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Drone Developer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Auterion

Forward Deployed Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

As a Forward Deployed Engineer, you will work closely with Auterion's customers and partners to deploy and integrate our drone technology into their systems. This role focuses on the mechanical ...

Auterion

Forward Deployed Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

As a Forward Deployed Engineer, you will work closely with Auterion's customers and partners to deploy and integrate our drone technology into their systems. This role focuses on the mechanical ...

Auterion

Forward Deployed Engineer

Arlington, VA

As a Forward Deployed Engineer, you will work closely with Auterion's customers and partners to deploy and integrate our drone technology into their systems. This role focuses on the mechanical ...

Axon

Sr. Product Manager, Sensors

Sterling, VA

$125K - $165K/yr

... drone portfolio - which spans RF sensors, radars, cameras, effectors, trailers, and supporting infrastructure. This is a hands-on role where you will work closely with hardware engineering, RF and ...

Axon

Sr. Product Manager, C2

Sterling, VA · On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

... drone threats. This role offers the chance to shape cutting-edge AI/ML products in a mission-critical domain, collaborating directly with data scientists, software engineers, UX designers, and ...

Axon

Sr. Product Manager, C2

Sterling, VA

$125K - $165K/yr

... drone threats. This role offers the chance to shape cutting-edge AI/ML products in a mission-critical domain, collaborating directly with data scientists, software engineers, UX designers, and ...

Droneshield

Field Service Engineer (USA)

Warrenton, VA · On-site

At DroneShield, employees work at the leading edge of counter-drone innovation, helping to address ... About the Role The Field Service Engineer is responsible for the deployment, installation, and ...

Auterion

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... Your primary focus will be enabling strike drone capabilities, including integration of Auterion ...

Auterion

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... Your primary focus will be enabling strike drone capabilities, including integration of Auterion ...

Auterion

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... Your primary focus will be enabling strike drone capabilities, including integration of Auterion ...

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All JobsDrone Developer JobsDrone Developer Jobs in Virginia

Drone Developer information

See Virginia salary details

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$52

$81

How much do drone developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone developer in Virginia is $52.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.05 and $64.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Drone Developer position, 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.

How much do NFL drone pilots make?

NFL drone pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certification, and the complexity of the drone operations. They often require specialized skills in drone technology, FAA certifications, and the ability to operate in live event environments.

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.

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.

What is the 400 foot rule for drones?

The 400 foot rule for drones states that recreational and commercial drone pilots must keep their aircraft within 400 feet of the ground or their point of takeoff unless they have specific authorization. Drone developers and operators should incorporate altitude awareness and geofencing features to ensure compliance with this regulation, which is enforced by the FAA in many regions.

What is the 120m rule for drones?

The 120-meter rule for drones states that recreational and commercial drone pilots must keep their aircraft within 120 meters (approximately 400 feet) above ground level unless they have specific authorization. This regulation helps ensure safe operation and prevent interference with manned aircraft, and drone developers often incorporate altitude limit features into their software to comply with this rule.

What is a Drone Developer job?

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 Virginia? The most popular types of Drone Developer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Drone Developer jobs in Virginia? For Drone Developer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Developer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Developer jobs in Virginia are:
Drone Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Developer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,962 per year, or $52.4 per hour.
Drone Instructor

Drone Instructor

Universal Solutions International Inc

Newport News, VA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Drone Instructor


eAviation & Drone Academy is seeking a part-time, 1099 Independent Drone Instructor to support education and training of students in the Hampton Roads area.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Deliver drone education and training to students of all ages (high school, college or adult learners), ensuring adherence to operational protocols and safety standards.
  • Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight safety checks
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues to maximize mission readiness
  • Ensure compliance with all FAA regulations as applicable

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

  • Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA
  • High school Diploma or GED and 2-5 years of manned/UAS flight experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 4 years
  • Previous experience in flight instruction or customer technical training experience

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

  • Completion of training or a degree in aviation, engineering, or a related field preferred.
  • Depending on the customer, a BS or MS degree could be required.
  • Ability to be credentialed by Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to fulfill physical requirements of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, including, but not limited to, moving and/or lifting drones to work locations.