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Drone Embedded Software Jobs in Pasadena, MD (NOW HIRING)

Junior Software Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

$83K - $180K/yr

Design and implement low-level embedded software using primary languages including C, C++, and ... reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian ...

Junior Software Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

$83K - $180K/yr

Design and implement low-level embedded software using primary languages including C, C++, and ... reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian ...

Senior Reverse Engineer

Laurel, MD · On-site

$200K - $280K/yr

... drone, this isn't the place for you. We Make It Happen! GliaCell Technologies focuses on Software ... You will act as a general purpose 'jack of all trades' reverse engineer/developer embedded within a ...

... drone, this isn't the place for you. We Make It Happen! GliaCell Technologies focuses on Software ... You will act as a general purpose 'jack of all trades' reverse engineer/developer embedded within a ...

Drone Embedded Software information

See Pasadena, MD salary details

$71.1K

$155.7K

$176.6K

How much do drone embedded software jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone embedded software in Pasadena, MD is $155,706.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $133,500.00 and $175,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone embedded software engineer?

Drone embedded software engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain the software that runs directly on the hardware of drones. This software controls essential functions such as flight control, navigation, communication, and sensor integration. Embedded software is optimized for real-time performance and reliability, often written in languages like C or C++. These engineers work closely with hardware teams to ensure seamless integration and efficient operation of drones in various applications, from aerial photography to industrial inspections.

How does a drone embedded software engineer typically collaborate with hardware and flight operations teams?

Drone Embedded Software engineers work closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between software and drone components, such as sensors and flight controllers. Regular communication with flight operations teams is essential to gather feedback on drone performance and troubleshoot any issues discovered during test flights. This collaborative environment helps accelerate development, improve reliability, and ensures that software updates align well with evolving hardware and operational requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone embedded software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Embedded Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science or electrical engineering, proficiency in C/C++, and experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded systems. Familiarity with tools such as Git, JTAG debuggers, and communication protocols (SPI, I2C, UART), as well as knowledge of drone-specific hardware platforms, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These skills ensure reliable, efficient, and safe drone operation, which is critical for both performance and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Drone Embedded Software vs Drone Firmware Developer?

AspectDrone Embedded SoftwareDrone Firmware Developer
CredentialsKnowledge of embedded systems, programming languages (C/C++), electronicsSimilar credentials, often with embedded systems experience
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing software for drone hardwareDeveloping low-level firmware for drone controllers
Industry UsageUsed across drone manufacturing and R&DPrimarily in hardware-focused drone companies
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in drone software developmentFocusing on firmware-specific tasks in drones

Drone Embedded Software and Drone Firmware Developer roles overlap significantly, both requiring embedded systems knowledge and working within the drone industry. The main difference lies in scope: embedded software covers a broader range of software applications within drones, while firmware developers focus specifically on low-level hardware control. Both roles are essential for drone development and often share similar qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Embedded Software jobs in Pasadena, MD?

For Drone Embedded Software jobs in Pasadena, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Embedded Software jobs in Pasadena, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Embedded Software jobs in Pasadena, MD are:

What cities near Pasadena, MD are hiring for Drone Embedded Software jobs?

Cities near Pasadena, MD with the most Drone Embedded Software job openings:

Junior Software Engineer

AeroVironment

Jessup, MD • On-site

$83K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


AeroVironment rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Worker Type

Regular


Job Description

Summary

We are seeking a motivated Junior Software Engineer to join our engineering team. In this role, you will design, develop, and analyze low-level software, applications, and embedded systems across both Windows and Unix environments. Working closely with modern DevOps practices and continuous integration pipelines, you will build software drivers, process signals, and analyze operating system architectures to support critical mission requirements. This is an ideal role for an entry- to mid-level engineer looking to deepen their technical skills in C, C++, and Python within a high-impact cyber engineering context.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop software drivers, desktop applications, and client/server applications for Windows and Unix platforms.

  • Design and implement low-level embedded software using primary languages including C, C++, and Python.

  • Analyze operating systems, computer hardware architectures, and interfaces to perform signal processing and system evaluation.

  • Collaborate on DevOps processes by building and deploying infrastructure technologies.

  • Support CI/CD pipelines to ensure automated testing, integration, and continuous deployment of software releases.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical discipline.

  • 0-4 years of experience developing applications for Windows and Unix-based systems.

  • Proficiency in C, C++, and Python (experience with C# or Java is a plus).

  • Hands-on experience or familiarity with deployment and build tools such as Artifactory, Docker, Terraform, Ansible, and Packer.

  • Exposure to continuous integration and deployment workflows using tools like Jenkins or Bamboo.

  • Basic understanding of computer hardware architecture and low-level software interaction.

  • An active TS/SCI with polygraph

Salary Range: $83,500 - $180,000

The AV pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Determination of official compensation or salary relies on several factors including, but not limited to, level of position, job responsibilities, geographic location, scope of relevant work experience, educational background, certifications, contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements, alignment with local internal equity as well as alignment with market data.

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and the EAR. A "U.S. person" according to their definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee, or asylee. See 22 CFR 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world's most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution's permanent collection in Washington, DC.

Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty - and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company's hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data,sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

ITAR

U.S. Citizenship required

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