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Drone Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

XTEND

Embedded Software Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$124K - $163K/yr

Description XTEND Tampa is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to support the development, integration, and production of autonomous drone systems. This role focuses on hands-on embedded software ...

XTEND

Flight Operations Drone Pilot

Tampa, FL · On-site

$48K - $57K/yr

Description The Flight Operations Drone Pilot is responsible for the safe operation, mission ... Coordinate with engineering, program management, and customer personnel during flight activities

XTEND

Senior Drone Lab Technician

Tampa, FL · On-site

You will support engineering teams during development cycles, help lead daily lab operations, and ... Lead and mentor a team of technicians in the assembly, integration, and maintenance of drone ...

Lumenier/GetFPV

Mechanical Engineer

Ellenton, FL · On-site

The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for drone hardware and structures. This position requires a broad set of skills within the mechanical engineering discipline. Technical Capabilities/Skills: To ...

Lumenier/GetFPV

Mechanical Engineer

Ellenton, FL · On-site

The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for drone hardware and structures. This position requires a broad set of skills within the mechanical engineering discipline. Technical Capabilities/Skills: To ...

Lumenier/GetFPV

Mechanical Engineer

Ellenton, FL · On-site

The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for drone hardware and structures. This position requires a broad set of skills within the mechanical engineering discipline. Technical Capabilities/Skills: To ...

Lumenier/GetFPV

Systems Engineer

Palmetto, FL · On-site

The Systems Engineer is responsible for developing and integrating unmanned aerial vehicles ("UAV ... drone systems • Experience working with cross-functional teams (EE, ME, and software) in a ...

Lumenier/GetFPV

Systems Engineer

Palmetto, FL

The Systems Engineer is responsible for developing and integrating unmanned aerial vehicles ("UAV ... Experience with drone, robotics, or aerospace systems Familiarity with mechanical integration ...

Lumenier/GetFPV

Systems Engineer

Palmetto, FL · On-site

The Systems Engineer is responsible for developing and integrating unmanned aerial vehicles ("UAV ... FPV drone systems · Experience working with cross-functional teams (EE, ME, and software) in a ...

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Drone Engineer information

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How much do drone engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone engineer in Florida is $41.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.00 and $55.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a drone engineer?

To become a drone engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience with drone design, programming, and systems integration, along with knowledge of relevant tools and certifications, can improve job prospects.

How much does a drone engineer make?

A drone engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific skills such as UAV design, programming, or systems integration. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized certifications can earn higher wages.

Is drone engineering a good career?

Drone engineering is a growing field that involves designing, developing, and maintaining unmanned aerial systems. It requires skills in electronics, programming, and aerodynamics, and often involves working with advanced tools and certifications. The career offers opportunities in industries such as defense, agriculture, and delivery services, with demand expected to increase as drone technology advances.

What does a drone engineer do?

A Drone Engineer designs, builds, and maintains unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for various applications, including agriculture, defense, logistics, and surveillance. They work on hardware components like propulsion systems, sensors, and flight controllers, as well as software for autonomous navigation and control. Drone Engineers collaborate with other specialists, such as software developers and aerospace engineers, to improve UAV performance and efficiency. Their role also involves testing, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations.

What are the typical career growth opportunities for a drone engineer?

Drone Engineers often start in technical roles focused on design, development, or testing but can progress into senior engineering, project management, or specialized research positions as they gain experience. Many organizations offer opportunities to branch into areas like autonomous systems, software development, or team leadership within the robotics or UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) industry. With ongoing advancements in drone technology, there is also potential to move into roles shaping regulatory, safety, or integration standards. Career growth typically depends on your technical expertise, willingness to stay updated with new technologies, and ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone engineer?

To thrive as a Drone Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, electronics, and programming—often supported by a specialized engineering degree. Familiarity with design software (like CAD), embedded systems, flight controller platforms, and relevant certifications such as Part 107 (FAA remote pilot license) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, collaboration, and attention to detail help Drone Engineers excel when working on complex projects. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure drone systems are designed, tested, and deployed safely and effectively in real-world applications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Engineer jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Drone Engineer jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Drone Engineer jobs in Florida?

For Drone Engineer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Engineer jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Engineer jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Drone Engineer jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Drone Engineer job openings:

Drone Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 92% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,032 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Drone Innovation Center Manager

Full Sail University

Winter Park, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Full Sail University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

512th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

If you're looking for the chance to learn, grow, and make a contribution to the community, look at employment opportunities with Full Sail University. You'll find your choice of career opportunities, great benefits, an environment that welcomes and values creativity, and a work experience that is both challenging and rewarding!
The Drone Innovation Center Manager is responsible for leading the operations, programming, and strategic development of Full Sail University's Drone Innovation Center. This position sits within the Emerging Technologies team, reports to the Executive Director of Emerging Technologies, and collaborates closely with faculty, academic leadership, industry partners, and cross-functional student teams to deliver an exceptional, hands-on learning environment. The Manager will oversee all aspects of facility operations, curriculum related projects, team leadership, and technology integration, ensuring the Center remains at the forefront of drone innovation in higher education.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Oversee daily operations of the Drone Innovation Center, including the following spaces: Advanced Airspace, Engineering & Manufacturing, Simulation & Programming, Communications, Remote Operations, and the Situation Room.
  • Collaborate with faculty and academic leadership across degree programs, including Simulation Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Live Event Production, and other programs, to develop and implement drone-focused projects and experiences that align with program curriculum and learning outcomes.
  • Develop concepts, strategies, and project plans with clearly defined objectives, milestones, and deliverables for drone programming, competitions, demonstrations, and research initiatives.
  • Manage a multidisciplinary team that may include engineers, student assistants, and third-party contractors to design and execute high-quality drone projects and educational experiences.
  • Research, evaluate, and recommend emerging drone technologies, tools, software platforms, and workflows to keep the Center's capabilities current and cutting-edge.
  • Plan and manage drone events, races, tournaments, live demonstrations, and other public-facing activities hosted at or in partnership with the Center.
  • Support and advise the Full Sail Drone Club, fostering student engagement and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
  • Maintain and enforce safety protocols, FAA regulations, and university policies governing drone operation within the facility.
  • Manage inventory, maintenance schedules, and procurement of drones, components, and facility equipment.
  • Maintain and expand professional knowledge through ongoing training, certifications, and participation in industry events related to unmanned aerial systems (UAS), autonomous navigation, and drone technology.
  • Foster a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive environment that encourages experimentation and creative problem-solving.

Other Responsibilities:
  • Adheres to the policies and procedures of Full Sail University.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality of student and company information.
  • Demonstrates a strong commitment to the mission and values of the organization.
  • Adheres to company attendance standards.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: ☒YES
If YES, then the below applies in addition to those listed in Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • May oversee Federal Work Study students associated with the Spatial Computing Innovation Lab.
  • Recruits, interviews, hires, and trains staff in their department.
  • Oversees the schedules and responsibilities of staff in their department.
  • Provides constructive and timely staff performance evaluations.
  • Follows established guidelines for employee disciplinary action as determined by Full Sail policies and procedures.

Competencies
  • Proven track record of managing technical facilities, programs, or cross-functional teams.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, interpersonal, and leadership skills with an ability to mentor both staff and students.
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities, with experience engaging students, faculty, executives, industry partners, and the public.
  • Creative thinker with a passion for technology-driven innovation in education.
  • Comfortable operating, troubleshooting, and teaching with a wide range of drone hardware and software platforms.
  • Agile and adaptable in a fast-evolving technology landscape.
  • Strong time management and prioritization skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and events.
  • Professional demeanor with a focus on service, safety, reliability, and excellence.
  • Commitment to maintaining a collaborative and inclusive facility culture.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
  • Detail-oriented with a strong safety mindset.
  • Ability to interact professionally and constructively with students and staff at all levels in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Education and/or Experience
The ideal candidate is an organized, technically skilled professional with hands-on experience in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), drone engineering or operations, project management, and team coordination. They bring a balance of operational rigor, creative vision, and a genuine enthusiasm for immersive, technology-driven education. A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Simulation Engineering, Game Development, Digital Media, or a related field is required. Equivalent professional experience in drone operations, UAS program management, or a related discipline will be considered.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required or must be obtained within 90 days of hire)
• Additional UAS certifications or advanced FAA credentials a plus
Computer/Equipment Skills
• Strong understanding of drone hardware platforms, flight controllers, and autonomous navigation systems.
• Proficiency with drone simulation software (e.g., VelociDrone or similar platforms).
• Experience with 3D printing, electronics assembly, or drone frame manufacturing preferred.
• Familiarity with AI, computer vision, and programming as applied to drone systems.
• Comfortable with live streaming, AV systems, and multimedia production tools as relevant to the Communications and Situation Room spaces.
Environmental Factors/Physical Demands
Work is performed in both an office and active facility environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may regularly interact with drone hardware, flight zones, manufacturing equipment, and AV systems. The employee must have the ability to maintain active communication with students, staff, and partners; access, input, and retrieve information from computer systems; and respond quickly in a dynamic lab setting. Subject to bending, reaching, kneeling, stooping, and lifting up to thirty (30) pounds.
Full Sail is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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