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Drone Programming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Northstar Energy Services

Drone Pilot

Midland, TX · On-site

PWR) company, is based in Channelview, TX and provides engineering, design, procurement ... The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate ...

Scout AI

Drone Operator

Paso Robles, CA

$18.25 - $20.25/hr

The Role We're hiring a Drone Operator to join our Mission Operations team at our test site in Paso ... Provide clear, structured feedback to engineers on system performance, failure modes, and edge ...

Northstar Energy Services

Drone Pilot

Midland, TX

PWR) company, is based in Channelview, TX and provides engineering, design, procurement ... The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate ...

Quanta Services

Drone Pilot

Midland, TX

PWR) company, is based in Channelview, TX and provides engineering, design, procurement ... The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate ...

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Drone Programming information

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$25K

$88.9K

$149K

How much do drone programming jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone programming in the United States is $88,946.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,500.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Drone Programming position, and why are they important?

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 a Drone Programming job?

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.

More about Drone Programming jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Programming jobs? Cities with the most Drone Programming job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Programming jobs? The most popular types of Drone Programming jobs are:
What states have the most Drone Programming jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Programming jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Programming jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Programming jobs are:
Drone Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Programming job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,946 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
Drone Pilot

Drone Pilot

Northstar Energy Services

Midland, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

About Us
NorthStar Energy Services, a Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR) company, is based in Channelview, TX and provides engineering, design, procurement, construction and support services to the chemical, petrochemical, pipeline, oil & gas, bulk storage and terminal industries throughout the country. We offer individual project services as well as turnkey EPC project implementation.
NorthStar possesses the skills and expertise to self-perform the design and installation of civil, structural, mechanical, piping, electrical, and instrumentation systems throughout a broad array of industrial applications.
Joining our team means being part of an organization that values drive and inclusion. We focus on career development and reward excellence, recognizing each team member's unique contributions. We're at the forefront of powering modern life. Discover how your skills and dedication can make a real difference to us.
About this Role
NorthStar Energy Services is seeking a Drone Pilot & Project Documentation Specialist to support data center construction projects throughout West Texas and surrounding regions.
This role is responsible for capturing aerial imagery and video to document project progress, support client reporting, and provide visual insight into ongoing construction activities. The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate with project teams, and maintain organized project documentation throughout the construction lifecycle.
What You'll Do
  • Travel to active data center construction sites to capture aerial photography and video of project progress
  • Operate unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in compliance with FAA regulations and company policies
  • Document construction milestones, site conditions, equipment installation, and project progress for internal and client reporting
  • Coordinate with project managers, construction managers, and field leadership to schedule site visits and capture key project activities
  • Organize, edit, and maintain photo and video files in accordance with company documentation standards
  • Develop recurring progress reports and visual project updates for clients and leadership teams
  • Conduct pre-flight inspections and maintain drone equipment in safe operating condition
  • Maintain flight logs, airspace authorizations, and required FAA documentation
  • Support special project documentation needs, marketing initiatives, and project closeout activities as requested

What You'll Bring
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required
  • Experience operating drones in construction, industrial, infrastructure, or commercial environments preferred
  • Strong photography and videography skills
  • Experience organizing and managing large volumes of digital project documentation
  • Ability to work independently and manage travel across multiple project locations
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and cloud-based file management platforms
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to travel extensively throughout West Texas and other project locations as required
  • Experience with DJI Enterprise platforms or similar commercial drone systems
  • Experience with drone mapping, orthomosaic imagery, or photogrammetry softwar
  • Basic video editing and content creation skills

What You'll Get
As a Quanta Services employee, we offer a wide range of benefits to fit your needs.
  • 401(k) with immediate matching and vesting
  • Fully comprehensive benefits packages; Medical, Dental, Vision
    • Your choice of PPO, HSA, FSA
  • Short term and long term benefits
  • Employee discounts on consumer goods

#LI-GR1
Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

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