ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drone Programming Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Heven AeroTech

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA · On-site

This role involves overseeing all drone operations, training programs, and compliance with ... engineering teams to inform design objectives and improvements Qualifications & Experience:

Heven AeroTech

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA

This role involves overseeing all drone operations, training programs, and compliance with ... engineering teams to inform design objectives and improvements Qualifications & Experience:

Droneshield

Proposal Specialist (US)

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

At DroneShield, employees work at the leading edge of counter-drone innovation, helping to address ... You will collaborate closely with sales, engineering, legal, finance, and executive stakeholders.

Heven AeroTech

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA · On-site

This role involves overseeing all drone operations, training programs, and compliance with ... engineering teams to inform design objectives and improvements Qualifications & Experience:

Bechtel

PIMS Senior GIS Administrator

Reston, VA · On-site

$123K - $178K/yr

... Developer, GIS Specialist, GIS Analyst, or a related role, with demonstrated capabilities in GIS. * Demonstrated experience processing reality-capture data (LiDAR point clouds and/or drone ...

Bechtel

PIMS Senior GIS Administrator

Reston, VA · On-site

$123K - $178K/yr

... Developer, GIS Specialist, GIS Analyst, or a related role, with demonstrated capabilities in GIS. * Demonstrated experience processing reality-capture data (LiDAR point clouds and/or drone ...

D-Fend Solutions

Sales Operations Specialist

Mclean, VA · On-site

As the global leader in cyber-takeover counter-drone technology, we develop advanced solutions that ... Bachelor's degree in business administration, industrial engineering, marketing, or a related field

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsDrone Programming JobsDrone Programming Jobs in Virginia

Drone Programming information

See Virginia salary details

$24.8K

$88.2K

$147.7K

How much do drone programming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone programming in Virginia is $88,184.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Virginia? The most popular types of Drone Programming jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Drone Programming jobs in Virginia? For Drone Programming jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Programming jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Programming jobs in Virginia are:
Drone Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Programming job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,184 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Chief UAS Pilot

Heven AeroTech

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Title: Chief UAS Pilot
Company: Heven AeroTech
Location: Sterling, Virginia
FLSA: Exempt
Reports To: U.S. President of Operations
About Our Company:
At Heven AeroTech (Heven), we don't just believe in the power of people-we build our success on it. As a recognized leader in hydrogen-powered drones, we've earned recognition for creating a workplace where innovation thrives, collaboration is second nature, and every employee feels valued. Our culture is anchored in trust and a shared commitment to excellence.
We believe great teams are built on individuals who are humble, hungry, and smart-those who put team success first, take initiative to continuously improve, and demonstrate strong interpersonal awareness. At Heven, your voice matters, your ideas are heard, and your contributions make a tangible impact as you grow through hands-on experience and collaboration across the team.
Role Summary:
The Chief Unmanned System Pilot at Heven AeroTech is responsible for developing and managing the drone program across the United States and among the defense, public safety and commercial sectors. This role involves overseeing all drone operations, training programs, and compliance with regulatory requirements, ensuring safe and effective use of UAVs. The Chief Pilot will also act as the primary pilot and aviation technical advisor, collaborating with various departments to enhance operational efficiency and safety.
Essential Responsibilities:
  • Oversee the Heven AeroTech United States Drone program in collaboration with our overseas offices.
  • Oversee all drones, drone pilots, programs, and training for the United States.
  • Work with supply chain management to source NDAA compliant parts and materials for our portfolio of UAVs in compliance with Cyber Security and logistics requirements.
  • Register all drones and collaborate with insurance and the FAA and other regulatory authorities.
  • Act as the authorized primary pilot and aviation technical advisor, including all associated support equipment (Ground Control Station, hydrogen generation equipment, etc.)
  • Develop, implement, and manage the training program for drone pilots and ground crew.
  • Conduct initial and refresher training for pilots and ground crew.
  • Administer final qualification checks and oversee continuation training for personnel.
  • Monitor and maintain flight crew records and qualifications in compliance with FAA regulations.
  • Certify training pilots to train customer pilots on flight operations for Part 107 operations.
  • Develop and manage the process for flight plan review 48 hours prior to flight and concise test reports and/or summaries after flight.
  • Develop and manage all necessary flight and maintenance logbooks across all flight and Ground Support Equipment platforms and teams.
  • Become intimately familiar with all areas of the product portfolio to include Air Vehicles (operations and maintenance), Ground Control Stations and associated software/user interfaces, and all Ground Support Equipment.
  • Support the development of sustainment-ready military UAS by providing product feedback to the engineering teams to inform design objectives and improvements

Qualifications & Experience:
Required:
  • At least five years practical experience with secure radio frequency (RF) or beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and satellite communication (SATCOM)
  • At least five years' of payload experience with EO/IR cameras, thermal imaging sensors, LiDAR, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and communication relays.
  • A minimum of 1500 hours of total flight time on a multi-rotor system as the PIC with at least 40 take-offs and landings within the previous 90 days.
  • Experience with Group II and/or Group III fixed wing UAS.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
  • Self-motivated and disciplined.
  • Experience in developing, writing, or maintaining programs and systems.
  • Experience in training delivery and development.
  • Ability to organize and maintain registrations, insurance, certifications, and training records.
  • FAA licensed with at least a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and a Class II medical certificate.

Preferred:
  • Experience deploying and leading UAS teams in hostile threat environments.
  • Practical experience working with the DoD or law enforcement (federal, state or local) with the deployment of unmanned systems

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to travel 50% of the time, CONUS and OCONUS.
  • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.
  • Paid vacation, sick days, and holidays.
  • Paid personal and maternity/parental leaves.
  • Employee and Family Assistance Program

Benefits Overview:
Heven AeroTech offers a competitive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and overall well-being of our employees and their families. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off/sick, and additional protections such as critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident coverage, and short- and long-term disability.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Heven AeroTech is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
Budgeted Salary Range:
$125,000-$200,000 USD

Apply