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Drone Programming Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Allen Control Systems

Advanced Drone Operator

Austin, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our ... This person will play a key role in executing flight tests, evaluating drone performance, and ...

Allen Control Systems

Advanced Drone Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our ... This person will play a key role in executing flight tests, evaluating drone performance, and ...

Allen Control Systems

Advanced Drone Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our ... This person will play a key role in executing flight tests, evaluating drone performance, and ...

Allen Control Systems

Advanced Drone Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our ... This person will play a key role in executing flight tests, evaluating drone performance, and ...

Doodle Labs

Product Manager Drone & Unmanned Systems

Austin, TX · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Product Manager Drone & Unmanned Systems About Doodle Labs Doodle Labs builds the connectivity ... In this role, you will work closely with Engineering, Sales, Marketing, and Solutions to gather ...

9 Mothers Corporation

Integration Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Our flagship product is a low-power, counter-drone system built for the edge--on vehicles, at bases ... Proficient in at least one modern programming language commonly used for integration work (e.g ...

New

9 Mothers Corporation

Integration Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Our flagship product is a low-power, counter-drone system built for the edge--on vehicles, at bases ... Proficient in at least one modern programming language commonly used for integration work (e.g ...

New

Wild West Systems Inc.

Firmware Engineer

Leander, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Firmware Engineer - Autonomous Weapons & Drone Systems Location: Onsite -Leander, TX Type: Full-Time Eligibility: U.S. Citizenship or ITAR-Eligible Status Required Build the intelligence behind the ...

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All JobsDrone Programming JobsDrone Programming Jobs in Austin, TX

Drone Programming information

See Austin, TX salary details

$24.8K

$88.2K

$147.7K

How much do drone programming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone programming in Austin, TX is $88,165.00, 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 popular job titles related to Drone Programming jobs in Austin, TX? For Drone Programming jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Programming jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Programming jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Drone Programming jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Drone Programming job openings:
Drone Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Programming job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,165 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Advanced Drone Operator

Allen Control Systems

Austin, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Overview:

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup, founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders' successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop will have a real-world impact.

Position Overview:


We are expanding our flight operations capability and opening a new role for a highly skilled drone operator who is experienced in building, configuring, and flying advanced UAV systems. This person will play a key role in executing flight tests, evaluating drone performance, and supporting real-world operational requirements. You will serve as an additional Part 107 certified pilot to meet our growing testing and mission needs.

What You'll Do:

  • Operate and maintain drones for testing, evaluation, and operational missions.
  • Plan and execute complex flight missions using Mission Planner and Beta Flight.
  • Build, configure, and troubleshoot drone hardware and software systems.
  • Collaborate with engineering and data teams to collect and validate aerial data for computer vision model training.
  • Conduct flight tests to evaluate performance and integrate feedback into drone design and operational procedures.
  • Document flight operations, maintain detailed logs, and support mission debriefs.

What You'll Need:

  • Part 107 certified pilot.
  • Hands-on experience in printing, building, and flying drones for offensive operations.
  • Operational understanding of how drones are being used in current conflicts around the world.
  • Proficient in Mission Planner and Beta Flight for mission planning and drone control.
  • Familiarity with data collection and integration into computer vision or analytics workflows.
  • 3+ years of relevant drone operation or robotics experience.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in dynamic, experimental environments.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary
  • ACS Equity Package
  • Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off

Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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