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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 ...

Bear Country Inc

Drone Show Designer

Caledonia, WI

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 ...

Kiewit

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 ...

Mach Industries

Field Drone Technician

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and R&D teams to support product development. * Ensure ... Stay current with evolving drone technologies, FAA rule changes, and industry trends. Required ...

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How much do drone engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 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 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.

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 drone applications expand.

What type of engineers work on drones?

Drone engineering involves various types of engineers, including aerospace engineers who design and develop drone hardware, electrical engineers who work on the drone's electronic systems, and software engineers who create flight control and navigation software. These professionals often collaborate and require knowledge of aerodynamics, embedded systems, and programming tools like CAD and simulation software.

What is the highest paying drone job?

The highest paying drone jobs typically include drone pilot for aerial surveying, mapping, or inspection services, especially in industries like oil and gas, construction, or cinematography. These roles often require advanced certifications, specialized skills, and experience, with salaries reaching six figures for senior or specialized positions. High-paying roles also involve managing large projects or operating in hazardous environments.

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.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, software, or petroleum engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.
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Drone Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,977 per year, or $30.3 per hour.
Geomatics Field Engineer - Drone Pilot

Geomatics Field Engineer - Drone Pilot

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

Dallas, TX

Full-time

Posted yesterday

McCarthy Building Companies rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Drone Operations Pilot is responsible for the planning, execution, and management of all drone flight operations on assigned projects. This includes mission planning, UAV operation, aerial data acquisition, equipment maintenance, and preliminary data processing. The Drone Operations Pilot will coordinate closely with survey crews, project management teams, and engineering staff to ensure aerial datasets meet project requirements and integrate properly with survey control, design models, and GIS systems. This role reports to the Geomatics Manager, who provides operational direction, technical support, and professional development. The Drone Operations Pilot plays a critical role in delivering high-quality aerial datasets that support project planning, construction progress tracking, site analysis, and as-built documentation.
 
This is a full-time, site-based position that requires extensive travel to locations that may span the Southern Region. Travel subsistence and additional incentives provided per company guidelines.
 
RESPONSIBILITIES
Safety & Quality
  • Ensure adherence to all company safety policies and procedures
  • Maintain compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and airspace authorization requirements 
  • Conduct pre-flight planning, safety briefings, and risk assessments for all UAV missions 
  • Maintain flight logs, aircraft documentation, and operational records 
  • Ensure safe UAV operations around construction equipment, personnel, and project infrastructure
Drone Operations & Aerial Data Acquisition
  • Plan and execute UAV flight missions for topographic mapping, LiDAR scanning, orthomosaic generation, and site monitoring 
  • Operate UAV platforms equipped with LiDAR, photogrammetry, thermal, infrared, and multispectral sensors 
  • Establish and utilize ground control points (GCPs) and check points to ensure survey-grade accuracy 
  • Conduct aerial surveys to support earthwork analysis, site progress documentation, stockpile measurement, and terrain modeling 
  • Coordinate flight operations with project management and field crews to minimize disruption to construction activities
  • Perform UAV equipment inspection, calibration, maintenance, and firmware updates
  • Coordinate with Geomatics, Operations, and Design teams to ensure aerial data supports project needs
  • Participate in project coordination meetings and planning discussions
  • Work with Geomatics leadership to improve UAV workflows, processing standards, and operational procedures
  • Participate in internal training and technical development programs
  • Support development of scalable drone workflows across projects
QUALIFICATIONS
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (Required)
  • 2+ years experience operating UAVs in commercial, survey, or construction environments
  • Experience with photogrammetry and/or LiDAR drone systems
  • Familiarity with Autodesk Civil 3D, Trimble Business Center, Agisoft, Global Mapper or similar processing software (Preferred)
  • Experience with GNSS survey equipment and ground control workflows (Preferred)
  • Strong ability to communicate and collaborate with project teams
  • Developmentally minded with a focus on continuous improvement
  • Knowledge of construction and engineering project workflows is beneficial
  • Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and work on your feet for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, climb, and perform physically demanding tasks as required by the job.
McCarthy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
NOTICE TO EXTERNAL SEARCH FIRMS: McCarthy’s Talent Acquisition Team is the only authorized representative permitted to engage with external search firms, staffing agencies, or other third-party recruiting partners. McCarthy maintains an Approved Agency List for recruiting partners, which is reviewed and updated annually.
McCarthy will only consider submissions from agencies with a signed fee agreement in place for the current year. McCarthy does not accept unsolicited resumes, candidate submissions, or referrals from agencies that do not meet these requirements.
If a candidate is submitted without an active agreement, McCarthy will have no obligation to pay any fees and reserves the right to contact, engage, interview, or hire such candidate(s) without any financial or other responsibility to the submitting agency. Unsolicited resumes, including those sent directly to hiring managers or other employees, will be considered the property of McCarthy.

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About McCarthy Building

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

McCarthy Building, headquartered in Saint Louis, MO, US, is a leading construction company primarily offering general contracting, design-build and construction management services throughout the United States. Its prominent industry presence can be explored in detail on its official website, mccarthy.com. Founded in 1864, the company has built a robust legacy marked by significant contributions to the U.S. construction industry. McCarthy Building engages a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, renewable energy, and advanced technology.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1864

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