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Drone Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ProSphere Tek

$15.50 - $20/hr

PSI is currently seeking a Drone Systems Engineering Intern for Summer 2026 to support the development of a next-generation modular drone system with a 200-mile range, designed for operation in DDIL ...

TSMG

UAS Drone Pilot

Houston, TX

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 ...

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 ...

Teledyne FLIR LLC

Sr. Drone Controls Engineer

Orem, UT · On-site

$84.30K - $111.30K/yr

Bachelors or advanced degree in Computer Science, Electrical/Computer Engineering or related field ... Experience with PX4 drone autopilot highly desired. * Experience interfacing with externals devices ...

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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 ...

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Drone Engineering information

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How much do drone engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone engineering in the United States is $62,977.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $72,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drone Engineer, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

More about Drone Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Drone Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Drone Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Drone Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Engineering jobs are:
Drone Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,977 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Advanced Drone Operator

Allen Control Systems

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Company Overview:
Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup, founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.
With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders' successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop will have a real-world impact.
Position Overview:
We are expanding our flight operations capability and opening a new role for a highly skilled drone operator who is experienced in building, configuring, and flying advanced UAV systems. This person will play a key role in executing flight tests, evaluating drone performance, and supporting real-world operational requirements. You will serve as an additional Part 107 certified pilot to meet our growing testing and mission needs.
What You'll Do:
  • Operate and maintain drones for testing, evaluation, and operational missions.
  • Plan and execute complex flight missions using Mission Planner and Beta Flight.
  • Build, configure, and troubleshoot drone hardware and software systems.
  • Collaborate with engineering and data teams to collect and validate aerial data for computer vision model training.
  • Conduct flight tests to evaluate performance and integrate feedback into drone design and operational procedures.
  • Document flight operations, maintain detailed logs, and support mission debriefs.

What You'll Need:
  • Part 107 certified pilot.
  • Hands-on experience in printing, building, and flying drones for offensive operations.
  • Operational understanding of how drones are being used in current conflicts around the world.
  • Proficient in Mission Planner and Beta Flight for mission planning and drone control.
  • Familiarity with data collection and integration into computer vision or analytics workflows.
  • 3+ years of relevant drone operation or robotics experience.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in dynamic, experimental environments.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams.

What We Offer:
  • Competitive salary
  • ACS Equity Package
  • Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off

Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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