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Drone Software Engineer Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

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Drone Software Engineer information

See Kansas salary details

$56.6K

$131.6K

$183.3K

How much do drone software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone software engineer in Kansas is $131,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,000.00 and $154,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone software engineer?

A Drone Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains the software that controls drones, including flight control algorithms, navigation systems, and communication protocols. They work with programming languages like C++, Python, and ROS to ensure autonomous or semi-autonomous drone operations. Their role may also involve integrating sensors, optimizing performance, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a drone software engineer?

Drone Software Engineers typically spend their days designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software that enables drones to perform tasks such as flight control, navigation, and data processing. You might work on integrating sensors, optimizing real-time algorithms, or troubleshooting issues during test flights. Collaboration with hardware engineers, data analysts, and QA testers is common to ensure the seamless operation of the drone systems. You may also participate in code reviews, contribute to project planning, and stay updated with the latest advancements in drone technology to continuously improve software performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the drone software engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Software Engineer, you need expertise in software development, robotics, embedded systems, and a solid background in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with programming languages such as C++, Python, ROS (Robot Operating System), and tools for flight control or simulation is often required, along with knowledge of relevant industry certifications like Part 107 (for commercial drone operations). Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These qualifications are essential for developing robust, reliable drone software that operates safely and efficiently in real-world environments.

How to become a drone software engineer?

To become a drone software engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, robotics, or a related field, along with experience in programming languages such as C++ or Python. Knowledge of embedded systems, drone hardware, and flight control algorithms is essential, and familiarity with development tools like ROS or PX4 can be beneficial. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or personal projects involving drone software development can also improve job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Software Engineer jobs in Kansas?

For Drone Software Engineer jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Software Engineer jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Software Engineer jobs in Kansas are:

Drone Software Engineer jobs near you

Drone Imaging Agronomy Internship (January 2027-Aug 2027)

Manhattan, KS • On-site

Surepoint Group
See more jobs at Surepoint Groupexternal

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Full-time, Internship

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Position: Drone Imaging Agronomy Intern
Employment Type: Internship
Employment Class: Non-Exempt
Supervisor: Product Information Lead
Job Summary
SurePoint Ag Systems is seeking a junior or senior-level student pursuing a degree in Agronomy, Precision Agriculture, Agricultural Technology, Agricultural Systems Management, or a related field to join our team as a Drone Imaging Agronomy Intern. This internship provides hands-on experience with drone imagery, crop analysis, precision agriculture technologies, and planter performance evaluation. The position is based in Manhattan, Kansas. Remote work is possible during the Spring 2027 semester, followed by a full-time summer field season.
Key Responsibilities
  • Obtain FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification.
  • Assist and execute drone flight planning, field imagery collection, and data management.
  • Scout fields and document crop growth stages, stand establishment, and field conditions.
  • Collect and analyze imagery using Sentera FieldAgent and related tools.
  • Compare field imagery, agronomic observations, and planter performance data from John Deere Operations Center.
  • Evaluate the performance of SurePoint Ag planter technology systems and other planter technologies.
  • Create reports, presentations, and summaries of field findings.
  • Support the development of repeatable field data collection and analysis processes.

Required Qualifications
  • Junior or senior-level student pursuing a degree in Agronomy, Precision Agriculture, Agricultural Technology, Agricultural Systems Management, or a related field.
  • Interest in agronomy, precision agriculture, crop production, and emerging technologies.
  • Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
  • Ability to travel and work independently in outdoor environments.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Experience with drones, GIS, mapping, imagery analysis, or precision agriculture technologies is preferred.

Work Environment & Travel
  • Based in Manhattan, Kansas, with the possibility of remote work during the Spring 2027 semester.
  • Spring 2027 semester, January-May: approximately 15 hours per week.
  • Summer 2027, May-August: full-time internship.
  • Travel to research, cooperator, and customer fields throughout the region may be required.

This position will require approximately 50% travel during summer months. Most travel will be within 250 miles of Manhattan, KS.
What You'll Gain
  • Hands-on experience with drone technology, imagery analytics, and precision agriculture tools.
  • Exposure to agronomic research and planter performance evaluation.
  • Training on Sentera FieldAgent and John Deere Operations Center.
  • Direct involvement in product development, validation, and field performance analysis.

Preferred candidate programs: Kansas State University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Iowa State University, Fort Hays State University, or similar agriculture-focused programs.
About SurePoint Ag Systems
SurePoint Ag Systems develops precision agriculture technology that helps producers farm more efficiently through innovative planting, application, monitoring, and control solutions. Founded in 2007, SurePoint serves customers across North America and internationally while remaining focused on practical innovation, strong customer relationships, and helping growers maximize productivity and profitability. With engineering, software development, testing, and product support teams located in Manhattan, Kansas and Atwood, Kansas, SurePoint continues to advance technology that improves agricultural operations and field performance.

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