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Drone Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Droneshield

Field Service Engineer (USA)

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

At DroneShield, employees work at the leading edge of counter-drone innovation, helping to address ... About the Role The Field Service Engineer is responsible for the deployment, installation, and ...

Auterion

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA

$140K - $170K/yr

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... Your primary focus will be enabling strike drone capabilities, including integration of Auterion ...

Auterion

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... Your primary focus will be enabling strike drone capabilities, including integration of Auterion ...

Auterion

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... Your primary focus will be enabling strike drone capabilities, including integration of Auterion ...

Axon

System Test Engineer II

Sterling, VA

You'll be the engineer who understands the entire system and its nuances end to end: you'll ... In this role the drone is the threat . What's under test is the CUAS stack - detect, track ...

TekSky

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

Senior Mechanical Engineer - Hampton, VA About the job Senior Mechanical Engineer - UAS About ... A true "drone nerd" who builds, flies, and experiments with UAS as a hobby. * Startup Mindset

Axon

System Test Engineer II

Sterling, VA · On-site

You'll be the engineer who understands the entire system and its nuances end to end: you'll ... In this role the drone is the threat. What's under test is the CUAS stack - detect, track, identify ...

Berriehill Research

Senior Electrical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$123K - $161K/yr

Design wire harnesses for unmanned systems (UxS) and drone-related hardware, including connector selection, routing, and documentation. * Coordinate with mechanical, process, and program engineering ...

Zetier

Principal CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience (gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro) * Familiar reading assembly / compiled programs (x86, x64, ARM) * Securely ...

Zetier

Mid-Level CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience (gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro) * Familiar reading assembly / compiled programs (x86, x64, ARM) * Securely ...

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Drone Engineer information

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How much do drone engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone engineer in Virginia is $55.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.81 and $73.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How do you become a drone engineer?

To become a drone engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with drone design, programming, and systems integration, along with proficiency in tools like CAD software and knowledge of flight control systems, is also important. Certifications in UAV operation or engineering can enhance 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 benefits from certifications or specialized training. The profession offers opportunities in industries such as defense, agriculture, and logistics, with a demand for technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Drone Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,464 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Chief Technology Officer (CTO) - Dual Use Drone Tech

Sterling, VA • On-site, Remote

The Patriot Group
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about The Patriot Groupexternal

$300K - $325K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Chief Technology Officer (CTO) – Defense & Aerospace Technology


Work for an exciting and growing U.S. VTOL Drone - Aerospace company. With a great leadership team, incredible employee appreciation– look what we have to offer you!

 

*Onsite role but open to Hybrid for candidates within driving distance of Sterling/Reston/Dulles, VA Area Office


**Or, able to relocate.

***Remote may be considered

COMPANY PROFILE:

  • Aerospace and defense technology company developing next-generation UAV systems, providing extended flight endurance and unmatched operational efficiency
  • We are dedicated to revolutionizing drone capabilities with alternative power, focusing on sustainability, efficiency, and advanced mission delivery.
  • We offer a range of drones designed to exceed expectations in its field. From agriculture to national security.


WHY JOIN US?

  • Shape the future of UAV operations by leading a fast-growing aerospace company at the forefront of alternative energy-powered drone technology.
  • Lead the transformation of a U.S. division while integrating with a mature international team.
  • Competitive executive compensation package, with flexibility in salary, equity, and incentives based on experience and company culture fit.


THE ROLE YOU WILL PLAY:


We are seeking a visionary and execution-driven Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to lead our engineering and technology strategy. This role is critical in shaping the future of our technology capabilities, focusing on hydrogen R&D, autonomy & avionics, modularity, and cost-effective manufacturing with a resilient global supply chain. The ideal candidate is a mission-first leader who prioritizes impact, execution, and long-term technical vision while working in close collaboration with the CEO.


Key Responsibilities:


  • Define and execute a strategic technology vision that extends beyond a single product.
  • Build and lead a world-class engineering organization, shaping both the team and culture.
  • Drive full lifecycle product development, from R&D through manufacturing, ensuring DoD program readiness and a robust global supply chain.
  • Develop critical technical competencies, including hydrogen systems, thermals, autonomy, avionics, and modular architectures.
  • Navigate complex defense industry requirements while maintaining an agile and entrepreneurial approach.
  • Collaborate closely with leadership to align technology development with business and mission objectives.
  • Ensure the engineering team has the necessary processes, tools, and strategic alignment to deliver on key milestones.


BACKGROUND PROFILE:

  • Led drone technology development from initial concept through market launch, with a focus on U.S. Department of Defense customers.
  • Strong understanding of DoD program readiness stages and ability to navigate defense procurement and contracting processes.
  • Proven track record of shipping products into manufacturing, not just reaching demonstration milestones.
  • Ability to lead full programs through development, testing, and deployment in defense or adjacent sectors.
  • Deep technical expertise in one or more relevant domains: thermals, autonomy, avionics, modularity, and manufacturing.
  • Education: BS, Masters, PhD, etc
  • Experience as a Head of Engineering, VP of Engineering, CTO, or equivalent in a defense or dual-use technology company.
  • Proven ability to interface with government and defense stakeholders while maintaining a commercial mindset.
  • Experience leading large-scale engineering programs that integrate both hardware and software components.