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Drone Programming Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

M.C. Dean, Inc

Deputy Engineering Leader - Tysons, VA

Tysons, VA · On-site

$117K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems, drone and drone interdiction systems, access control, intrusion detection, video ... Strong engineering & administration experience with most of the following core platforms and ...

Zetier

Mid-Level CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Responsibilities : • Experience with low-level programming (C/C++) • Experience developing in ... uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) • Reverse engineering experience (gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro) • ...

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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:

Heven AeroTech

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Amazon

Flight Monitor, Amazon - Prime Air

Richmond, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Our teams of hundreds of scientists, engineers, aerospace professionals, and futurists have been ... The Flight Monitor will be responsible for real-time monitoring of drone flights, ensuring ...

Amazon

Prime Air Ground Handler, Amazon Prime Air

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Our teams of hundreds of scientists, engineers, aerospace professionals, and futurists have been ... Support daily drone operations by handling and organizing equipment, including batteries and ...

Bechtel

PIMS Senior GIS Administrator

Reston, VA · On-site

$123K - $178K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

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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 15, 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, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,184 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Deputy Engineering Leader - Tysons, VA

M.C. Dean, Inc

Tysons, VA • On-site

$117K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

M.C. Dean rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
About M.C. Dean
M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. With over 9,000 employees, our capabilities span electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life safety, automation and controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers resilient, secure, and innovative power and technology solutions through engineering expertise and smart systems integration.
Why Join Us?
Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful change. Guided by our core values-agility, expertise, and trust-we foster a collaborative and forward-thinking work environment. At M.C. Dean, we are committed to building the next generation of technical leaders in electrical, engineering, and cybersecurity industries.
We are seeking a Deputy Engineering Leader to join our Security and Electronic Systems (SES) business Unit. As part of (SES) Strategic Business Unit you will be part of a team that designs, engineers, integrates, operates and maintains electronic security services inclusive of intrusion detection, access control, biometric authentication, video surveillance, audio visual, it systems, perimeter defense and command and control systems for federal, local and commercial customers across high-growth markets.
Responsibilities
  • Leading complex technical discussions, projects, and/or programs.
  • Validating world class technical solutions on projects.
  • Ensuring engineering best practices are followed across multiple engineering and solution disciplines.
  • Managing technical risk on a project.
  • Providing oversight, direction, and technical expertise to engineering teams on a project.
  • Preparing client-specific physical security technology solutions including cutting edge credential technology, AI vision systems, drone and drone interdiction systems, access control, intrusion detection, video management systems, and complex integrations.
  • Driving the development and maintenance of project artifacts from the requirements capture stage through the launch of new technology.
  • Identifying, recommending, and implementing work process improvements.
  • Reviewing technical project details with project leadership.
  • Managing the integration of data from multiple systems and analyzing the data to draw insights on project technical solutions.

Qualifications
Education/Experience:
  • Minimum 5+ year's recent experience in the construction industry with a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, 3+ year's recentexperience in the construction industry with a Master's Degree in Engineering.
  • Detailed, motivated, self-starter; must be able to work independently and lead in a team environment.
  • Strong engineering & administration experience with most of the following core platforms and services:
    • Access Control Systems such as CCURE 9000, Lenel OnGuard, Honeywell Prowatch, AMAG.
    • Video Management Systems such as Milestone XProtect, Genetec, Lenel Video management.
    • Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems such as Senstar, Southwest Microwave, SightLogix.
    • Other Electronic Security Systems such as Zenitel, HID, WIDS.
  • Familiarity with design/administration tools such as REVIT, Bluebeam, Autocad, ACC, Procore.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Windows Server, Windows 11 and general networking.
  • Microsoft Windows 11 Deployment and Administration.
  • Familiarity with Cyber security requirements.
  • Familiarity with inside plant and outside plant telecom requirements.
  • Strong Oral, Written and Presentation Skills with the ability and experience communicating directly with executive leadership.
  • Demonstrated background working with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Demonstrated time management and organization skills to meet deadlines and quality objectives.
  • Strong MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Visio Skills is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Design: background in design and engineering of mission critical facilities. Skill in calculations for electrical construction
  • Build: interest in the manufacture of modular builds for electrical construction
  • Delivery: serving as onsite liaison, overseeing installation, testing, & commission of electrical construction
  • PE License: willingness to obtain Professional Engineer license highly preferred
  • Software: Revit MEP, Navisworks, Bluebeam, MS Office, ETAP/SKM, AGI32, etc. highly preferred

What we offer:
  • A collaborative team inspired by the way engineering and innovation enhance customer outcomes, improve lives, and change the world for the better. We are driven by our core values of agility, expertise, and trust.
  • An opportunity to lead and build a business with the support of an industry-leading firm that has been in business for 75 years.
  • Investment in your skills and expertise through a combination of professional and technical training programs, including leadership training and tuition reimbursement.
  • Open and transparent communication with senior leadership as well as local office management.

We offer an excellent benefits package including:
  • A competitive salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Military Reserve pay offset
  • Paid maternity leave

Abilities:
  • Exposure to computer screens for an extended period of time.
  • Sitting for extended periods of time.
  • Reach by extending hands or arms in any direction.
  • Have finger dexterity in order to manipulate objects with fingers rather than whole hands or arms, for example, using a keyboard.
  • Listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
  • Communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
  • Read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  • Apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
  • Identify and understand the speech of another person.

Pay Range
USD $104,240.00 - USD $143,330.00 /Yr.

What M.C. Dean employees say

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About M.C. Dean

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most recognizable mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. The company's capabilities include electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life-safety, instrumentation and control, and command and control systems. M.C. Dean is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, and employs more than 5,100 professionals who engineer and deploy automated, secure, and resilient power and technology systems; and deliver the management platforms essential for long-term system sustainability.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tysons, VA, US

Year founded

1949

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