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Drone Programming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Staff Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA ยท On-site

$328K - $349K/yr

Wing offers drone delivery as a safe, fast, and sustainable solution for last mile logistics ... Wing is looking for a Senior Staff Software Engineer to join our Ground Systems team. This role ...

Senior Staff Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA ยท Hybrid

$328K - $349K/yr

Wing offers drone delivery as a safe, fast, and sustainable solution for last mile logistics ... Wing is looking for a Senior Staff Software Engineer to join our Ground Systems team. This role ...

Manufacturing Engineer

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$87K - $113K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role The Manufacturing Engineer at Westmag will play a pivotal role in scaling and ...

Manufacturing Engineer

South San Francisco, CA

$87K - $113K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role The Manufacturing Engineer at Westmag will play a pivotal role in scaling and ...

Software Engineer (iOS)

Sausalito, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Demonstrated experience with robust networking, including asynchronous programming and handling ... drone paths and detected hazards. * Prior experience in robotics, autonomous systems, defense, or ...

Manufacturing Engineer

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$87K - $113K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role The Manufacturing Engineer at Westmag will play a pivotal role in scaling and ...

Mechatronics Engineer

Palo Alto, CA ยท On-site

$190K - $198K/yr

Wing offers drone delivery as a safe, fast, and sustainable solution for last mile logistics ... Wing is looking for a Mechatronics Engineer to join our Aircraft Development team. This role is ...

Mechatronics Engineer

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role As a Mechatronics Engineer at Westmag, you will play a key role in designing ...

Mechatronics Engineer

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role As a Mechatronics Engineer at Westmag, you will play a key role in designing ...

Mechatronics Engineer

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About Westmag Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by ... About the role As a Mechatronics Engineer at Westmag, you will play a key role in designing ...

Senior Software Engineer - Mobile Platform

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$152K - $190K/yr

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, focusing on empowering a diverse audience of drone users. They are seeking a Senior Android Engineer who will design ...

Showing results 41-60

Drone Programming information

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.

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.

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 cities in California are hiring for Drone Programming jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drone Programming job openings:

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.

Hardware Test Engineer

Western Magnetics

South San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 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 Hardware Test Engineer at Westmag, you will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability and performance of our drone motors and robotic actuators. You will own all aspects of the test function, from designing test rigs to proposing design and process improvements based on test data. You will collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and customer teams to uphold product excellence and customer satisfaction.

What you'll own
  • Develop, maintain, and execute motor and actuator test processes.
  • Design and build test rigs for production and R&D hardware.
  • Analyze test data to identify trends, root causes, and opportunities for improvements.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including design, manufacturing, and field applications to root cause reliability and performance issues.
  • Support new product qualification and certification activities.
  • Document test processes, develop testing SOPs, and hire and train test technicians.

Requirements

Required qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 3+ years of experience in test engineering, or a related function, preferably in motor, robotics, or aerospace industries.
  • Experience designing and building test equipment and implementing test programs.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive design and process improvements.
  • Proficient with test equipment (dynamometer, oscilloscope, power analyzer, etc.), data acquisition systems, and statistical analysis tools.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with experience working in cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred qualifications
  • Experience with drone motor or robotic actuator testing.
  • Knowledge of motor control, thermal management, and reliability engineering.
  • Experience with test automation and software tools for test management.