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Drone Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Wing

Data Scientist Manager, Engineering

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$228K - $242K/yr

Wing offers drone delivery as a safe, fast, and sustainable solution for last mile logistics ... Wing is looking for a Data Scientist Manager, Engineering to join our SimEval team. This role is ...

Seneca

Software Engineer (iOS)

Sausalito, CA · On-site

$100K - $170K/yr

... drone systems. This is a mission-critical role where your work directly translates our backend ... Collaborate cross-functionally with Perception Engineers and Controls Engineers to define and ...

Wing

Mechatronics Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$190K - $198K/yr

Wing offers drone delivery as a safe, fast, and sustainable solution for last mile logistics ... Wing is looking for a Mechatronics Engineer to join our Aircraft Development team. This role is ...

Skydio, Inc

Failure Analysis Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$147K - $170K/yr

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key ... We are seeking a talented multi-disciplinary quality engineer to define, implement, and ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Technician

Torrance, CA · On-site

$65K - $91K/yr

... engineers to ensure that all equipment is prepared, tests are thoroughly documented, and act as Visual Observer in flight tests. The ideal candidate has strong FPV drone background, comfortable ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Technician

Torrance, CA

$70K - $91K/yr

... and engineers to ensure that all equipment is prepared, tests are thoroughly documented, and act as Visual Observer in flight tests. The ideal candidate has a strong FPV drone background, is ...

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Drone Developer information

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How much do drone developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone developer in California is $52.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.86 and $63.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone developer, and why are they important?

A Drone Developer needs a solid background in computer science or engineering, with strong programming skills (often in C++, Python, or ROS) and expertise in robotics and embedded systems. Familiarity with hardware prototyping tools, drone flight controllers, simulation platforms, and relevant certifications like the FAA Part 107 are typically valuable. Creative problem-solving, strong teamwork, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this field. These capabilities are critical because drone technology requires integrating complex software and hardware within regulatory and safety constraints.

What are some typical challenges a drone developer faces on a daily basis?

Drone Developers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting issues with hardware-software integration, ensuring robust communication between onboard systems, and adapting to rapidly evolving regulations in the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) industry. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams—including hardware engineers, software developers, and test pilots—is a key part of the job, requiring both technical flexibility and strong communication. Additionally, working in a fast-paced environment where project requirements can shift quickly helps developers stay adaptable while delivering innovative solutions. Overcoming these challenges provides valuable experience and can lead to exciting career growth within the drone technology sector.

How do you become a drone developer?

To become a drone developer, you typically need a background in computer science, robotics, or electrical engineering, along with programming skills in languages such as C++, Python, or Java. Experience with drone hardware, embedded systems, and software development tools like ROS or SDKs is also important, and obtaining relevant certifications can enhance job prospects.

Is drone developer a good career?

A drone developer designs and builds software and hardware for unmanned aerial vehicles, a growing field with applications in surveillance, delivery, and photography. The role often requires skills in programming, electronics, and robotics, and can offer opportunities in various industries with competitive salaries. As drone technology advances, demand for skilled developers is expected to increase.

What is a drone developer?

A Drone Developer is a software and hardware engineer who designs, builds, and programs unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). They work with drone flight control systems, navigation algorithms, communication protocols, and sensor integration. Their role often involves writing software for autonomous flight, obstacle detection, and mission planning. Drone Developers collaborate with robotics engineers, aerospace specialists, and AI experts to improve drone capabilities for industries like agriculture, defense, logistics, and surveying.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Developer jobs in California? The most popular types of Drone Developer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Drone Developer jobs in California? For Drone Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Drone Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Drone Developer job openings:
Drone Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,466 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer

Western Magnetics

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$87K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

About Westmag
Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by Andreessen Horowitz, Founders Fund, Lux Capital, NFDG, Menlo Ventures, and other top investors. Westmag is committed to building and scaling in the U.S. to serve the global market. For more information, visit westmag.com.
About the role
The Manufacturing Engineer at Westmag will play a pivotal role in scaling and optimizing the company's manufacturing processes for drone motors and robot actuators. You will work closely with design, quality, and production teams to ensure efficient, cost-effective, and high-quality manufacturing operations.
What you'll own
  • Improve manufacturing processes, training, documentation and controls to improve production efficiency and product quality.
  • Optimize production line layout and material flows for improved efficiency.
  • Collaborate with design and quality teams to ensure manufacturability of products.
  • Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for manufacturing issues.
  • Support production ramp-up by scaling manufacturing processes.
  • Own implementation and execution of continuous improvement system and related projects.
  • Establish and maintain Plan for Every Part (PFEP), Process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (PFMEA), process controls, and plant standards.
  • Support implementation of change management initiatives across the organization.

Requirements
Required qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field.
  • 3+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably in motor, actuator, drone, automotive, or robotics manufacturing environments.
  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, including automation, assembly, and quality control.
  • Experience with root cause analysis, PFMEA, process improvement methodologies, and lean manufacturing principles.
  • Proficiency with CAD software and manufacturing execution systems.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Willingness to travel as needed to support manufacturing operations.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred qualifications
  • Experience with drone motor or robotic actuator manufacturing.
  • Manufacturing simulation experience.
  • Familiarity with quality standards such as ISO 9001 or AS9100.
  • Knowledge of supply chain management and vendor relations.

Benefits
Compensation
Total compensation is base salary plus equity. Specifics for your situation are discussed during the interview process.
Benefits
Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, and paid time off.
Work authorization
You must be authorized to work in the United States.
At-will employment
This job description reflects the general nature of work currently assigned to this role; it is not exhaustive and does not restrict Westmag's right to revise duties or assign other duties as business needs change. Employment at Westmag is at-will.
Equal Opportunity
Westmag is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees and do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, transgender status, national origin, ancestry (including caste), citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, exercise of reproductive rights, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and for applicants and employees whose religious beliefs, observances, or practices conflict with workplace requirements. To request an accommodation during the application or interview process speak with your recruiter.

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