motors, and control software. Collaboration is central, as designers work closely with cross-functional teams including software engineers, testers, and project managers to ensure that the drone meets performance, safety, and regulatory standards. The work environment is often a mix of office-based CAD work and hands-on prototyping in laboratories or workshops. Most roles provide opportunities for specialization in fields such as autonomous navigation or payload design, and offer clear advancement paths into senior design, R&D, or engineering management positions.

What is the salary of drone designer?

The average salary of a drone designer typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Professionals with skills in CAD software, aerodynamics, and electronics tend to earn higher salaries, especially in technology and aerospace sectors.
More about Drone Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Design jobs? Cities with the most Drone Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Design jobs? The most popular types of Drone Design jobs are:
What states have the most Drone Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Design jobs are:
Drone Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,920 per year, or $35.1 per hour.
Drone/FPV Instructor

Drone/FPV Instructor

T3i, Inc.

Fort Walton Beach, FL

Full-time, Part-time, Contractor

Posted yesterday

Job description

T3i is seeking part-time instructors with a minimum of 1 year of FPV drone flight experience to teach and mentor students in this high-tempo, tactical FPV program. Instructors will conduct classroom instruction, field training, flight demonstrations, and performance evaluations. They must be proficient in quadcopter and FPV flight, tactical employment of munitions, and mission-level operational integration. Instructors should be comfortable teaching in all weather conditions, from extreme heat and humidity to near-freezing temperatures.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Instruct foundational and advanced FPV drone skills in classroom and field settings
  • Lead tactical flight operations, including offensive/defensive mission scenarios
  • Maintain safe operations with multiple drones in dynamic environments
  • Foster creative and adaptive thinking in students for tactical drone applications
  • Evaluate trainee performance and provide constructive feedback.
  • Support curriculum development and program refinement.

Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum 1 year of FPV drone flight experience
  • Obtain a FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License (must maintain)
  • Complete the T3i TDOC instructor skills assessment
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills
  • Proficient in computers, email, mobile messaging, and MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Physically capable of extended outdoor operations in varying weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications:
  • FPV drone design, testing, and build experience
  • Military SUAS or Special Operations experience
  • Instructor experience, including course development and administration

Required Background Check:
National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI)
T3i Drug Free Workplace Statement: As a Federal Government Contractor, T3i is required to strictly adhere to federally mandated drug-free workplace standards. To ensure compliance with this requirement, T3i conducts pre-employment drug screening for all new hire personnel (full time, part time, and independent contractor) and annual random drug screening for all current T3i personnel. All drug screening includes testing for the following drugs, at a minimum: Marijuana (CBD, hemp oil, and other cannabidiol use may result in a positive result), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, 6-monoacetylmorphine, and PCP. Personnel who cannot pass drug screening are not eligible for employment with T3i.
T3i logo

About T3i

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

2014

View All T3i Jobs

Apply