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Drone Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Live Events

Drone Pilot

New Castle, PA

About Pyrotecnico For more than a century, Pyrotecnico has been engineering moments of celebration ... We are the people and the pride behind world-class fireworks displays, breathtaking drone light ...

Gather AI

Staff Autonomy Engineer (Drone)

About the Role We're looking for a Staff Autonomy Engineer (Drone) to own the core autonomy software stack for our drone platform. You'll lead the design and implementation of the perception ...

Bear Country Inc

Drone Show Pilot/Driver

Caledonia, WI · On-site

Drone Show Pilot and Driver Northern Lights Drone Show is looking for a Drone Show Pilot and Driver ... Associate degree or equivalent coursework in computer science, engineering or information science ...

TSMG

UAS Drone Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

As a Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient execution of complex drone ... A degree or diploma in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Aviation, Geomatics, Engineering, or a ...

Kiewit Corporation

Drone Pilot

Abilene, TX · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Geography, Geomatics, Engineering, or related field preferred * Experience with drone tools * Working knowledge of survey equipment and techniques (GPS, total stations) * Strong ...

LPL Solar

Surveyor / Drone Pilot

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

Director of Engineering Travel: Extensive travel to active project sites required Position Summary The Drone Pilot / Surveyor is responsible for performing aerial data collection, mapping, surveying ...

Bear Country Inc

Drone Show Designer

Caledonia, WI · On-site

Summary: Northern Lights Drone Shows is seeking a Drone Show Designer that's excited to bring ... Associate degree or equivalent coursework in computer science, engineering, game design/animation ...

Five-S Group

Survey Drone Pilot

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Survey Drone Pilot We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Survey Drone Pilot to operate UAVs ... You will work closely with engineering, surveying, and GIS teams to capture accurate aerial data ...

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Drone Engineer information

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How much do drone engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone engineer in the United States is $55.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.14 and $74.52 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.
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Drone Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,463 per year, or $56 per hour.

Drone Pilot

Live Events

New Castle, PA

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

About Pyrotecnico

For more than a century, Pyrotecnico has been engineering moments of celebration and wonder. We are the people and the pride behind world-class fireworks displays, breathtaking drone light shows, and the special effects that give live events their most electrifying moments.

Every great show is built by people who care deeply about every detail, every effect, and every moment. At Pyrotecnico, that's exactly who we are. If you thrive on big ideas and bold productions, you’ll feel right at home.

Position Summary / Objective

In this role you will play a crucial role in the planning, execution, and maintenance of our drone light shows and equipment. You will work closely with creative and technical teams to ensure each performance is safe, precise, and visually spectacular.

Role Responsibilities

The following duties represent the primary responsibilities of the role. This list is not exhaustive. The individual in this position will perform additional tasks as assigned, adhere to all provisions of the Employee Manual, and participate in company initiatives and projects.

Fleet Maintenance & Technical Operations

  • Perform daily inspections, diagnostics, and preventative maintenance to ensure fleet readiness and reliability.
  • Conduct hardware repairs and component replacements as needed.
  • Manage battery systems, including charging, health monitoring, and rotation schedules.
  • Identify recurring technical issues and escalate fleet-wide concerns to the Department Manager.

Inventory & Asset Management

  • Track and maintain accountability for drones and support equipment.
  • Scan, log, and manage assets to ensure accurate inventory records.

Documentation & Reporting

  • Maintain detailed maintenance logs for all aircraft and equipment.
  • Provide regular fleet status updates and communicate issues to the Department Manager.

Flight Operations

  • Operate as pilot-in-command or supporting pilot during drone light shows.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues on-site to ensure smooth operations.

Site Planning & Safety

  • Conduct site surveys, airspace assessments, and safety evaluations prior to operations.
  • Maintain FAA Part 107 certification and ensure regulatory compliance.

Show Logistics & Coordination

  • Coordinate with the Department Manager on logistics, travel, and crew assignments.
  • Participate in post-show debriefs and report operational or equipment issues.

Fleet Preparation & Technical Support

  • Assist with fleet preparation during non-show periods, including battery management and show loading.
  • Support overall operational readiness in collaboration with warehouse technicians.

Work Environment

The person in this role will frequently move throughout the warehouse as well as indoor and outdoor event venues. The person will occasionally move within the office to access office equipment and interact with other individuals in the facility.

Physical Demands

The person in this role must be able to walk, bend, stoop, stand, and climb frequently throughout the workday. The person must be able to remain stationary for periods of time depending on the task or shift requirements. The person must have the ability to push or pull up to 100 pounds occasionally. The person must have the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently.

Position Type / Expected Hours of Work

The typical work schedule for this position follows a standard workday, with occasional flexibility for evening and weekend work during high-volume periods. All breaks and lunches will comply with local, state, and federal laws, and overtime, if required, will be compensated in accordance with local, state, and federal laws.

Travel

This position requires travel, up to 25% of the time. Travel will be mixed, local and outside the local area and overnight.

Required

  • Completion of a recognized drone pilot training program.
  • Knowledge of FAA regulations and best practices for safe drone operations.
  • Proficiency in operating and maintaining drone systems.
  • Strong technical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Valid Part 107 Drone Pilot Certificate.

Preferred

  • Previous experience in live events production or the entertainment industry is preferred but not required.
  • Google Workspace, NetSuite, HubSpot, and Monday.com are preferred.

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