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Drone Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mach Industries

Field Drone Technician

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and R&D teams to support product development. * Ensure ... Stay current with evolving drone technologies, FAA rule changes, and industry trends. Required ...

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Pilot - 3rd Shift

Nashville, TN · On-site

Plan and execute drone missions, including flight plans, checklists, and use‑case development * Conduct routine and specialized flights, including BVLOS where permitted * Maintain readiness for ...

FulcrumAir Inc

Drone Pilot & Robot Operator

Wellington, CO · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

We also provide opportunities for professional development and career advancement. If you are a drone pilot and robotic operator who is ready to hit the road and take on exciting new challenges, we ...

FOCUSPOINT

Drone Pilot - Rotating Shifts

Nashville, TN · On-site

Plan and execute drone missions, including flight plans, checklists, and use‑case development * Conduct routine and specialized flights, including BVLOS where permitted * Maintain readiness for ...

Thomas & Hutton

Drone Project Surveyor

Savannah, GA · On-site

Advance your surveying career where your work leverages cutting-edge drone and LiDAR technology to support infrastructure and land development projects across the Southeast. At Thomas & Hutton, you ...

Thomas & Hutton

Drone Project Surveyor

Savannah, GA

Advance your surveying career where your work leverages cutting-edge drone and LiDAR technology to support infrastructure and land development projects across the Southeast. At Thomas & Hutton, you ...

Thomas & Hutton

Drone Project Surveyor

Savannah, GA · On-site

Advance your surveying career where your work leverages cutting-edge drone and LiDAR technology to support infrastructure and land development projects across the Southeast. At Thomas & Hutton, you ...

AEG

Event Drone Pilot (Part-Time)

San Antonio, TX · On-site

The Event Drone Pilot is responsible for the safe and compliant operation of unmanned aerial ... development. If you don't have experience in every single bullet above, no sweat - we still want to ...

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How much do drone development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 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.

More about Drone Development jobs
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What states have the most Drone Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Development jobs are:
Drone Development jobs near you

Field Drone Technician

Mach Industries

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

About Mach Industries
Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.
Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.
The Role
Mach Industries is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Field Drone Technician to support the deployment, maintenance, and operation of advanced drone platforms in field environments. This position ensures the safety, reliability, and performance of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in support of engineering, testing, and mission-critical operations. This role executes established procedures and configurations; system architecture, autonomy tuning, and experimental changes are owned by engineering roles. Success in this role is measured by operational reliability, procedural discipline, clear documentation, and effective escalation.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate drones according to project specifications.
  • Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections to ensure operational readiness.
  • Conduct field maintenance, repairs, and system upgrades on UAS and related equipment.
  • Identify, isolate, and document hardware, software, and connectivity issues, escalating findings to engineering as appropriate.
  • Install, test, and verify sensors, control systems, and communication equipment according to approved configurations.
  • Collect and process aerial data and system logs according to test and operational requirements; provide organized data sets to engineering and stakeholders.
  • Maintain detailed flight logs, maintenance records, and mission documentation.
  • Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and R&D teams to support product development.
  • Ensure compliance with internal safety protocols and national aviation regulations.
  • Assist in training and providing technical support to team members and users.
  • Stay current with evolving drone technologies, FAA rule changes, and industry trends.

Required Qualifications
  • Proven hands-on experience with drone systems and flight operations.
  • Strong knowledge of UAV electronics, sensors, and GCS configurations.
  • Ability to identify, repair, or replace mechanical and electrical system failures in accordance with established procedures.
  • Competent with data acquisition tools and post-mission analysis.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Associate degree or technical certification in electronics, avionics, or UAS maintenance.
  • Background in aerospace, military, or defense technology environments.
  • Familiarity with drone data software (e.g., PX4, Ardupilot, BetaFlight, DroneDeploy, GIS).
  • Experience with high-altitude, fixed-wing, or combustion-powered drones.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs of equipment.

Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!

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