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Drone Design Jobs in California (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 ...

Monolyth Technologies

Drone Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

We design and build compact aerial systems used for reconnaissance and tactical operations. We are looking for a hands-on Drone Technician who wants real responsibility, fast learning, and the ...

Booster

Product Design Engineer Intern

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$56.48 - $79.90/hr

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key ... As a member of the Product Design Team, you will work on meaningful projects that add value to ...

Skydio, Inc

RF Design Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$147K - $240K/yr

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key ... Design and implement wireless solutions in a variety of technologies and standards across multiple ...

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All JobsDrone Design JobsDrone Design Jobs in California

Drone Design information

See California salary details

$14

$34

$54

How much do drone design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone design in California is $34.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.83 and $40.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone design?

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 does a drone design do?

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 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.

Is drone flying a good career?

Drone flying as a career involves operating unmanned aerial vehicles for applications such as photography, surveying, or inspection, often requiring certification and technical skills. It can offer opportunities in industries like agriculture, construction, and media, with job prospects growing as drone technology advances. However, it may involve irregular hours and regulatory compliance.

What drone design jobs are in demand?

Drone design jobs in demand include roles such as UAV engineer, drone hardware designer, and systems engineer, focusing on developing lightweight, efficient, and reliable drone components. Skills in CAD software, aerodynamics, and familiarity with regulations are often required, along with experience in prototype testing and integration. These positions are common in industries like defense, agriculture, and aerial photography, where innovation in drone technology is a priority.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Design jobs in California?

The most popular types of Drone Design jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Drone Design jobs in California?

For Drone Design jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Design jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Design jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Drone Design jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drone Design job openings:

Drone Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,965 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

FPV Test Pilot

Neros Technologies

Torrance, CA

$91K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

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 speed, and built at massive scale. Our team culture is fast, hands-on, and obsessed with closing the gap between design and deployment.

As drones transform the character of warfare, Neros is delivering the systems the West needs to compete on the modern battlefield and deter the adversaries of democracy. We're hiring engineers, operators, and builders who want to move fast, take on extreme ownership, and get capability into the hands of warfighters in months, not years.

What you will be doing

Neros is seeking a test pilot to run flight testing and qualification on Neros systems. This role will be primarily field testing and piloting FPV drones. The ideal candidate will be an expert drone pilot who can execute flight tests, identify failures and product imperfections, and thoroughly report back to FPV Specialists and engineers.

  • Pilot drones in flight testing, gain deep familiarity with the system and aircraft performance
  • ~80% time field testing. Must have ability to travel several days in a week
  • Prepare, transport, and operate drone systems and supporting equipment
  • Document and collect data during tests
  • Perform high volume qualification on late-stage engineering products

You should have the following

  • 2 years minimum on acro drones
  • Expert at acro FPV and LOS flying
  • Ability to detect subtle performance issues in equipment
  • Technical knowledge of UAV components
  • Betaflight and ESC software
  • Mechanical and electrical troubleshooting
  • Part 107

Nice to have

  • 5+ years experience in FPV
  • Blackbox analysis and PID tuning
  • Professional FPV piloting experience
  • CAD/drone design
  • Experience with cinelifters or large FPV platforms

US Salary Range

$91,000 - $127,500 USD

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are considered part of Neros' total compensation package.

We're an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all applicants without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

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