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Drone Programming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Western Magnetics

Engineering Intern

South San Francisco, CA

$20.25 - $26.25/hr

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... Basic knowledge of relevant tools or software (CAD, PCB layout tools, embedded programming, data ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA · On-site

$103K - $179K/yr

Overview LMI is seeking a Drone Pilot /Autonomy Test Operator to support a Department of War ... Rapid capability iteration with engineers and developers You will serve as a key operational test ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA

$103K - $179K/yr

Overview LMI is seeking a Drone Pilot /Autonomy Test Operator to support a Department of War ... Rapid capability iteration with engineers and developers You will serve as a key operational test ...

Seneca

Software Engineer (iOS)

Sausalito, CA · On-site

$159K/yr

Seneca is eliminating the $1 trillion threat of wildfire across 500 million acres with AI-powered autonomous drone systems. They are seeking a highly motivated iOS Engineer to build and maintain ...

LMI

Drone Pilot - Clearance Required

Fort Bragg, CA

$103K - $179K/yr

LMI is seeking a Drone Pilot /Autonomy Test Operator to support a Department of War mission partner ... Rapid capability iteration with engineers and developers You will serve as a key operational test ...

Mirafra Technology

Test Automation Engineer

San Diego, CA

$48.75 - $64.50/hr

San Diego, CA SW engineer needed to develop test automation for Linux Drone platform using Qualcomm's MSM chipset platform. Candidate will also be involved with drone technology work including flying ...

Western Magnetics

Quality Engineer

South San Francisco, CA

$86K - $111K/yr

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role As a Quality Engineer at Westmag, you will be responsible for ensuring the quality ...

Scout AI

Mission Operator - UAV

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $29.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Lead and schedule the drone operator team day to day * Partner with the Flight Test Engineer to drive product development on the air platform - shaping test priorities, splitting execution, and ...

Western Magnetics

Quality Engineer

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role As a Quality Engineer at Westmag, you will be responsible for ensuring the quality ...

Western Magnetics

Quality Engineer

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role As a Quality Engineer at Westmag, you will be responsible for ensuring the quality ...

Westmag

Hardware Test Engineer

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$105 - $145/hr

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role As a Hardware Test Engineer at Westmag, you will play a critical role in ensuring ...

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Drone Programming information

What is drone programming?

A Drone Programming job involves developing software and algorithms to control drones for various applications, such as aerial photography, mapping, surveillance, or autonomous navigation. Programmers work with flight control systems, sensor integration, computer vision, and communication protocols to enhance drone functionality. This role requires proficiency in languages like Python, C++, and ROS, along with knowledge of robotics and AI.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in drone programming?

Drone Programming professionals require strong skills in computer programming (such as Python, C++, or ROS), robotics, and UAV systems, often backed by a relevant degree in computer science, engineering, or a similar field. Familiarity with drone-specific software platforms, flight control systems, and certifications like FAA Part 107 are commonly needed. Outstanding problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills are crucial in this role. These competencies ensure the reliable development, integration, and deployment of drone technologies in complex and dynamic environments.

What are the typical challenges faced when working as a drone programmer?

Drone Programmers often face challenges related to integrating hardware and software, optimizing flight control algorithms, and ensuring robust communication between the drone and ground stations. Adapting code to function reliably in varying weather conditions and environments, while meeting strict safety and regulatory standards, is a frequent aspect of the role. Collaborating closely with hardware engineers, pilots, and regulatory teams is common, requiring adaptability and teamwork. Overcoming these challenges helps professionals develop versatile solutions and excel in dynamic, technology-driven teams.

How much do drone programmers make?

Drone programmers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Advanced skills in programming languages, UAV systems, and certifications can lead to higher salaries in this specialized field.

How to become a drone programmer?

To become a drone programmer, you should have a strong foundation in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Java, and understand drone hardware and software systems. Gaining experience with drone development platforms, simulation tools, and relevant certifications can improve job prospects. Practical experience through projects or internships is also valuable in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Programming jobs in California?

The most popular types of Drone Programming jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Drone Programming jobs in California?

For Drone Programming jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Programming jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Programming jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Drone Programming jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drone Programming job openings:

Drone Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Programming job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Motor/Actuator Design Engineer

Western Magnetics

South San Francisco, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

About Westmag

Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by Andreessen Horowitz, Founders Fund, Lux Capital, NFDG, Menlo Ventures, and other top investors. Westmag is committed to building and scaling in the U.S. to serve the global market. For more information, visit westmag.com.

About the role

As a Motor/Actuator Design Engineer at Westmag, you will play a critical role in the design and development of advanced drone motors and robotic actuators. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to create high-efficiency, reliable, and innovative motor solutions that meet customer requirements. Your work will directly impact Westmag's position as a leader in drone and robotics motor technology.

What you'll own
  • Design and optimize motor and actuator architectures for drone and robotic applications.
  • Develop detailed motor design specifications, including electrical, mechanical, and thermal considerations.
  • Simulate and analyze motor performance using relevant software tools.
  • Work cross-functionally with Field Applications Engineers, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability.
  • Support prototyping, testing, and validation of new motor designs and contribute to continuous product improvements.
  • Document design processes, test results, and design revisions.
  • Stay current on emerging technologies and industry trends in motor and actuator design.

Requirements

Required qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 3+ years of experience in motor or actuator design, preferably in drone, robotics, or aerospace industries.
  • Strong foundation in electric motor theory including electromagnetic design, thermal management, and mechanical design.
  • Proficiency with motor design and simulation software (e.g., FEMM, ANSYS Maxwell, or equivalent).
  • Experience with CAD tools for mechanical design (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA).
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
  • Authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred qualifications
  • Experience designing brushless DC motors, actuators, or similar electromechanical devices.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes for motor components and assemblies.
  • Hands-on experience with prototype testing and validation.
  • Familiarity with drone or robotics industry requirements and standards.

Apply