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Drone Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tex-Air Drone

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Drone Pilot & Data Specialist

Amarillo, TX · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

Drone Pilot & Data Specialist Travel: Regular travel across TX, OK, and NM Position Overview This ... development. We are seeking a dependable, tech-savvy professional to join our team and build a ...

Kelly Services

Flight Test Operator

Bay Point, CA

You've contributed to drone development , aerospace, or robotic testing programs. * You Collaborate Well: You work effectively with cross-functional teams--especially engineers, operators, and ...

Socket.dev

Senior Global Supply Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

$154 - $216/hr

... drone development and scale production. * Lead sourcing strategy for assigned product families, including NPI supply chain program management from concept through prototype builds, LRIP, and high ...

FLIR Systems, Inc.

Drone & Robotics Test Engineer

Orem, UT · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

UAS development and the UAS market is still young and constantly changing. Your work will be varied ... This is not a drone operator role--it's a systems‑level test pilot position intended for a ...

Teledyne

Drone & Robotics Test Engineer

Orem, UT · On-site

UAS development and the UAS market is still young and constantly changing. Your work will be varied ... Job Summary : Teledyne FLIR is looking for an engineering professional to conduct drone ...

T3i, Inc.

Drone/FPV Instructor

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

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 ...

Neros Technologies

Global Supply Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $168K/yr

... drone development and scale production. * Lead sourcing strategy for assigned product families, including NPI supply chain program management from concept through prototype builds, LRIP, and high ...

Bear Country Inc

Drone Show Designer

Caledonia, WI

... development (Not required, but useful), (Unity, Unreal, Godot) Qualifications: Technical Skills: Proficiency with a computer and using design software to create digital media Ability to create ...

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Drone Development information

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$29K

$55.8K

$92K

How much do drone development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone development in the United States is $55,773.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is drone development?

Drone development refers to the design, creation, and programming of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. This field encompasses both hardware engineering, such as building drone frames and integrating sensors, and software development, including flight control systems and autonomous navigation algorithms. Drone developers work in various industries, including agriculture, delivery services, photography, and defense, to create innovative solutions tailored to specific applications.

What are some common challenges faced when working in drone development, and how do teams typically address them?

Professionals in drone development often encounter challenges such as integrating complex hardware and software systems, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining safety standards. Teams typically address these by adopting agile development practices, holding frequent cross-disciplinary meetings, and staying up to date with the latest regulations. Collaboration between engineers, software developers, and compliance specialists is essential to ensure all aspects of the drone—such as flight stability, data security, and legal requirements—are addressed throughout the development process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in drone development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Drone Development, you need expertise in robotics, aeronautical engineering, and programming, often supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with CAD software, embedded systems, and flight control platforms like PX4 or ArduPilot is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as Part 107 (for commercial drone operations) in some regions. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that help drive innovation and successful project completion. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing, building, and optimizing advanced drone systems that meet industry standards and client needs.

What is the difference between Drone Development vs Drone Software Engineering?

AspectDrone DevelopmentDrone Software Engineering
Primary FocusDesigning, building, and testing drone hardware and systemsDeveloping, testing, and maintaining software for drones
Required SkillsElectronics, mechanical design, embedded systemsProgramming, algorithms, software architecture
Work EnvironmentHardware labs, prototyping facilitiesSoftware development environments, coding labs
Common CertificationsElectronics certifications, UAV licensesSoftware development certifications, coding bootcamps

Drone Development involves creating the physical hardware and systems of drones, focusing on design and testing. Drone Software Engineering centers on developing the software that runs on drones, including programming and system integration. Both roles often collaborate but require different skill sets and certifications, making them distinct yet interconnected careers in the drone industry.

How to become a drone developer?

To become a drone developer, you should have a strong foundation in programming languages such as C++, Python, or Java, and knowledge of embedded systems and robotics. Gaining experience with drone hardware, flight control software, and simulation tools is essential, along with understanding aerodynamics and sensor integration. Earning relevant certifications or degrees in robotics, aerospace engineering, or computer science can also enhance your qualifications.

Is drone development a good career?

Drone development is a growing field that involves designing and building unmanned aerial systems, requiring skills in engineering, programming, and electronics. It offers opportunities in industries such as agriculture, defense, and delivery services, with demand for qualified professionals increasing as drone technology advances. Certification in relevant areas and knowledge of regulations can enhance career prospects.
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Drone Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Development job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,773 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Unmanned Aviation Vehicle Consultant

Saint Vincent College

Latrobe, PA

Contractor

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Unmanned Aviation Vehicle Consultant

Reports to: Dean, McKenna School

Supervises: N/A

Primary function: The Unmanned Aviation Vehicle (UAV) Consultant is responsible for developing educational, industry, and local economic development contacts able to facilitate the initiation of a drone educational program and creation of business and economic opportunities related to drone development and operations. The position is funded for 12 months by a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission and is a 1099 contract position. The consultant must have a strong understanding of the aviation industry and some knowledge of drones, drone pilot training, and industry opportunities evolving from the advancement of drone technology.

The role involves:

  • Working with Saint Vincent faculty, staff, and advisory boards to seek appropriate approvals to launch a drone program
  • Working with external experts and faculty to develop a curriculum for a drone education program
  • Determining the best approach for implementing a drone program including method of delivery, focus of program, and academic level
  • Development of a plan to promote and recruit students for a drone program
  • Seeking additional funding for implementation of a drone program
  • Identifying and networking with companies, organizations, and entrepreneurs associated with establishment of businesses using drone technology
  • Working with and consulting constituents including the FAA, Airport Authority, legislators, local businesses, and local governments to determine the community needs and opportunities for a drone program
  • Attend conferences and events and network with drone experts to determine best practices of implementing a drone program
  • Developing a budget for implementing a drone program including pricing out and specifying costs for drones, parts, teaching equipment, and other resources
  • Identifying individuals to serve on an advisory council for a potential drone program
  • Creating and presenting an Annual Report on the drone initiative to Saint Vincent leadership. The report should include a summary of activities and decisions made by the consultant
  • Coordinating efforts with leaders of Saint Vincent aviation program to ensure strong focus and overlap of programs

Required Qualifications Education:

Bachelor's Degree in business, aviation, engineering, or related field required

Master's Degree in business or related field preferred Drone license preferred

Experience:

  • A combination of at least 3 years in a higher education/curriculum development role, aviation industry role, military aviation role, and/or drone-related role
  • Sensitivity and commitment to provide quality service compatible with the College's mission as a Catholic, Benedictine, Liberal Arts institution
  • A commitment to the collaborative nature of higher education institutions

Other duties:

  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the President, Executive Vice President and COO, and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Special challenges and environment:

Perform, meet and exceed expectations of the McKenna School Dean, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and President regarding the UAV initiative

This description is not intended to be all-inclusive. It is provided as a general statement of the nature and duties of the position. The incumbent may be asked to perform other assignments of a similar nature, or related to the effective operation of the department, or as a developmental experience, as assigned from time to time by the supervisor.

All positions require the incumbent to be able to fully embrace the unique mission and identity of the College as a Catholic, Benedictine liberal arts and sciences institution. Saint Vincent College is committed to diversity and encourages applicants from all qualified candidates. Saint Vincent College is committed to building a diversified and competent population of faculty and staff, and encourages applications from women and minorities. Saint Vincent is an equal opportunity employer.

PLEASE NOTE: Background checks will be performed on all new hires. Employment is conditional upon satisfactory background checks and clearances.

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