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Drone Engineering Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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

Serve as a primary drone resource through flight operations, Propeller project site creation ... ABOUT MORTENSON As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction ...

You have strong experience working with CI/CD tools like Circle CI, Drone, or similar. * You have experience in Native mobile iOS or Android engineering. * You have experience actively using AI ...

Engineer

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site +1

$132K - $238K/yr

You have deep and broad engineering skills and are capable of standing up an architecture in its ... Kafka CI/CD: Docker, Drone, Vela Metrics & Monitoring: InfluxDB, Grafana Databases: Postgres ...

Engineer

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site +1

$132K - $238K/yr

You have deep and broad engineering skills and are capable of standing up an architecture in its ... Kafka CI/CD: Docker, Drone, Vela Metrics & Monitoring: InfluxDB, Grafana Databases: Postgres ...

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Drive execution through the broader engineering team - directing the PNT budget owner, timing ...

Lead Engineer

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site +1

$132K - $238K/yr

You have deep and broad engineering skills and are capable of standing up an architecture in its ... Kafka CI/CD: Docker, Drone, Vela Metrics & Monitoring: InfluxDB, Grafana Databases: Postgres ...

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... S. in Electrical Engineering or a related field (M.S. preferred). * 10+ years of electrical ...

Lead Engineer

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site +1

$132K - $238K/yr

You have deep and broad engineering skills and are capable of standing up an architecture in its ... Kafka CI/CD: Docker, Drone, Vela Metrics & Monitoring: InfluxDB, Grafana Databases: Postgres ...

You constantly demonstrate the depth of your expertise by solving engineering problems. You are ... CI/CD: Docker, Drone, Vela * Metrics & Monitoring: InfluxDB, Grafana * Databases: Postgres ...

Experience utilizing CI/CD technologies (Git,Jenkins/Drone) Experience with programming languages in either python, java, or go Demonstrate some proficiency with Linux Operating Systems Understands ...

Showing results 21-40

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 23, 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 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:

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.

Reality Capture Project Manager

Stantec

Plymouth, MN • On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Stantec rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Strong communities don't just happen. They're thoughtfully planned and future-ready. We bring life to urban downtowns, suburban hubs, small towns, and rural areas through master-planned communities, mixed-use developments, parks, and recreation facilities. The result: vibrant economic centers, resilient neighborhoods, and welcoming places that feel like home.
If you're passionate about empowering communities, join us to discover a career with endless opportunities to make communities more equitable, resilient, and livable.
Accurate data is the top priority for our Geomatics team. Through our work, we measure, process, and analyze spatial data and define land boundaries. We provide our clients a full range of Geomatics, surveying, and mapping services. Join a team of inspired and talented professionals who continually find inventive ways to get the job done safer, better, faster, and smarter.
Your Opportunity
The Reality Capture Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of 3D scanning projects (LiDAR, drone photogrammetry) to create accurate digital representations of sites. They lead field data collection, ensure BIM/Revit integration, manage budgets, and ensure quality control, acting as the bridge between field technicians, modeling teams, and clients
Your Key Responsibilities
  • Data Acquisition & Strategy: Lead strategies for capturing existing conditions, including drone surveys and mobile/terrestrial LiDAR scanning.
  • Field Operations & Strategy: Plan scanning coverage, define capture techniques, and oversee data registration using tools like Leica RTC360, BLK360, and UAVs (drones).
  • Data Processing & QA/QC: Perform quality assurance checks on point clouds, meshes, and models to ensure accuracy.
  • BIM/VDC Integration: Coordinate with Reality Capture team and clients teams to align captured data with project CAD/Revit models.
  • BIM Integration: Integrate data into workflows to drive BIM/VDC compliance, supporting clients
  • Equipment Management: Manage hardware, software (FARO Scene, Cyclone, Recap, NavVis), and ensure quality control (QA/QC) of deliverables.
  • Innovation & Training: Evaluate emerging tech, develop best practices, and train technicians and project teams in scanning technologies.
  • Project Management & Budgeting: Manage project timelines, schedules, and deliverables for Reality Capture projects.
  • Client Management & Proposal Development: Act as the primary point of contact, defining project scope and estimating fees.
  • Team Leadership: Train technicians on new technologies (3D cameras, scanners) and develop SOPs.

Your Capabilities and Credentials:
  • Software Proficiency: Experience with Revit, Navisworks, AutoCAD, and point cloud registration software.
  • Skills: Strong project management, communication, and ability to bridge field operations with technical modeling.
  • Education: Associates degree or equivalent work experience in Surveying related field.
  • Technical Experience: 5+ years of experience in laser scanning, drone surveying, and point cloud processing.
  • Certifications: FAA Part 107 license often required for drone operations.

Education and Experience
Typical office environment working with computers and remaining sedentary for long periods of time. Field work may include exposure to the elements including inclement weather. This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
About Stantec
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what's previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what's possible.
Pay Range:
• Locations in MN, OH, VT, & Various CA, NY Areas-$92,600.00 - $138,900.00 Annually
Pay Transparency: In compliance with pay transparency laws, pay ranges are provided for positions in locations where required. Please note, the final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. At Stantec certain roles are bonus eligible. Actual compensation for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on the agreed number of working hours per week.
Benefits Summary: Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, health saving accounts, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase program, life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term/long-term disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage and paid family leave. Regular full-time and part-time employees will receive ten paid holidays in each calendar year. In addition, employees will be eligible to accrue vacation between 10 and 20 days per year and eligible for paid sick leave (and if more generous, in accordance with state and local law).
Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock purchase program, and paid leave, in accordance with state and local law.
The benefits information listed above may not apply to union positions because benefits for such positions are governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements
Primary Location: United States | MN | Minneapolis
Other Locations: United States | MN | Plymouth
Organization: BC-1903 CommDev-US North Central
Employee Status: Regular
Business Justification: Replacement
Travel: Yes
Schedule: Full time
Job Posting: 15/04/2026 05:04:03
Req ID: 1005370
#additional
Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment. At Stantec we are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process then please inform a member of our Talent Acquisition team.

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