ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drone Engineering Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Mortenson

Lead Surveyor I - Civil

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

... engineer of record (EOR)/third-party surveyor coordination, coordinate system validation, early project communication, existing grad (EG) topographic/drone coordination, kickoff meetings, and site ...

Three Point Solutions

Content Analyst II

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

Support adoption of PixelScout, FieldAgent, drone scouting, software, and hardware solutions. * Collaborate with Product Management, Engineering, Marketing, and Customer Support teams. * Participate ...

Stantec

Reality Capture Project Manager

Woodbury, MN · On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial ... About Stantec Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and ...

Stantec

Reality Capture Project Manager

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial ... About Stantec Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and ...

Stantec

Reality Capture Project Manager

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial ... About Stantec Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and ...

Stantec

Reality Capture Project Manager

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial ... About Stantec Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrone Engineering JobsDrone Engineering Jobs in Minnesota

Drone Engineering information

See Minnesota salary details

$31.8K

$61.7K

$93.5K

How much do drone engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone engineering in Minnesota is $61,681.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $70,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is drone engineering?

Drone engineering is the field focused on the design, development, testing, and maintenance of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. Professionals in this area combine expertise in aeronautics, electronics, robotics, and software to create drones for various applications such as aerial photography, delivery services, agriculture, and surveillance. Drone engineers work on improving flight stability, control systems, payload integration, and autonomous capabilities. The field continues to grow rapidly with advancements in technology and expanding commercial and industrial use cases.

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 or electrical engineering, robotics, and programming, often backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, embedded systems, UAV simulation tools, and certifications like Part 107 for commercial drone operation are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, innovative, and efficient design, development, and deployment of drone systems in various industries.

What are some common challenges drone engineers face when integrating new technologies into unmanned aerial systems?

Drone engineers often encounter challenges when incorporating new technologies, such as ensuring seamless compatibility between hardware and software components, maintaining flight stability, and meeting regulatory requirements. Additionally, engineers must carefully manage power consumption and weight to optimize flight time and payload capacity. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including software developers and regulatory specialists, is essential to address these complexities and deliver innovative, reliable drone solutions.

What is the difference between Drone Engineering vs Drone Pilot?

AspectDrone EngineeringDrone Pilot
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in drone design and systemsFAA drone pilot certification, flight experience
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D centersOn-site or remote flight operations, outdoor and indoor locations
Industry UsageDeveloping drone hardware/software, system integrationOperating drones for filming, surveying, inspections

Drone Engineering focuses on designing and developing drone systems, requiring technical engineering skills and certifications. In contrast, Drone Pilots operate drones in the field, emphasizing flight skills and certifications. Both roles are essential in the drone industry but serve different functions based on expertise and work environment.

How much do drone engineers make?

Drone engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in aerodynamics, electronics, and programming can lead to higher salaries, especially in specialized or high-demand sectors.

Is drone engineering a good career?

Drone engineering is a growing field that involves designing, developing, and maintaining unmanned aerial systems, often requiring skills in aeronautics, electronics, and software. It offers opportunities in industries such as defense, agriculture, and delivery services, with a demand for specialized knowledge and certifications. The career can be rewarding for those interested in technology and innovation, with potential for advancement as the industry expands.

What type of drone engineers work on drones?

Drone engineers typically include aerospace engineers, electrical engineers, and mechanical engineers who design, develop, and test drone systems. They often have skills in aerodynamics, embedded systems, and software programming, and may work with tools like CAD software and flight control systems.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Engineering jobs in Minnesota?

For Drone Engineering jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Engineering jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Engineering jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Drone Engineering jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Drone Engineering job openings:

Drone Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Engineering job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,681 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineering Assembly Technician

Three Point Solutions

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$29 - $31/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Title :        Manufacturing Engineering Assembly Technician
Client :             Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company
Duration :        2 Years (Possible Extension)
Location :        St. Paul, MN 55114
Shift :               1st Shift (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM)

Job Summary
• Support assembly, integration, testing, and troubleshooting of electro-mechanical drone sensor systems
• Work on production builds, design updates, quality processes, and manufacturing support
• Coordinate with engineering and contract manufacturers for production activities

Key Responsibilities
• Perform technical assembly and box-build integration
• Support production design updates and manufacturing improvements
• Conduct system checkout, testing, debugging, and fault analysis
• Create and maintain technical documentation and QA processes
• Support production schedule planning and material coordination
• Work with engineering teams on design changes and troubleshooting
• Support optical assembly, alignment, focusing, and flight testing
• Ensure defect-free production and timely order completion

Required Skills
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Experience with technical assembly/production environments
• PTC Creo experience – 1+ year preferred
• Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Ability to interpret technical requirements independently
• Ability to work in a team environment

Preferred Skills
• BS Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Mechanics
• Experience with manufacturing documentation/change management
• Experience with electrical hardware or system integration
• QA process and contract manufacturer coordination experience
• Drone, optical, or electro-mechanical systems exposure

Work Environment
• Approximately 75% standing/walking during shift
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs required
• Manufacturing and engineering support environment

Education / Certification
• A.S. in Electronics, Technical Diploma, Military Certification, or equivalent experience
• Part 107 Certification required within 3 months of employment

#ZR