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Drone Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Principal CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ... Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) * Successfully led small cross-domain ...

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ... Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) * Successfully led small cross-domain ...

Principal CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ... Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) * Successfully led small cross-domain ...

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ... Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) * Successfully led small cross-domain ...

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ... Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) * Successfully led small cross-domain ...

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ... Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) * Successfully led small cross-domain ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ...

... for drone detection and mitigation. In this role, you will play a key part in developing and ... Troubleshoot and debug complex software issues, from low-level performance to system integration.

... for drone detection and mitigation. In this role, you will play a key part in developing and ... Strong C++ programming skills (modern C++ preferred: C++14/17/20). * Solid experience with ...

Familiarity with software programming languages (e.g. C/C++, Matlab, Python) * Development on embedded platforms (e.g. uBoot, IoT, drone firmware) * Successfully developed cutting edge end-to-end ...

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Drone Software Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$146.3K

$203.7K

How much do drone software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone software engineer in Virginia is $146,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Drone Software Engineer job?

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.

Is drone engineering a good career?

Drone software engineering is a growing field that involves developing control systems, navigation algorithms, and data processing for unmanned aerial vehicles. It offers opportunities in industries such as agriculture, surveillance, and delivery services, often requiring skills in programming, robotics, and systems integration. The field can provide a stable career with increasing demand as drone technology advances.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A drone software engineer can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in programming, and working for top tech companies or in specialized industries like defense or aerospace. High salaries often include bonuses, stock options, and other incentives for senior-level roles or those with unique expertise in drone systems and software development.

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 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.

How much does a drone engineer make?

A drone software engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific skills such as programming, robotics, or sensor integration. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized knowledge can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like defense, agriculture, or delivery services.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Drone Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Drone Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Drone Software Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 70% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,258 per year, or $70.3 per hour.

Principal CNO Software Engineer

Zetier

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Principal CNO Software Engineer

Zetier is seeking Principal CNO Software Engineers to develop operationally critical cyber capabilities. Candidates will demonstrate practical experience designing, developing, and deploying tools intersecting command and control, persistence, and networking.

Required:

  • Highly experienced with low-level programming (C/C++)
  • Experience developing in scripting languages (Python)
  • Highly experienced in systems software development (Linux/Windows kernel drivers)
  • Successfully developed cutting edge end-to-end cyber solutions
  • Effective communication with customers and teammates
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance

Desired:

  • Experience working in networking (802.11ac, Zigbee, GSM, SATCOM, SDN, UHF/VHF, 5g)
  • Integration with standard system libraries (POSIX, WIN32 API)
  • Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT)
  • Reverse engineering experience (gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro)
  • Familiar reading assembly / compiled programs (x86, x64, ARM)
  • Securely implemented cryptographic primitives (AES-GCM, SHA256, ECDSA)
  • Developed/patched version control software itself (git, svn, mercurial)
  • Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS)
  • Successfully led small cross-domain development teams
  • Active U.S. security clearance

Zetier is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis protected by law. All employment is decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business need.