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Drone Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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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 6, 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 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.

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
What cities are hiring for Drone Development jobs? Cities with the most Drone Development job openings:
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
Infographic showing various Drone Development job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,773 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Drone Pilot - Rotating Shifts

FOCUSPOINT

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Drone Pilot – Rotating Shifts

Location: Brentwood, TN
Shift: Rotating
Travel: ~10 percent
Compensation: Based on experience
Hiring Through: FocusPoint (confidential client)

About the Role

A leading industrial organization is seeking a skilled Drone Pilot to support advanced UAS operations across multiple facilities. This is a hands‑on, technology‑driven role ideal for professionals who excel in mission planning, safe flight execution, data capture, and operational discipline. You will operate on the night shift and support both routine and rapid‑response missions.

What You’ll DoFlight Operations & Mission Planning

  • 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 rapid deployment during time‑sensitive or emergency events

  • Identify new opportunities to use drone technology to improve safety and efficiency

Regulatory Compliance

  • Stay current on federal, state, and local UAS regulations

  • Ensure all operations meet compliance, documentation, and reporting requirements

Safety & Risk Management

  • Uphold strict safety protocols for all drone operations

  • Perform ongoing risk assessments and maintain incident reporting

  • Support a culture of safety, discipline, and operational excellence

Data Capture & Analysis

  • Capture, process, and validate aerial data using advanced UAS platforms

  • Work with internal teams to extract insights and deliver accurate reports

  • Ensure completeness and quality of all data outputs

Communication & Team Support

  • Maintain clear communication with operations and leadership teams

  • Contribute to continuous improvement and innovation across the drone program

What You Need to Bring

  • Bachelor’s degree or 5 plus years of relevant industry experience

  • Proven experience operating drones in industrial or complex environments

  • Strong understanding of UAS technology, regulations, and safety standards

  • Experience with mission planning, data collection, and technology workflows

  • Proficiency with data analysis or visualization tools

  • Strong communication and teamwork skills

  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required)

Who Thrives in This Role

Candidates who demonstrate:

  • Safety and discipline in every operation

  • Accountability and ownership of results

  • Integrity and clear, respectful communication

  • Curiosity and a willingness to innovate

  • Continuous improvement mindset

Work Environment

  • Night shift schedule (12a–8a, Monday–Friday)

  • Approximately 10 percent travel to client sites

  • Mix of field operations and office‑based data processing

Why Work with FocusPoint
As a trusted staffing partner to industry-leading companies, FocusPoint provides access to roles that align with your professional goals, and we advocate for your success throughout the recruitment process. Our team understands appropriate skillsets and takes a consultative approach ensuring that each match is grounded in both experience and fit.

How to Apply
To ensure confidentiality and alignment with our client’s hiring process, all applications must be submitted through FocusPoint. Please do not attempt to contact the client directly. Interested candidates should reach out to FocusPoint’s recruitment team with any questions.

About FocusPoint:
FocusPoint specializes in connecting top-tier professionals with exceptional opportunities in accounting, technology, healthcare, and leadership. We prioritize building meaningful connections, ensuring candidates find roles that align with their skills, goals, and passions.
 
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