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Drone Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kiewit Corporation

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX

... development opportunities within a multi-billion-dollar organization. Our culture is built on ... Conduct drone operations for asset inspections, environmental monitoring, and aerial surveys

Kiewit

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX · On-site

... development opportunities within a multi-billion-dollar organization. Our culture is built on ... Conduct drone operations for asset inspections, environmental monitoring, and aerial surveys

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 ...

Quanta Services

Drone Pilot

Midland, TX

We focus on career development and reward excellence, recognizing each team member's unique ... The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate ...

DeAngelo Contracting Services

Drone Spray Technician

Dallas, TX · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Employees receive generous compensation packages, employee engagement events & career development ... Perform drone spray applications in an industrial environment * Operate in full compliance with FAA ...

DeAngelo Contracting Services

Drone Spray Technician

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Employees receive generous compensation packages, employee engagement events & career development ... Perform drone spray applications in an industrial environment * Operate in full compliance with FAA ...

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How much do drone development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 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.

How much does a drone engineer make?

A drone engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Skilled engineers with expertise in aerodynamics, electronics, and software development are in high demand in the industry.

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, often requiring advanced certifications and experience. These positions can offer six-figure salaries, especially in industries like construction, energy, or film production where specialized skills and equipment are needed.

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.

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 relevant tools like ROS or PX4 is essential, along with a background in electrical engineering or computer science. Certifications in robotics or UAV operation can also enhance your qualifications.

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 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.

How much do drone designers make?

Drone designers, also known as UAV or drone engineers, typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills in aerodynamics, electronics, or software development can earn higher salaries.

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.

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Drone Development jobs near you

Commercial Manager - Drone Operations (US)

Skyports Drone Services

New York, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Commercial Manager - Drone Operations (US)
Location: US (Remote) or in-person, New York
Department: Drone Services
Type: Full-time, Permanent
About Us:
Founded in 2018, Skyports is at the forefront of the Advanced Air Mobility revolution, developing and operating cutting-edge infrastructure for electric air taxis and leveraging drone technology to transform business operations across industries.
Our business is split into two key areas:
  • Skyports Drone Services uses drones to streamline logistics, capture data, and enhance operational efficiency, with a focus on rural deliveries, surveying, surveillance, and maritime services.
  • Skyports Infrastructure plays a vital role in the Urban Air Mobility ecosystem, designing, building, owning, and operating vertiports that enable eVTOL operators to take off and land in cities around the world.

With our presence in this dynamic, high-growth industry, there has never been a more exciting time to be part of our mission to reshape the future of air mobility.
The Role:
Skyports Drone Services is looking for a commercially driven, detail-oriented Commercial Manager - Drone Operations (US) to support and grow our operations in the USA and wider AMER region. This role sits within the Drone Services division and is remote, with the option to be based in New York.
You will be responsible for managing one of our key client relationships while playing a pivotal role in expanding our commercial footprint across the US market, with a particular focus on the utilities and construction sectors.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead full-cycle sales from lead generation through to contract negotiation and close.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for one of our major clients, managing communications, commercial discussions and long-term relationship development.
  • Build and grow a pipeline of opportunities across the US market, with a particular emphasis on utilities and construction clients.
  • Develop a strong understanding of customer use cases in utilities and construction, including asset inspection, project monitoring, surveying, progress tracking, safety oversight and related data services.
  • Drive the preparation of high-quality PowerPoint proposals for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Own and manage pricing models and commercial analysis in Excel, ensuring accuracy, transparency and alignment with client expectations.
  • Respond to public procurement processes including PQQs, RFPs, RFIs and ITTs, coordinating input from internal teams and ensuring timely, high-quality submissions.
  • Support the initial planning and design of drone operations, ensuring client expectations and KPIs are met.
  • Monitor deal progress, provide regular updates to stakeholders and proactively address issues or feedback.
  • Track all commercial activity and pipeline progress in HubSpot CRM.
  • Represent Skyports Drone Services credibly with clients, partners and industry stakeholders across our priority sectors in the US.

Key KPIs
  • Timely and high-quality delivery of proposals and pricing documentation.
  • Closed-won sales from both key accounts and new national clients.
  • Measurable pipeline growth and successful conversion of new business in the US market.
  • Growth in commercial opportunities and revenue across the utilities and construction sectors.
  • Strong and positive client relationships maintained over time.
  • Clear, consistent and proactive communication with internal and external stakeholders.
  • High levels of client satisfaction and retention.

About You
  • Proven experience in account management and business development, ideally within drones, aviation, construction, utilities, infrastructure or technology-enabled services.
  • Demonstrated ability to grow business and develop new client relationships in the US market and wider AMER region.
  • Strong understanding of the utilities and/or construction sectors, including how operational, safety and asset challenges can be solved through service-led technology solutions.
  • Exceptional PowerPoint skills, with a strong portfolio of client-facing presentations.
  • Advanced Excel proficiency, particularly in pricing, financial modelling or commercial analysis.
  • Experience responding to public procurement processes such as PQQs, RFPs and ITTs, and managing complex submissions.
  • Excellent organisational and communication skills, with a client-first mindset.
  • A proactive approach to problem-solving and strong attention to detail.
  • Enthusiasm for working in an innovative, fast-paced and highly collaborative environment.
  • Interest in aviation, drone technology or emerging technology sectors. Direct drone experience is a plus, but strong sector knowledge and a willingness to learn are equally valuable.

What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunity to work in an innovative and growing industry.
  • A collaborative and dynamic work environment with strong opportunities for professional development.
  • Flexible working arrangements and a supportive team culture.

How to Apply:
If you are passionate about aviation and keen to be part of a pioneering company shaping the future of transportation, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and why you would be a great fit for this role.

Apply