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Drone Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Drone Operator

Paso Robles, CA

$18.25 - $20.25/hr

The Role We're hiring a Drone Operator to join our Mission Operations team at our test site in Paso ... Provide clear, structured feedback to engineers on system performance, failure modes, and edge ...

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Drone Engineer information

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$12

$55

$80

How much do drone engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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.

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.

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What cities are hiring for Drone Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Drone Engineer job openings:

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

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What states have the most Drone Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drone Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Drone Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,463 per year, or $56 per hour.

Instructor-sUAS (Drone) Technology

Chess

Espanola, NM

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Compensation:

CompensationType:

Exempt

Employment Type:

Adjunct/Part Time Faculty (Fixed Term)

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Grade:

E17

Department:

Instruction

Position Summary

Instructors are faculty appointed on an annual basis and hired under a faculty contract. Instructors are normally hired in Career and Technical Education Programs. Appointments of instructors follow the recommendation of the Dean and the approval of the Provost. Appropriate certification, licensure, and/or professional achievements may justify appointment.

Duties & Responsibilities

Northern New Mexico College is seeking candidates to teach sUAS (Drone) Technology courses in the Arts & Human Sciences Department. sUAS (Drone) Technology curriculum includes pilot operation, FAA Part 107 certification preparation, commercial deployment of Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS), still and moving imagery, surveying, and mapping.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master's degree and FAA Part 107 Drone Certification. Demonstrated expertise in sUAS Technology in filmmaking, science, engineering, or applicable professional fields. Candidate must demonstrate excellent communication skills; have teaching and industry experience.

Application Process:

Submit a letter of interest, CV/resume, transcripts/certification, teaching, examples of professional work, and current contact information of three professional references.

EEO STATEMENT: NNMC is an equal opportunity employer.